Good design and planning are key to any successful home building or renovation project. Any extra time spent on the planning will save you in time loss and money throughout the construction phase. After getting a general understanding of the regulations of building it is important to understand your goal. Knowing your “why” will get you through the rough times – and there will be issues with every good plan… no matter what.

When thinking about design you should be thinking about four key elements:

1. Function

Understanding your “Why” purpose of your building project. Knowing your long term goals or short term goals will save your quick update and/or flip? Always consider the project benefits and weather it will serve you financially? Know that there are different ways to achieve the end result. Considering hiring a professional to flush out your wants, needs and ideas.

2. Form

Mass and shape define form. Mass refers to the volume defined by a structure relative to its surroundings. Mass can be controlled by your surroundings, cost and local regulations. Shape is the composition and complexity of the surface planes. Shape can be controlled by cost and the materials proposed.
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3. Materials

Both exterior and interior building materials should be chosen based on upon their suitability for the building type, durability, impact on the environment, climatic conditions, code, cost, availability, character of the established design.

4. Cost

Do your home work…

Establishing a good budget for securing proper financing will help define that overall design. Solidifying your cost and design will help through your next steps and will give you a clear picture to reaching your overall goal. Know who you are hiring and always get a contract with a competitive quote… this will help support your budget, and minimize changes and hidden expenses. Establishing a time line.

When to get help?

If you have been collecting articles and magazines but don’t know how to put those ideas on paper or if you know little about construction, then search for help from a professional designer. Most clients have problems visualizing 2D drawings, so when working with a professional they can simplify the design for process and give you a better view into your ideas by using 3D. It is always easier and cheaper to change your mind on paper then half way through your building project. Keep in mind that you may also require the assistance of engineers or specialists depending on your local permit requirements or complexity of project.

Note:

As a suggestion – always allow for room in the budget for a professional to ensure that you are covered if and when a change occurs and they do… retain the services of an engineer.

When building remember to

Prepare, Plan, Educate, and Communicate.