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Before the walls come down or the tiles are set, solid groundwork is essential to any renovation. Pre-reno preparation goes far beyond a simple checklist; it’s the blueprint for a seamless, stress- free transformation. From understanding the household’s unique needs to establishing a realistic budget, every planning step helps sidestep surprises and keeps your vision firmly on track.
A carefully prepared start is the secret to achieving the home you’ve always envisioned — minus the headaches. Here, we dive into one homeowner’s thoughtful pre-reno journey, sharing the must-have checklist and crucial considerations that set the stage for refreshing her 25-year-old HDB flat.
Pre-Renovation Checklist
1) Understand each family member’s needs and lifestyle preferences. Use this as a guideline when designing each room in the home and the types of colours to select for various spaces.
2) Set a realistic budget before marking it up by 10-15% to factor in unforeseen expenses that may crop up during the renovation.
3) Save images of furniture items you want and design styles you like onto your mobile phone.
4) Make a list of the furniture items you plan to keep and decide where each piece will go.
5) Inform neighbours of the renovation schedule, especially days when heavy hacking will take place.
6) Budget for Electrical Rewiring: Set aside extra funds for rewiring if you’re renovating an older flat, especially those over 20 years old. Engage licensed electrical contractors to update circuit breakers, wiring, power sockets, and lighting to ensure safety and longevity.
7) Look Out for Sales and Savings: Keep an eye on sales for furniture and appliances, and consider using partner credit cards to unlock additional discounts.
Living Room Pre-Renovation Checklist
1) Storage: Ensure that there is ample storage space in the living room, especially if you are going for a pared-back minimalist look with a neutral colour palette. To create a seamless look, you may want to conceal storage areas by blending the cabinets into the walls with the use of the same wall covering.
2) Add visual interest to plain walls by incorporating display areas along your cabinets.
3) Ensure your seating arrangement includes a variety of options to comfortably accommodate all ages, from young to old.
4) If the entrance leads directly into the living area, ensure that the shoe rack is hidden from view.
5) A pegboard by the main door, designed for holding bags and coats is functional and stylish.
Kitchen Pre-Renovation Checklist
A well-designed kitchen embraces simplicity without sacrificing functionality. Clean lines and uncluttered surfaces are key, creating a space that feels both open and efficient, even in compact layouts. Neutral colours, such as whites, soft greys, or light wood tones, give a fresh, airy feel and help reflect natural light.
Incorporate Spaces for Appliances: Designate convenient nooks to accommodate handy appliances like a robot cleaner or dishwasher, making them easy to access and store.
Bedroom Pre-Renovation Checklist
The simple, uncluttered design ensures the rooms can easily evolve, making them suitable for any stage, from youth through to adulthood.
Plan Ahead for Murphy Beds and Lighting: Murphy beds often have a wait time of up to three months, so order early. Use this time to consider layered lighting options, creating a flexible, dynamic atmosphere with various light sources.
Toilet Pre-Renovation Checklist
The bathrooms combine accessibility with timeless design. Featuring wide, easy- to-clean tiles that visually expand the space, this setup includes wheelchair access and lifted basin cabinetry for effortless upkeep. By leaving pipes exposed, the design not only saves on cost but also maintains a practical, streamlined look that will stand the test of time.
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