The first step towards creating your dream home is planning. Arm yourself with our simple guide, a notebook, stacks of inspiration and let the fun begin.
1. Create a mood board
If you don’t have a clear style direction, start browsing. Magazines, Pinterest and Instagram are great sources to find an aesthetic which resonates with you. Create a look book of images and sample swatches, or pin your favourite online pics to create a moodboard. Once you’ve found a style you love, start honing in on colours and finishes to develop a palette. Also consider key furniture items, as these can play a significant role in establishing your desired look and feel says Oz Design Furniture buyer Paula Cincotta. “A relaxed comfortable sofa such as the Hamlet can set the scene for a timeless sophisticated coastal interior style. While a finer proportioned sofa that is narrower in the seat and arm width evokes a more contemporary formal feel.”
2. Write a wish list
It’s important your dream home is achievable, so know your budget and plan accordingly. Devise a list of must-haves –the important non-negotiable inclusions and a list of lust haves – the decadent additions which are lovely, but not crucial. A must-have might be a bathtub if you have young children, while a lust-have could be beautiful Moroccan feature tiles. Prioritise your must-haves and shop smart, to see if it’s possible to get the same look for less on certain fittings and fixtures. The money you save can then go towards a few lust items.
3. Assemble your dream team
Ask friends and family if they can recommend an experienced designer or architect. Working with a professional can streamline the design, building approval process and with plans in place, you can start shopping around for a builder. Set-up meetings to find a building team you click with who shares your vision. Good communication is one of the keys to a successful project.
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