Tools Down: Lessons from a Renovation
Renovating a house, whilst exciting, is also incredibly daunting. My renovation experience to date has been limited to watching episodes of The Block. Can an entire laundry and bathroom really be built in a week?
The Agency Project Manager inside me said yes, stay on point and push the project to completion. The Creative inside me said no way, this will stifle the desired outcome.
After beginning my own renovation process, Here are some lessons I have learnt, and what they mean in the realm of business:
The power of collaboration
There are so many different skill sets required for a large renovation project from design through to execution. I found that the architect proved pivotal; not only in turning the concept into reality, but acting as conduit for all the other stakeholders involved. From surveyors to engineers, builders and material suppliers, at times I was unaware of not only who needed to be involved, but who was the best fit for the project. Ultimately having trust and good relationships with these key suppliers is essential.
Have a clear vision
Having a clear vision was key to the overall result but in minimising costs. Communicating this via a thorough brief (complete with mood boards) was also an important step in realising the vision.
Details matter
Every detail of the house needs to be identified and documented. From the position of the powerpoints, to the height of a kitchen bench. This is important to ensure that your vision is realised, the project adheres to budget, is on schedule and stakeholders have a clear idea of what's expected of them.
Do a walk through (virtual)
Take a journey through the space, walk through every room. Project plans can be projected onto the floor or you can walk through the plans via virtual reality. This gives you the best idea of what it will be like living in your new abode, how much space there is and its functionality. Again, refer to lessons 1 & 2 and collaborate on this process to ensure all stakeholders have considered all perspectives and agree on the clear vision.
Source: @oliverwearing tweeted: To anyone who has ever killed a supermarket herb plant: I'm afraid yours died so that our basil overlord could reign supreme.
Future orientated
Think about what you need from the space today but also tomorrow. Technology and opportunities change so rapidly you need to plan for what you think may need in the foreseeable future. Ask yourself, if this is scalable for expansion or may inhibit a future pivot.
The Block is a TV show not an insight into renovating.
This is debatable. Your vision will be challenged, you can't cut corners and lastly, contestants' paint dries as slowly as every other mere mortal home renovator.
However, the notion of cramming a major renovation project into a single week proved realistic and achievable, as did the project management juggle and achieving my creative vision.