Embarking on a new build can be a tad overwhelming. There are endless decisions to be made and expert lingo to learn. It’s exciting and daunting all at once – a fact Kyal and I know well.
Whether you’re gearing up to create your dream home or a stepping stone project, the key to a smooth building process lies in strong planning. But where do you even begin? Take a deep breath and we’ll break it down for you.
Kyal and Kara’s best tips for your new build home
Create a ‘needs vs want’ list
It’s easy to get swept up in glossy inspiration images and floor plans that boast all the bells and whistles. A ‘need vs want’ list will cut through the noise and help you prioritise.
Think of it as a more realistic version of a ‘wishlist’. Start by asking, “What do I need to make my home function well, day in and day out?’ This might be a set number of bedrooms, a study nook or a kitchen with plentiful bench space
Dare to dream
Next, allow yourself to dream a little. What would make your home feel truly special to you? Perhaps it’s a fireplace in the living room, a freestanding bathtub, a butler’s pantry or underfloor heating. These should be listed as ‘wants’.
You can even number these in order of priority. Alongside your list of needs, this will help you discern what’s essential from what’s nice to have and will be your reference point throughout the design and building stages. This step really helps when it comes time to making budget-conscious decisions (and trust me, they will come).
Know your limits
Your budget will shape every decision you make, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right. Rather than jumping straight into quotes, take a step back and consider your overall spend. Ask yourself, ‘What am I comfortable investing in this project?’
Remember to factor in extras for your approvals, driveway, fencing and landscaping. Always set aside a 10 to 15 per cent contingency as a buffer for unexpected costs. Building a new home is a big undertaking, but with a well-considered budget, you’ll be much more in control.
Consult a professional
You don’t need everything figured out before consulting a professional. In fact, the earlier you do, the better. Whether it’s an architect, building designer, interior designer or builder, getting the right people involved from the beginning ensures your ideas are realistic, achievable, and tailored to your lifestyle.
A good professional will look beyond want you want and explore how you’d like to live within the home. They’ll consider things like orientation, light, airflow and how the home will evolve as your needs change. They can also assist in navigating council requirements and approvals, which can otherwise feel like a maze.
Test the waters
If you’re unsure where to start, a one-off consultation is a great low-commitment option. It gives you the chance to ask questions and get a feel for whether a professional is the right fit for you and your project. After all, you’re not just building a house – you’re also building a relationship that will make or break the success of your home.
While new builds can be daunting, starting the process with strong foundations will set you up for a smoother, more rewarding journey.
Create a moodboard
A mood board is more than just a collection of pretty pictures. It is a visual expression of how you want your home to feel. Start collecting images that spark an emotional connection, whether it’s a colour palette, a clever kitchen layout or the texture of a stone.
Remember, you can look beyond interiors – nature, travel and fashion can all help inspire your aesthetic. Once you’ve compiled a range of images, you may start to notice a pattern in styles and tones you are drawn to. This will help communicate your overall vision when it comes time to sit down with your designer or builder.
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