A focus on new builds and extensions, and how to best renovate your property.

Hello

In theory, spring has officially started and as this week has progressed I'm becoming more convinced it's true! The odd moments of sunshine have become occasional warm, dry days, so here's hoping it continues and the days keep getting brighter as they get longer.

In the spirit of a seasonal refresh, this month we are focusing on new builds and extensions, and how to best renovate your property. But before we do I have a little favour to ask you....

We're doing some research for a new service we're developing and would love your help. Please could you give us five words that describe your dream home? Simply click this linkto fill out our response form. There are a few additional questions included, which provide useful context to your response: if you are happy to answer those too we'd be really grateful. It should only take 2 mins - there is no need to overthink your answers! Thank you in advance. 

From bricks to a building 

In our renovation and home build series, we have progressed from architectural drawings to the build stage. We reached out to our friends at Adam Hurst Construction for their advice. They are a fantastic local building company we've worked with many times, who consistently produce beautifully crafted homes that are a joy to furnish. With Adam’s guidance we have put together key things to consider and questions to ask when selecting your building company.

Getting the price right!

Firstly, it is important to consider a few different building companies before making your decision on whose services you will engage. Aim to obtain three to four quotes before starting your project, and ensure each company has strong reviews to help properly vet your potential construction partner. A personal recommendation is even better where possible. When requesting prices, keep the brief consistent so quotes can be accurately compared. It is also important to look beyond the headline price - consider the size and structure of the team being offered. Is the company made up of a comprehensive team of specialists, or is it a couple of builders who rely heavily on subcontractors for elements such as roofing, plastering, plumbing and electrics?

In regard to pricing, builders will usually allow a PC sum (set allowance) for certain items; however, there are likely to be changes to this cost if you opt for alternative or more premium finishes. It is important to understand how these specification changes and associated cost variations will be managed and communicated by your builder. Ideally adjustments are agreed in advance, documented formally, and reflected clearly within updated costings.

Equally important from a financial perspective, is having a full understanding of the payment schedule before work begins. You don't want an unexpected bill to come through at any point! Remember, you are making a significant financial investment, whether you are creating your dream home or adapting an existing property to better suit your family’s needs and lifestyle. Ensuring your investment is in reliable, transparent and well-organised hands will provide peace of mind throughout the project.

Communication is key

You also need to consider how your builder plans to communicate throughout the project. Ask how updates will be shared and who your main point of contact will be during the work. If a dedicated site manager is being assigned, establish how many projects they are overseeing and how much time they will realistically spend on yours each week, including how frequently they will be on site. It is equally important to understand whether there is an office team supporting the site staff and if not how efficiently information is passed on.

You should also clarify how much notice you will be given when key decisions are required. At some stage, you will need to make important choices around the fixtures and fittings, such as skirting boards, doors, sockets, switches and radiators. While these elements are often viewed by builders as purely technical components, they play a significant role in shaping the aesthetic and styling of your home. These decisions should never be rushed, so it is vital to know when your builder expects this information to be provided. This is often where working with an interior designer during the build stage becomes invaluable, as it ensures design-led decisions are made thoughtfully and within the correct timeframe.

Helping things run smoothly

It is inevitable that there will be hiccups along the way; projects can become stressful, decision fatigue can set in, and it can feel overwhelming having tradespeople in your home (and headspace!) for extended periods of time. Choosing trades who are efficient, approachable and considerate is key, as well as those who take pride in leaving the site clean and tidy at the end of each day. The very best tradespeople will also remain mindful of your neighbours and their properties. 

That said, there is a degree of 'quid pro quo'. Being welcoming, taking an interest, and showing kindness to those working in your home goes a long way. It is worth building a small allowance into your budget for teas, coffees, biscuits, and perhaps the occasional bacon sandwich! These gestures may seem minor but, fostering goodwill on a site often leads to a more positive working environment, stronger communication, and a team that is more willing to be flexible and accommodating when changes arise. 

Finally, make sure you clearly understand the snagging process at the end of the project and confirm your builder will return to rectify any minor defects or outstanding issues. It is common practice to withhold a percentage of the contract value until snagging is complete. Typically, this is around 5% retained during the build, with a further 2.5% sometimes held for up to 12 months after completion, to ensure any later issues are properly resolved. 

Continuing this series, next month we'll be covering helpful hints and tips regarding insurance during and after your build project. Not very sexy stuff but important nontheless!

We're also off to London Design Week later in the month so will be bringing you a favour of what's new in interiors for 2026... We can't wait to have a day out and come back inspired for all the new projects we've got lined up this spring!

Until then... let's pray for sunshine, peace and brighter days.  

 
Best wishes
Becci x 

P.S. Know someone who'd love these design insights? Please share – we love welcoming new friends to our design community!