Is your renovation idea as viable as you think it is?

The figure in a homeowner's head and the layout they've settled on are rarely either accurate or final.

We explore how to properly stress-test a project before it costs you serious money. We cover how the brief-writing process uncovers what you need, why hand-drawn sketches outperform any online room planner, and how to approach budget conversations honestly from day one.

We also get into planning risk, building regulations, and the unexpected costs that regularly blindside homeowners who haven't done the groundwork. Fire consultants, redundant sewers, and trees in the garden are just some of the hidden factors that can reshape a budget before a spade goes in the ground.

A great design doesn’t just look special it feels special; this episode will help you design the home you’re dreaming off.

"You can tell a great space when you walk into it." — Andrew Dobson

You’ll hear about:

• Why the brief rarely starts clearly
• Using sketches to stress-test ideas
• Hand-drawn sketches versus online tools
• Budget as control, not just aspiration
• Why clients hide their real budget
• Sizing extensions realistically from the outset
• Assessing planning risk early
• Building regulations and fire consultants
• Hidden site constraints adding cost
• When to bring in a QS or cost plan
• Treating the existing house as an asset
• The step-by-step design development process

Connect with Andrew Dobson:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-dobson-architect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andrewdobsonarchitects/

Website - https://www.andrewdobsonarchitects.co.uk/

Connect with us:

Tima Patel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinapatel/

Bart Kolosowski - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartkolosowski/

Produced by Between Tracks - https://www.betweentracks.com/