The more that’ s decided on paper, the calmer the site becomes.”

growing family’ or‘ We want to be four suburbs further.’ Then they go to sell and they’ ve gobbled up so much of their profit in that extra layer of expense that probably wasn’ t needed.”

Create a master plan

One of the easiest ways for renovation budgets to blow out is unforeseen structural costs. Interior designer and founder of Reset-Co Kate Vale says a lot of that can be forecast if you start with a strong plan.“ Budgets, layouts, structural decisions and priorities must be properly resolved before work begins

– not during,” she explains.“ The more that’ s decided on paper, the calmer the site becomes. Choosing finishes, setting budgets and staying on track becomes far more manageable when they’ re anchored to a bigger plan, rather than being made reactively as issues arise.”

Kate cautions against following trends in colour schemes, instead choosing palettes that suit the home, your personality and the environment.“ I always ask clients to do a Pinterest board so I can see what they like and how cohesive it is,” she says.

One step at a time

There’ s a good chance you’ re desperate to roll up your sleeves and dive into updating every corner of your house, but interior designer and founder of Kurved By Design, Kellie Richardson, says you should be methodical.

“ What is the most important area of concern that needs to be fixed first?” she asks.“ Plan areas A, B and C and start ticking off the list so you don’ t get overwhelmed. Don’ t start other projects until you are finished that stage.”

Kellie always suggests her clients look for quick, cheap wins.“ Replacing a vanity and taps or painting a bathtub can lift the area without breaking the bank,” she says.“ Even if you want to renovate fully down the track, doing a few small things that are cost effective will make the space feel more liveable until you’ re ready to do the whole thing.”

Shop smart

When looking for renovation products, think outside the usual stores. While Costco is known for household basics, its range of products for improving the

BARANQ / STOCK. ADOBE. COM

22 | MAY / JUN 2026 COSTCO CONNECTION