I recently saw an episode of Insight about the construction industry. In the episode it was reported that costs have gone up by 40%. Add in the lack of trade labour and regulation issues which all have a significant impact on the architecture, building and interior design industry as well as you. So, if you can’t afford to renovate now, here’s what to do instead.
Average interior design project lead time
Some people don’t realise how long it takes to complete an architecture, building or interior design project.
So let me give you the timings of a real life example. I started working on my Glen Iris project in August 2022.
The design and specifications stage on average takes 4 months. Therefore, it was November 2022 when we engaged the builder to provide a quote based on the design documents I developed.
There is a lead time for the builder to get project ready. For example, contract negotiation and confirmation.
A builder may do his own drawings, ordering and receiving specified items (some of which may also have a long time). As well as manufacturing of all cabinetry.
So the actual build on my Glen Iris project didn’t start until winter 2023. For this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, laundry, kitchen renovation project the build took 3 months and we did the final walk through (link) in November 2023.
Once the build was complete, I then specified furniture for my client so the project actually ended March 2024.
These timings are not unusual and yes some smaller projects take less time. But what many clients don’t realise is the time for an interior designer to do their work, which is about 4 months.
The time to find and engage a builder, followed by the lead time the builder needs to get project ready and then the time to complete the project which varies depending on scope.
Then there’s time for a walk through, and touch ups before the job is considered complete.
What to do instead
While you wait for the economy to shift, for example for interest rates to come down. Or if you need more time to save or access funds, then spend time researching and planning.
Research to find the right people for your project from drafts people, builders to interior designers.
Actually, engage a drafts person or interior designer to do the initial stage of the project, that is design and specifications.
So that when you’re ready you have all the design documents to give your builder to provide an accurate quotation.
Plan what you’ll do or where you’ll stay if you must leave the premises. There is a lot of work that needs to be done BEFORE the actual build so if you want to renovate in 2025 then start planning, researching and engage your interior designer in 2024.
Another thing to bear in mind if you can’t afford to renovate right now is that prices are not going to drop by much. There are still supply and demand issues impacting suppliers. So best to get the ball rolling as your interior designer can help you save money on suitable alternatives.
