Rising Costs, Smarter Choices: Where to Spend (and Where to Save) When Renovating
Unfortunately, since COVID, building costs have continued to soar. Materials, trades, lead times — it’s all stretched. And if you’re planning a renovation or new build, you’re likely feeling it.
But even when budgets are tight, my advice stays the same:
It’s better to leave something out than to fill it with something cheap that doesn’t belong.
You don’t have to do everything. You just have to do the right things — thoughtfully, and with purpose.
Section 1: Spend Well on the Things That Matter Most
Photo by Elise Scott
These are the pieces that elevate a home — not because they’re expensive, but because they’re intentional.
Statement lighting — Creates mood, anchors a room, and often becomes the design focal point.
Natural stone — Even in small doses, it adds calm, depth, and timeless quality.
Beautiful tiles — Texture and tone make all the difference to how a space feels and ages.
Well-designed, crafted joinery — Especially in kitchens, media walls, and mudrooms — areas where function and form must work hard together.
“Quality in the right places will quietly carry the whole home.”
Section 2: Save Where It Won’t Be Felt
Photo by Suzi Appel
Being budget-conscious doesn’t mean compromising on design — it means being strategic.
Laminate in the laundry — Looks great, costs far less than 2-pac, and does its job.
Simpler cabinetry in wardrobes and utility areas
Mid-range tapware and fixtures — You don’t always need the Lamborghini. Often, a Mazda or Volvo will do — solid, functional, and still stylish.
Section 3: Clarity Starts With a Transparent Budget
If you want to stay in control, start with clarity.
Ask for an itemised quote. A good builder will have a clear methodology behind every line. If a number feels vague, ask.
Engage cost guidance early. Ask your designer or architect to bring in a builder or quantity surveyor during concept planning. Even a ballpark range helps anchor your expectations.
Be upfront about your budget. We’re not here to max it out. If there’s a way to come in under, we will — but only if we know what you’re working with from day one.
“Early transparency means better decisions, fewer surprises, and a smoother process.”
Conclusion: Buy Once, Buy Well
Photo by Elise Scott
If the budget won’t stretch for the right piece now, don’t rush to fill the gap.
Leave it open. Let it come later.
Do fewer things — but do them properly.
Some of the most beautiful homes I’ve worked on didn’t try to do everything at once.
They focused on the core feelings: calm, flow, clarity — and the rest followed.