Renovation and redecoration is more popular than ever in India amidst gradually increasing wages, with the Times of India reporting that there are over 50,000 home design professionals working in the country. The housing market is continuing to grow, and Money Control have reported that Bangalore’s thriving economy is driving this with newly wealthy professionals looking to invest and renovate in luxury properties. What more, the green revolution is driving more people to make the most of older properties rather than increasing their carbon footprint on new ones.
When it comes to apartments, the congested nature of the city and the fight for space means that people are are getting creative when planning their dream renovations. There are so many ways to find inspiration when you’re looking to make your vision a reality.
Planning your improvements
Before you go about planning your renovations, have a good think about whether it needs it. Renovation and redecoration is often at the forefront of Bangaluru’s near 10 million Hindus, as Diwali often prompts renovation. The eagerness for many to make changes around the home shows that homes often need renovation to stay fresh, and identifying when that change is needed is the first step.
Every good home improvement project needs a good plan behind it. Even a splash of paint can become a headache if not properly planned. When looking to bring creativity into the home, consider what exactly it is you are trying to achieve. Do you want a comfortable, warm space? Or to design an open, creativity-inspiring area? Or perhaps you’re looking towards a family, and need a stimulating space for kids? Have a good think about what you’re trying to achieve, not just what looks good, and turn your attention to style mags and websites for help on firming up that vision.
Planning and budgeting
When you have an idea of what you want your home to look like, it’s time to turn to creating a technical plan and budget for your improvements. By using a well thought out budget, you can establish the level of materials you need and have the opportunity to buy ahead of time. Often, buying in bulk will reduce the overall cost of your home redesign, even if it needs to be taken over month. Allow for a surplus, too. This is important as the materials in your home might take on elements like paint better than other, and mistakes do happen. You don’t want to run out of money and be forced to take expensive credit, or end up being unable to finish your renovations and end up stuck with a half finished project.
As highlighted above, green is very much in. A great way to cut costs is through upcycling. The basic skills needed to renovate individual construction materials or design elements is available online and the equipment to do it in general stores. You can also sell your old furniture if you bring in any new items.
Doing the work itself
With a plan in hand and a proper budget, it falls to actually completing the work. Redecoration on your own, or with friends, can be difficult, especially when done around work. Consider taking leave from work for a period to complete your renovations. If that’s not possible, act in an organized manner. Treat the work like a job, and organize your time to get the most done in the shortest space of time (but don’t be afraid to make it fun – American research aggregator Scientific American report that music makes you work harder). If you’re looking at new plumbing, electrical fittings or any other utility-related tasks, don’t attempt to do the work if you’re not qualified or don’t have the right equipment.
Home renovations are exciting, revitalizing and bring a breath of fresh air into the home. Get it right the first time by planning, budgeting and working hard to make your vision a reality.
