The Decision
After 10 years, two kids, three cats and my mum living with us, we decided last year to renovate our current home over the option to relocate. The main reason being, we LOVE our neighbourhood! We have the convenience of the boys school, shops, parks and public transport all within a short walk.
Since mid last year it has been endless meetings with a building company to ensure we maximise our home and lifestyle by opening up shared spaces downstairs, and giving our family new and dedicated spaces of their own.
Nearly a year down the track, our home is about to become a construction site, and we will be staying throughout the build. Most people would run in fear, and I assure you there will be dust-filled days when I will want to do the same, however, we will be onsite during the construction of an additional first floor and removal of walls on the ground floor to create an open-plan feel and better flow to our deck - more in keeping with our lifestyle.
Like a crazy woman who doesn't have enough on her plate, I will be documenting the construction and share the transformation of our home into a more family-friendly space that suits all our needs. I have always seen the potential of this house to work and flow better to make the most of its character and 'good bones'.
My one observation of the pre-planning stage so far is just how loooooong everything takes. For good reason, I am told, so as not to rush what is a fairly HUGE financial and emotional undertaking for any family. It's given us the time to consider and reconsider things we really need over the things you want, which can run a budget over and then some!
Hubby and I have always been conscious of undertaking a quality yet financially sensible renovation that suits our family, one that is reflective of who we are and not just another designer space that guests are afraid to relax in.
One of the things we love about owning our own home is opening it to our family and friends and creating memories - we have always had an open door policy and we hope our new home continues to feel homely and welcoming.
Since mid last year it has been endless meetings with a building company to ensure we maximise our home and lifestyle by opening up shared spaces downstairs, and giving our family new and dedicated spaces of their own.
Nearly a year down the track, our home is about to become a construction site, and we will be staying throughout the build. Most people would run in fear, and I assure you there will be dust-filled days when I will want to do the same, however, we will be onsite during the construction of an additional first floor and removal of walls on the ground floor to create an open-plan feel and better flow to our deck - more in keeping with our lifestyle.
Like a crazy woman who doesn't have enough on her plate, I will be documenting the construction and share the transformation of our home into a more family-friendly space that suits all our needs. I have always seen the potential of this house to work and flow better to make the most of its character and 'good bones'.
My one observation of the pre-planning stage so far is just how loooooong everything takes. For good reason, I am told, so as not to rush what is a fairly HUGE financial and emotional undertaking for any family. It's given us the time to consider and reconsider things we really need over the things you want, which can run a budget over and then some!
Hubby and I have always been conscious of undertaking a quality yet financially sensible renovation that suits our family, one that is reflective of who we are and not just another designer space that guests are afraid to relax in.
One of the things we love about owning our own home is opening it to our family and friends and creating memories - we have always had an open door policy and we hope our new home continues to feel homely and welcoming.
images: Shelley Stephens for Little Elm House