ForLook Interior Design

According to a recent survey, 91% of homeowners who wanted to move house this year have called off their plan for a while - many of them have decided to improve their current home instead..

The most common reason to move house is the need for more space. Luckily, the government regulations regarding “permitted developments” (those that do not require planning permission) are being revised. This should make it easier to build an extension, convert a loft or extend a roof space. More about these changes>>

Even if you can’t or don’t need or don’t want to add extra living space to your home – redecorating now could make good financial sense. Given the credit crunch, you can find more bargains in the shops and you can find more reliable builders who charge reasonably. So this is the ideal time to remodel your kitchen or bathroom; open up spaces; lay down new floors; finish off the garden etc. However, if you do want to move soon, think about the amount you’ll need to spend on these projects and only choose decor styles that that are liked by most people i.e. don’t do anything too personal, extreme, avant-garde, eccentric or expensive!

Whether or not you want to sell, consider environmental factors - choose sustainable materials and try to be as natural and green as possible. Besides bamboo, there are now many natural and man-made products that are environmentally friendly yet still look modern (even high tech) – in other words a green home no longer has to look like a hippy’s pad! We’ll write more about this subject too in a separate post.

Finally, when you remodel your home - make sure your home insurance covers you for such works. Many of our clients have been affected by this issue. For example, if the builders’ tools get stolen from your premises, it is your responsibility.  Many insurers insist that you have to be living in the property whilst the remodelling takes place - others won’t cover you at all. Do call them before you start any work. Some might increase your premiums - just find a cheaper insurance policy on one of the online comparison sites. Also, before taking them on, confirm with the builders that they have indemnity insurance – if not, should they have an accident, you’ll be liable.

If you’re very affected by the credit-crunch, you could just redecorate or refresh your home yourself. This shouldn’t cost a fortune - here are a few cheap decorating ideas>>