Designing the right home for your family’s needs is easy with these tips from Birdblack Design’s Sarah Nolen.
| Plan and be organised |
| Organise your thoughts before you start the project. Prepare a detailed wish list of everything you want as a starting point. Avoid trends and think about the style you want for your home – what type of environment do you want to create? This will result in a home full of continuity that won’t tire over time. |
| Don't overlook the detail |
| When designing your dream home, write down every little pet hate you’ve ever had in previous places you have lived and adjust your design to solve these. Consider colour and material type, a lighting plan and storage solutions as these little details are going to affect how you live your life. |
| Prioritise kitchens, living rooms and entertaining areas |
| Areas such as kitchens, living rooms and outdoor entertaining spaces are areas that ooze comfort, luxury and lifestyle. Create these spaces to suit your own lifestyle, be it a house full of kids or a couple who love to entertain. |
| Select a designer and builder carefully |
| It is so important to know who you are working with. Check past project references, contact previous clients, and browse through their portfolios. Meet with both the designer and builder and establish a relationship with them before deciding anything. It is a long process and it is important to determine whether or not you will work well together. |