A Scope of Works: The One Document That Stands Between You and Renovation Chaos
Renovating and New Homes Penelope Herbert Renovating and New Homes Penelope Herbert

A Scope of Works: The One Document That Stands Between You and Renovation Chaos

Here's a scenario I've watched unfold more times than I care to admit. A couple hires a builder. They hire an interior architect. The builder starts. The designer is still drawing. Decisions are needed. Yesterday. The couple panics. Makes choices in haste. The builder charges variations. The designer winces. The budget bleeds.

Now here's the alternative. A very particular, very powerful document. A Scope of Works. And it changes everything.

Read More
The 10 Renovation Mistakes Australians Keep Making — And the Fixes That Actually Work
Renovating and New Homes Penelope J. Herbert Renovating and New Homes Penelope J. Herbert

The 10 Renovation Mistakes Australians Keep Making — And the Fixes That Actually Work

Someone on Reddit asked a question so simple it should have had a simple answer.

"What's the one thing you wish you'd known before getting your first renovation quote?"

It didn't get a simple answer. It got 137 of them — from real Australian homeowners who'd been through the machine and come out the other side wiser, poorer, and in several cases, still fighting with their builder.

I read the whole thread. I responded in the comments. And then I wrote about it here.

Read More
Should You Move Out During Your Adelaide Renovation? Here’s Where to Go (and How Not to Hate It)
Renovating and New Homes Penelope J. Herbert Renovating and New Homes Penelope J. Herbert

Should You Move Out During Your Adelaide Renovation? Here’s Where to Go (and How Not to Hate It)

When staying put is a hard ‘NO’, here’s how to choose between Airbnb, holiday home, friends, granny flat or garden cottage.

Part Two: When Staying Is Madness – Where to Live During Your Renovation

Sometimes the bravest, smartest reno move is to admit: “Nope. We cannot live through this.” Full-gut renovation, no kitchen, no bathroom, asbestos, toddlers, night shift, neurodivergent brains, pets – everyone has a limit.

When your Adelaide reno crosses that line, moving out isn’t defeat. It’s strategy. The key is choosing where to go so you don’t swap dust and noise for cramped, awkward misery. And yes – Don’t Get Ripped Off By Your Reno still applies here, because your budget has to cover both the build and your temporary life.

Read PART ONE : How To Live Through Your Renovation (if you choose to stay in your home)

Read More
What A Good Design and Build Proposal Should Include (so you don’t get ripped off)
Renovating and New Homes Penelope J. Herbert Renovating and New Homes Penelope J. Herbert

What A Good Design and Build Proposal Should Include (so you don’t get ripped off)

A good design–build proposal isn’t just a pretty PDF; it’s a legally useful, line‑by‑line roadmap of what you’re getting, who’s doing it and what it costs.​ If you can’t tell what’s included, what’s excluded and how changes will be handled, you’re not holding a proposal – you’re holding a risk.

Read More

Our blog is a treasure trove of knowledge, filled with valuable insights, expert tips, and insider secrets.

We delve into a wide range of topics that cater to renovators of all levels, from the novice DIYer to the sophisticated homeowner looking to transform their space.

Whether you're in the early planning stages or about to embark on construction, our blog covers it all.

Additionally, we keep you updated on the latest building and renovation techniques, as well as innovative products that can elevate your space to new heights.

We believe that informed clients make the best decisions, which is why we take pride in sharing our knowledge and expertise with you.

Our blog is designed to demystify the interior design and renovation process, making it accessible and understandable for everyone.

So whether you're seeking inspiration, practical advice, or a deeper understanding of the art of renovation, you've come to the right place.

Join us on this exciting journey as we empower you to transform your home into a space that reflects your unique style and personality.