In short
Cost is driven mainly by the home’s technical condition, structural alterations, building services and the desired finish. At the start, a realistic investment range is more dependable than a seemingly exact figure.
Answer from practiceWhy a price per square metre says too little
Two homes with the same floor area can be technically worlds apart. One may retain its structure and services; another may need new floors, pipework and layout. A general square-metre rate hides the differences that matter most.
We therefore begin with what must genuinely change. Only when existing condition, intended use and quality level are viewed together does the budget reflect the real project.
The six main cost drivers
In a complete renovation, individual trades are closely connected. A new layout often affects structure, electricity, heating and finishes at the same time.
Strip-out, access and waste removal; Structural work, new floors and stairs; Electricity, water, heating and ventilation; Insulation and energy-performance measures; Kitchen, bathroom and bespoke interiors; Finish level and unforeseen conditions.
Use a range and defined decision points
During orientation, choose a realistic investment range. Major design and technical decisions can then follow in a deliberate order. This reveals where quality is essential, where alternatives exist and which delays would create avoidable cost.
A good estimate is not a static final document. It is a steering tool that becomes more precise as surveys, design and material choices develop.
Preparing for the first conversation
Collect existing drawings, define the main ways you want to use the home and separate essentials from preferences and options. Current photos and examples of the desired quality help us reach the right questions faster.
Our enquiry form brings those essentials together in a few minutes. We can then assess whether the ambition, building and investment range form a coherent starting point.
Start with clarity, not false precision.
An early conversation about scope, risk and investment space prevents a strong design from having to be stripped back later.