6 WAYS WE SAVED IN THE CHARACTER SEMI RENOVATION (AND HOW YOU CAN TOO)
Mention you're planning a renovation and suddenly everyone's got a budget blowout horror story to share.
Reality check: this doesn't have to be your narrative!
We managed to save thousands on our Character Semi reno by making clever design decisions that didn't compromise on style, impact or character. Here's exactly how we did it (and how you can too).
WE WORKED WITh THE EXISTING FOOTPRINT
Why it works: More space usually means more dollars. Before you extend, ask yourself: Can we make the space we already have work harder?
How we did it: We reshuffled the layout instead of extending. A redundant doorway became a cosy dining nook, while new French doors linked the kitchen to the alfresco. Suddenly, the home felt lighter, more connected and far more liveable.
Steal this: Think smarter, not bigger. A clever floorplan can completely transform the way your home looks, feels and functions, while saving you a fortune.
BEFORE - Kitchen & Dining
AFTER - Kitchen & Dining
2. EMBRACED THE ORIGINAL CHARACTER
Why it works: Working with a home’s quirks rather saves money, reduces waste and gives your reno instant soul.
How we did it: We let the original details shine. Wonky walls were patched, not perfected, while the fireplace, skirting boards, archways and ceiling rose were lovingly restored. We sanded and whitewashed the original floorboards, then used complementary Embelton Flooring only where new boards were needed. We introduced a tiled transition and repeated tones to tie old and new together—no tricky matching required.
And if the original feature was beyond repair? We applied a little concealer rather than demolishing and disposing. On the front porch, we laid new tiles directly over the existing tiled surface, avoiding demolition altogether. It saved time, reduced waste and transformed the entrance into a space that now makes a beautiful first impression.
Steal this: Before you reach for that jackhammer, ask yourself: Can we repair it, restore it or work around it? Perfectly imperfect is often cheaper and always more interesting.
3. PLANNED SERVICES EARLY
Why it works: Plumbing and electrical changes can quickly blow a renovation budget, especially in older homes. Plan both early and work with what you’ve got when you can.
BEFORE - Main Bathroom
AFTER - Main Bathroom
How we did it: We reworked the bathroom plumbing to fit our client’s must-have bath moment, installing the stunning Kado Lux freestanding bath from Reece. We also locked in the electrical plan early, concealing new wiring behind the built-in wardrobes instead of cutting into (and repairing) the rendered brick walls.
Steal this: Keep plumbing within existing wet areas, finalise your electrical plan before construction and brief your trades early. Smart service planning can save thousands.
4. MADE EVERY SPACE EARN ITS KEEP
Why it works: Smart design is about making every square metre work hard. Multi-purpose features maximise functionality without increasing your budget.
How we did it: That gorgeous new dining nook off the kitchen? It’s also a clever storage solution, thanks to Arte Porta custom cabinetry by Carrera tucked discreetly beneath the bench seat. Outside, James Hardie cladding transforms the neglected shed, creating a pretty outlook from the kitchen for a space that functions as a hardworking home office, alfresco kitchen and storage zone. Beside it, the curved brick planter doubles as extra seating.
Steal this: If something can do two jobs, let it!
5. LET STYLING DO THE HEAVY LIFTING
Why it works: Not every transformation needs a sledgehammer. Paint, furniture, lighting and window furnishings can completely change the feel of a home for a fraction of the cost of structural work.
How we did it: We focused our budget where it counted, then elevated the rest with thoughtful styling. Beautiful window furnishings from DIY Blinds, carefully chosen pieces from Ellison Studios and Few and Far (all purchased with serious savings thanks to our Dream Discount Card) helped create a polished, high-end look without overspending.
Steal this: Style first, build last and always have your eagle eye out for discounts. Honestly, your Dream Discount Card is your best friend throughout your renovation.
6. REPEATED FINISHES THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE
Why it works: Repeating finishes saves money, reduces waste and makes everything feel calm and cohesive.
How we did it: We repeated key finishes throughout the home, using the same beautiful rose gold Reece tapware across the kitchen, bathroom and laundry. Amber’s Rosso Verona Tumbled feature tiles also make multiple appearances, at the front entrance, in the bathroom, as the threshold between the old and new flooring, and again in the backyard shed, creating a subtle thread that ties every space together.
Steal this: Repeating colours, materials and finishes is one of the easiest ways to create a home that feels thoughtful, cohesive and effortlessly high-end.
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