Sequencing a project

Planning Oxford Gardens

Sequencing a Project

You can save yourself a lot of time and money by having a proper plan of action in place. In this lesson, I will share with you the process I follow every time I undertake a new project.

#### Step One

Working from an estate agent's floor plans can be a good first step, but as they aren't strictly to scale, it'll be difficult to give yourself the full picture. I would really recommend getting the property surveyed very early on, as this will provide you with accurate floor plans and can help flag any major issues or obstacles you need to be aware of.

#### Step Two

Once you have the proper floor plans, this is when you can experiment with layout ideas using tracing paper. It's good to try out as many variations as you can to ensure your final iteration is the very best it can be.

#### Step Three

If you are doing major works, an architect is necessary to ensure everything is structurally sound. Depending on your budget, you can either ask for their assistance earlier on in reimagining the space, or you can bring them in slightly later to assess the viability of your ideas.

#### Step Four

Finalise the exact plans with your architect, and iron out the finer details. This should include as much information as possible - for example, dimensions of cupboards, placement of power sockets, bathroom layouts, lighting schemes. Being as specific as you can will ensure you get the most accurate picture of exactly how much the project will cost.

#### Step Five

The next stage is going to tender, which is where you offer the job of enacting the plans to various contractors, who will pitch for it by putting together a price package or quote for doing the work and then you choose the best fit.

#### Step Six

I would recommend obtaining a very detailed breakdown of the quote you receive, as this will help you to remove things if you're over budget or spot things that have been missed out. It may be that you go through several revisions until you land on the final plan. At this stage it is also worth ironing out your own budget for decorating and furnishing. I can't stress enough how important it is to get to a place where you are totally informed and completely comfortable with exactly how much your project is going to cost - you will be extremely grateful later down the line.