Renovating or extending your home can be an exciting transformation—but unexpected costs can quickly add up. Architect shares most common unaccounted for costs - from VAT on construction, specialist insurance, and higher energy bills to hidden structural issues and essential surveys, many homeowners underestimate their budgets. At studio elle architecture, we guide clients through the renovation process to ensure financial clarity and avoid costly surprises. Discover the five most overlooked renovation costs and how to plan ahead for a smooth, stress-free project.

The question of whether to renovate or relocate is one we hear often at studio elle architecture in areas like Reigate, Wimbledon, Surrey, and even the stunning Shropshire Hills. It’s a complex dilemma, one that involves both emotional and financial considerations. As a design studio known for creating unique, high-end homes across the South-West, we’ve guided many clients in making this important decision.

Renovating a period home is a rewarding journey that marries the charm of original and often quirky features with the comforts and aesthetic of contemporary living. At Studio Elle Architecture, we specialise in guiding homeowners through the process of renovating heritage homes, ensuring that each period renovation respects the property's heritage while navigating the often complex process of design, planning, and cost considerations.

Period Homes – whether Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian – each possess unique architectural opportunities as well as challenges. Let’s start by looking at the broader picture with key planning considerations: