TIMELINE TRUTHS
How long could your project take?
It’s a regular question we hear from clients: “So how long do you think will this take?” And it’s a fair question- a renovation is disruptive and you want to know when you can enjoy your beautiful new space. But while we’d love to hand you a neat calendar date, the truth is that every project we work on has its own rhythm. Renovations and builds don’t really run in a straight line from start to finish. There are periods of intense progress, quieter times when behind-the-scenes work happens, and occasionally moments where something unexpected slows the pace. Understanding what’s involved means you can plan with confidence and patience.
Phase 1: The design journey
Before a single wall is touched, the design phase with us sets the tone for everything that follows. From your initial briefing session to the finalised plans, we explore floor plan options, create bespoke joinery designs, source and specify every fixture, fitting and finish of your project, and test ideas against your lifestyle and needs.
It’s a collaborative process and every round of feedback helps bring the design closer to your perfect fit. This stage with us (from design concept through to fully documented drawings and schedules) can take anywhere from 4-8 months, depending on the complexity of the space, how quickly decisions are made and how many revisions are needed. It may feel like the build is still a long way off, but investing time here ensures the rest of the project runs more smoothly and we achieve the best result for you.
Phase 2: Builder pricing & site walkthroughs
Once the design is approved, the next step is to bring builders into the process to provide accurate, detailed pricing. We arrange on-site walkthroughs so they can see the space in person, ask questions, and understand the unique conditions of your property. These site visits allow them to spot potential challenges, confirm measurements and assess access for materials and trade; getting you closer to accurate pricing for your project.
We usually recommend approaching two to three reputable builders for pricing and we will provide you with our recommendations. This helps ensure you have the opportunity to compare quotes and have a couple of options of teams you could work with. We always recommend builders we have worked with prior.
Builders often need 6–8 weeks to prepare detailed proposals, especially if the project is complex. The builders need time to liaise with subcontractors for pricing on specific components like joinery, electrical work and plumbing. During this period patience is key; thorough pricing up front helps avoid unexpected budget blowouts (and variations) later. It also ensures that when you do move forward, the whole team has a shared understanding of what’s included, how it will be delivered, and when it can be done. Builder, client and designer is the dream team!
Phase 3: Approvals and permissions
Alongside Phase 2, and depending on your project’s scope of work, relevant permissions need to be obtained. This could mean council development applications or certifications from other relevant authorities. Each of these steps involves paperwork, our drawings, and sometimes back-and-forth communication with officials, which can add 1-3 months (or more) to your timeline.
In some cases, the approval stage can take longer than the design phase itself, especially if your project involves structural changes or falls under stricter local regulations, such as Heritage restraints. While it can be tempting to rush through, these permissions are there to ensure safety, compliance, and long-term value for your home, and they’re non-negotiable if you want to avoid legal or financial headaches down the track.
Phase 4: Construction and installation
This is the phase most people picture when they think of a renovation or build; walls coming down, new features being built, and trades buzzing around the site. Timelines here vary widely depending on the size and scope of your project. A partial home renovation could take 4-6 months. A complete home transformation can stretch anywhere from 10–18 months or more, while a new build could be the same sort of timeline.
Even with careful planning, it’s wise to add a buffer for the unexpected: weather disruptions, delayed deliveries, or discovering structural issues once walls are opened up. We maintain weekly communication here with your builder and you as our client. It allows for quick problem-solving and keeps the project moving forward as smoothly as possible- that’s what we’re here for!
The takeaway
Renovations aren’t just about ‘build time’, they are a sequence of interconnected phases, each relying on the one before it. From thoughtful design and smart sourcing to securing approvals and executing the build, every stage has its own timeline.
When you understand the process in full, you can approach your renovation with realistic expectations, avoid frustration, and enjoy the opportunity. After all, the goal isn’t just to get to the finish line, it’s to create a home you’ll love living in for years to come.
Ready to get started?
We’ll walk you through every step, set realistic milestones, and keep you informed along the way so that you can enjoy the process. Tell us a bit about your project plans and we’ll be in touch via phone or email shortly to discuss your project:
