Friday 5: The things I would do differently if I was building again

People always say there are things they would do differently in their house build or renovation. Despite careful planning, experience renovating and being an avid interiors nerd, I too find myself with a list.  Interestingly when I reflect on it mine are mostly regrets for the things I didn’t do or when I played it safe.  

1.       Hannah’s bedroom size

What can I say I just don’t’ think it’s big enough or has enough wall space. Technically the room is an ok size but with a sliding door on 1 wall, wardrobe on the other wall and a large window on the third it doesn’t give many options. This is a major as it’s not an easy fix.

2.       My washer & dryer should be around the other way

This one is one of those little things that bugs me on the daily. Basically, my washing machine and dryer doors open up back-to-back making it annoyingly difficult to move things from the washing machine to the dryer. I never thought about it in the mudroom design or with my appliance selection but wish I did.

3.       No tiles above the bath

I really wish I did put wall tiles behind the bath in the kids bathroom. My kids just like splashing in the bath regardless of how many times I tell them not to. Wall tiles were not included in the plan / budget as a standard feature with the building company but I regret not adding it. This is something I have on my long list of things to sort one day.

4.       Double glazing and insulation in the garage

We spent lots of the budget on extra installation and heating in the house but to compensate we cut right back in the garage. Now when I walk in there in winter it feels like an icebox compared to the rest of our house, not helped by the fact it’s fully south facing. I guess I can add more insulation but won’t be going back to double glaze the windows any time soon.

5.       Sightlines from the front door

Our front door has glass panels on either side I love the light it brings and that you can see right through the house to the farm. I don’t love that you can see into our bedroom when our door and the hall cavity slider is open. You do need to be looking but the fact you can see the bed is just potential for an awkward situation with the postie or a neighbour.

Hopefully you can learn something from my mistakes! I would love hear your views on my building regrets. Even more I would love to hear any build or renovation regrets you have had in the comments below.