How we work
1. Understanding the Opportunity
Many homeowners come to me with ideas about what they want to change but aren’t always sure where to start.
A fresh pair of eyes can often unlock opportunities that aren’t immediately obvious, helping you see the potential in your home before committing to a particular solution.
How I can help:
- Initial consultations
- Renovation feasibility
- Layout ideas and options
- Budget guidance
- Identifying opportunities and constraints
2. Developing the Design
A good design isn’t just about creating more space. It’s about creating a home that functions better and feels right for the people living in it.
We explore layouts, test ideas and refine the design until there is a clear plan for moving forward.
How I can help:
- Space planning
- Design development
- Kitchen planning
- Coordination with architects and engineers
- Budget reviews as the design evolves
3. Preparing for Construction
This phase focuses on the technical information, approvals and contractor selection needed to turn the design into a buildable project and help prevent expensive surprises.
How I can help:
- Building Warrant coordination
- Liaison with engineers and specialists
- Contractor pricing and comparisons
- Contractor selection
- Pre-construction planning
4. Guidance During Construction
Construction is the most exciting part of a renovation, but it can also be the most stressful.
Questions arise, details need to be resolved and clients often want reassurance that everything is progressing as it should. Through regular site visits, client check-ins and ongoing communication, I help clients stay informed and supported throughout the build.
How I can help:
- Weekly site visits
- Weekly client check-ins
- Progress updates following site visits
- Design and specification support
- Guidance on issues that arise during construction
- Liaison with contractors where required
- Forward planning for upcoming stages
5. Completion
This is the stage where snagging, finishing touches and last-minute adjustments come together to turn a building site back into a home.
How I can help:
- Final reviews
- Snagging guidance
- Completion support
- Handover advice
Throughout the Process
Renovations involve more moving parts than most homeowners expect.
I work alongside clients throughout the journey, helping them ask the right questions, coordinate the right people and stay focused on the bigger picture.
The goal is not simply to complete a renovation. It’s to create a home you’ll love living in for years to come.
Independent Renovation Guidance
The House Story supports homeowners across Edinburgh, working on tenement flats, period properties, extensions and home refurbishments.
Our role is to help homeowners feel more supported and less overwhelmed throughout the renovation process — creating homes that work well and feel good to live in.
