DIY Renovating & Home Styling: A Real Life Reno Diary
TOP 2 resources for managing your own reno
Attempting your own DIY renovating or home transformation?
You’re not alone… home improvement and DIY are high on a lot of agendas — and can turn an ordinary house into your dream home while saving a pretty penny or two! This is exactly why we just had to chat with Cindy from The Reno Diary, to get the low down on her third reno journey, renovation experience and expertise of renovating for profit! Plus tour her stunning home transformation… #thisway
Reno Diary • Coastal White Kitchen with Island Bench and Brass Taps
From Corporate Careers to DIY Home Renovators
But where did it all start? Cindy comes from a corporate background, most recently spending 16 years working in HR, while her husband Dan, owns a commercial construction business.
This home is their 3rd renovation, which slowed down towards the end with the arrival of a new baby. They started home renovating as a way to make some extra money, hoping over time to flip enough houses to be able to afford their dream home — which they hope will be their next building project!
They started with a full kitchen renovation, and from that point on, they never looked back. This new home reno was a bigger home and renovation project compared to the smaller scale post-war cottages they had renovated previously. They were, however, able to renovate it a lot faster as they had more savings due to the profits from the first two property flips. In the previous two renovations, they had to save money and renovate each home bit by bit over a number of years.
Reno Diary • Coastal Bathroom Design with Brass Tapware and Oak Vanity
Reno Diary • Coastal Shower Design with Shelf Feature and Twin Shower Heads
Reno Diary Coastal Home Project Details
Project: Casa Bella, Residential Home
Project Location: Brisbane, Qld
Style: Coastal Home
The original home was strategically purchased for its prime location, beautiful street appeal, and untapped potential hidden within its very structure. The grand Queenslander is nestled just 5 kilometers from the bustling Brisbane CBD and was renovated to create a Coastal Style Home.
Reno Diary • Coastal Bedroom Design with Rattan Side Table and Wall Light
Reno Diary • Coastal Power Room with VJ Panelling, Oak Vanity and Globe Pendant Lights
5 Things To Consider When Purchasing Property
When looking for a new property to purchase that you intend to flip, these are Cindy’s top recommendations when purchasing…
Consider who the target buyer is and what’s important to them.
The neighborhood's growth potential is a top consideration, ensuring that your investment stands to appreciate over time.
Properties that are in close proximity to public transport, cafes, and restaurants are a must.
Look for properties that offer structural opportunities for value enhancement. The aim is to create living spaces that resonate with potential buyers, such as removing walls to open up space and create open-plan living, or adding walls to create another bedroom or bathroom. Anything along those lines, but it has to have opportunity within the structure.
Look for a property that doesn't have any major limitations, i.e. do essential checks like character overlays so you know what changes you can make to the facade or extensions, and also flood zone limitations, before signing any contracts.
Reno Diary • Coastal Backyard Design with Timber Decking
Reno Diary • Coastal Pool and Entertaining Area with Landscaping
How to Tackle a New Renovation Project: Where Do You Start?
When it comes to taking on a new project, Cindy’s approach is as diverse as her journey. Living in the home while renovating calls for a different strategy compared to a project where the renovation is completed before moving in.
But there's one constant - Inspiration! Instagram and Pinterest is a great first stop, where you can gather ideas and ignite the creative spark. The kitchen takes center stage as it often sets the tone for the rest of the home. From there, Cindy likes to move on to the front facade to welcome them home with a warm and inviting aesthetic. Larger projects, like bathrooms, are also a priority.
Cindy says she shies away from elaborate mood boards, preferring to get her hands dirty and immerse herself in the creative process, often visualizing how each piece will fit into the bigger picture.
Reno Diary • Coastal Kitchen Design with Rattan Pendant Light and Brass Tapware
Reno Diary • Coastal Laundry Design with Brass Tapware
Prioritising Expenses: Where to Spend and Where to Save
In the world of DIY renovation, striking the right balance between spending and saving is an art. Cindy’s approach to expenses takes into account the target buyer and the specific property in question.
For instance, kitchens and bathrooms, the heart of a home, receive a more substantial investment in terms of quality and cost. These are the rooms that often sway buyers' decisions. In contrast, for bedrooms, you can opt for more budget-friendly alternatives, such as Ikea Pax wardrobes, which can be customized to mimic a high-end look. Even when it comes to flooring, explore cost-effective alternatives like hybrid flooring, offering the allure of timber without the price tag.
When it comes to styling, using quality furniture that is built to last, is a wise investment. Yet, cost-effective, interchangeable styling pieces that can be refreshed seasonally to keep your space feeling fresh and exciting.
Reno Diary • Master Bedroom Design
Reno Diary • Ensuite Design with Deep Bath and Pendant Light
The Team Behind The Project
Interior Design + Styling Cindy Mead of Reno Diary
Follow @reno.diary
Portrait Photography Coast Park Creative
Home Photography Villa Styling
