How Vernacular Homes works with a client on a renovation project

When we work with a client, taking the time to listen and fully understand their goals, lifestyle needs, and budget is fundamental for creating a project that exceeds their expectations.  
We know from experience that clients appreciate collaboration and consideration far more than being spoken at. 

We relish the challenge of taking a client’s ideas and elevating them into possibilities they might not have thought of or didn’t think were viable or affordable.  

An open, collaborative approach, where every question and idea is welcome, shared, considered, valued and reviewed, is key to any successful home build, renovation, conversion or extension. 

Here, we answer some questions you might have about working with us. 

BEFORE THE RENOVATION BEGINS 

The initial consultation – how do we begin your renovation? 
Whether you’re adding extra space, converting a house into a rental property or renovating a beautiful period property, we will spend time talking with you in depth to understand the ultimate aims for your project before any work begins.

We’ll agree from the start how you want to be kept updated at each stage of the project – through site or office meetings, calls or regular emails – so you feel informed and involved every step of the way. 
 
Turning your ideas into a realistic design 
We have the skill, technical know-how and experience to design and renovate your home – but you’re the expert when it comes to knowing what you want from it. 

Whether you have rough ideas or absolute must-haves, we’ll translate them into feasible concepts and use our advanced Building Information Modelling to take you through a virtual tour of your renovation. Every element can be tweaked at this stage to finetune the floorplan, lighting, flow, and functionality before work begins. 
 
Who manages planning and building regulations? 
Obtaining planning permission can be one of the most stressful elements of a home build. But at Vernacular Homes, we have longstanding relationships with local authority planners meaning we understand which designs are likely to be approved. We also take care of every step of the process, including: 

• Drafting and submitting plans

• Managing building regulations

• Dealing with conservation and protected species/bat protection orders

• Working with listed properties

• Revising existing or previously failed plans to meet your needs and the planners’ requirements

How do we help you choose the right materials and finishes? 
Choosing fixtures and fittings to create the right aesthetic for your home can be one of the most fun elements of a project. But it’s important to strike the balance between beauty and durability.  

Our years of experience means we can advise you on good quality materials that will not only endure but also look the part. We’ll ensure they satisfy any planning or listed building requirements, where appropriate, preserving the historical character and authenticity of your property. We also work with interior designers, helping you achieve the perfect look for your home.  

All under one roof 
Our in-house team provides full project management, supported by trusted specialists, relieving clients of the stress of scheduling tradespeople, managing a timeline and budget – especially if you are working or have other life commitments that mean you dip in and out of the project. Our eyes are always on the project, so it moves along quickly and costly hold-ups are avoided. 

We’ll communicate regularly, clearly and make decision together. We’re expert planners and pre-empt potential challenges preventing any unexpected issues along the way from impacting the project – meaning no nasty budget surprises! 

WHEN THE BUILD BEGINS 

How we manage costs and timelines 
Once your project is underway, keeping it on budget and on schedule is a priority. We know that time is money – delays can have a knock-on effect on rent, mortgage and loan commitments.

If the unexpected arises such as a design change, supplier delay or bad weather, we’ll offer practical solutions to get back on track as soon as possible and often, we can reschedule work to keep moving. Of course, even with the most meticulous planning, not every eventuality can be predicted – should the brief change at any point, we will provide an immediate price and timeline adjustment. 

How we keep you informed and in control 
During the project, you will receive regular progress updates. We will regularly review designs with you and clients have full sign-off at key stages or when the specification has changed at your request. 

After all, this is your home and you’re in charge! 

Common client concerns  
We understand that committing budget and time to a project is a big step – especially if you’ve never undertaken a renovation before. Here are some common concerns clients sometimes have before undertaking a project.

• Spiralling costs:  We set your budget right from the start. Our BIM modelling system helps to accurately cost every aspect early on in the design process. 

• Keeping control of design choices: We will always listen to your ideas and preferences and respond with options that fit your vision. We’re there to listen and advise, never to dictate.

• Planning delays: We have extensive experience with local planners and are well acquainted with their rules, regulations and stipulations. We know what to expect and are always on top of the process and will advise you what’s happening and when.

• Finances: You will always know what to pay and when. We typically provide cash flow forecasts that enable financial planning.

We’ve got some more blogs that cover how we manage the planning permission process, how building information modelling (BIM) gives clients a virtual walk through experience and what you can expect from our architectural design team plus many more tips, advice, and examples of our previous projects. 

Browse our extensive case studies to hear from some of our clients delighted with their renovation, restorations and extensions. 

Any more questions? 

Find out more about our renovation, restoration and extension services, head to our FAQs or get in touch today to talk through your initial plans – we’re here to listen.