Home renovation is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. Whether you’re updating a tired kitchen, reconfiguring the layout of a Victorian terrace, or adding space with a loft conversion, good planning is the key to success.
At Ryan and Sons, we’ve helped homeowners across London navigate every kind of renovation—big and small. This step-by-step guide explains everything you need to know to plan your renovation confidently, stay on budget, and enjoy the transformation from start to finish.
Before making any drawings or budget plans, clarify why you’re renovating and what you hope to achieve.
Knowing your priorities helps shape design decisions and scope.
Are you dreaming of a modern, open-plan space or restoring period features? Collect inspiration from:
Think ahead: will your family grow? Are you planning to rent or sell in a few years? Designing with longevity in mind avoids regrets later.
Your budget isn’t just about what you want to spend—it’s about what your goals cost.
Be sure to account for:
We always recommend prioritising:
These affect both performance and property value for years to come.
Your project is only as strong as your team.
Design and build firms (like Ryan and Sons) handle:
This one-team model offers faster timelines, more transparent communication, and a lower risk of trade conflict.
Look for:
London homes are subject to numerous regulations. Before building, confirm what’s needed:
You may need full planning permission if:
All significant work must comply with regulations on:
If you share a wall with neighbours, you’ll likely need a party wall notice before construction starts.
Once goals and permissions are in place, it’s time to lock in the design and details.
Your design team will work with you to draft:
We encourage clients to bring photos, swatches, and samples to help articulate their vision.
Choosing finishes early helps with budgeting and scheduling. This includes:
We guide clients through durable, stylish, and sustainable options that fit their style and budget.
A well-planned timeline outlines what happens, when, and by whom.
Typical projects are broken into:
We provide clients with realistic timeframes and milestone reviews to keep everything on track.
Renovation is disruptive—prepare mentally and practically.
Depending on the project size, you may need to:
We help assess whether relocation is advisable and plan accordingly.
We use:
You can also move valuables or store furniture off-site to avoid clutter and damage.
Once work begins, expect a rhythm of activity.
We establish clear access routes, skip locations, and storage areas. Our teams:
With Ryan and Sons, clients get:
This keeps you informed without needing to be on-site every day.
Even the best-laid plans face changes—but with the right systems, they’re manageable.
We recommend budgeting 10–15% for unexpected costs like:
We alert clients immediately to any issues and offer:
This ensures no surprises—only informed decisions.
The finish line is in sight—but quality control is key.
We conduct detailed snagging walkthroughs with clients to check for:
Our foreman ensures all trades sign off on their work and that any defects are resolved promptly.
If applicable, we provide:
Your renovation may be complete, but our service isn’t.
We offer robust warranties on workmanship and help clients activate any manufacturer product guarantees.
We supply custom guides tailored to your new materials, from floor cleaning instructions to repainting tips.
For large projects, we can advise on:
This ensures your home stays looking and functioning at its best for years.
Planning a renovation is a journey—but with the right team, it doesn’t have to be stressful. From dreaming to drawing, building to finishing, Ryan and Sons support you every step of the way.
Our process-driven, client-focused approach ensures your renovation is beautiful, practical, and built to last.
Whether revamping a single room or reimagining your entire home, our team is here to turn your vision into reality—on time, on budget, and with total peace of mind.
Q1: How much should I budget for a home renovation in London?
A1: It depends on size and scope, but expect £1,500–£2,500 per m² for standard refurbishments and £2,500–£4,000 per m² for high-spec finishes or structural changes.
Q2: Do I need an architect and a builder separately?
A2: Not invariably. A design and build firm like Ryan and Sons handles both seamlessly, reducing costs and stress.
Q3: What are the most common causes of renovation delays?
A3: Planning permission delays, unexpected structural issues, and material lead times. We mitigate all of these with proactive planning.
Q4: Can I live on the property during the renovation?
A4: Sometimes, depending on the scale of work. We’ll help you assess feasibility and plan for safety and comfort.
Q5: How do I get started with Ryan and Sons?
A5: It’s simple—book a free consultation. We’ll listen to your goals, assess your space, and build a step-by-step plan tailored to your project.
