"Previously dilapidated home on the block undergoes revamp by one pair, resulting in a breathtaking transformation"
Renovating a Flat-Roofed Contemporary Home: Mike and Jane's Journey
For Mike and Jane, the journey of renovating their flat-roofed contemporary home was filled with challenges and rewards. The property, initially a small, dark 'cottage' that felt more like a double garage, was located on a best road and had a woodland garden backing onto a golf course.
Their wishlist for the renovated home included indoor-outdoor living, a spacious kitchen diner, and a contemporary feel inspired by sleek Mediterranean and US West Coast architecture. To achieve this, they spent a significant portion of their budget on buying the property, as only permitted development rights existed for the small structure.
The redesign process was not without hurdles. Living with their children, a cat, and a dog in the original tiny building during the initial design and build phase made conditions uncomfortable. Eventually, they had to find alternative accommodation for several months due to the living conditions becoming impossible on-site.
Despite these challenges, Mike and Jane managed to transform the property. The roof was finished with a rubber membrane, and the external house cladding is a combination of ash boards and white render. The rear of the renovated house features extensive glazing and corner sliding doors, providing an ideal indoor-outdoor living space.
The hallway is formed from parts of the original house, while the games room, another of the couple's own designs, features triple bunk beds that they made themselves. A dedicated boot room and a bespoke staircase give the space a contemporary feel. The wine storage, yet another of their designs, adds a touch of elegance to the home.
In navigating the challenges of renovating without a project manager, Mike and Jane followed key tips. They thoroughly planned before starting, set realistic goals, consulted experts when needed, secured necessary permits early, prioritized safety, structured the renovation order, and documented decisions and progress.
Attention to waterproofing and ventilation was critical in the specific context of a flat-roofed contemporary home. Proper membranes, sealing, and ventilation were addressed, preferably with professional input, to avoid mold and rot.
The end result is a stunning, modern home that reflects Mike and Jane's vision and lifestyle. It serves as a testament to their determination, creativity, and ability to navigate the challenges of a DIY renovation.
- Mike and Jane initially purchased their flat-roofed contemporary home with a significant portion of their budget, as only permitted development rights existed for the small structure.
- In the redesign process, the roof was finished with a rubber membrane, and the external house cladding is a combination of ash boards and white render.
- The rear of the renovated house features extensive glazing and corner sliding doors, providing an ideal indoor-outdoor living space.
- To navigate the challenges of renovating without a project manager, Mike and Jane followed key tips, such as thoroughly planning before starting and setting realistic goals.
- A dedicated boot room and a bespoke staircase give the space a contemporary feel, while the wine storage adds a touch of elegance to the home.
- In the specific context of a flat-roofed contemporary home, attention to waterproofing and ventilation was critical to prevent mold and rot.
- The couple transformed the property, creating a stunning, modern home that reflects their vision and lifestyle.
- The home, inspired by sleek Mediterranean and US West Coast architecture, includes indoor-outdoor living, a spacious kitchen diner, and a games room with triple bunk beds that they made themselves.