A large-scale renovation is an exciting opportunity to transform your home into a luxury retreat tailored to your lifestyle. However, without a well-planned budget, costs can quickly escalate. Knowing where to invest and where to cut costs wisely ensures you achieve a stunning result without unnecessary overspending. Here’s our expert guide to where to splurge and where to save when planning a high-end renovation in Brisbane.
Where to Splurge
1. Structural Elements & Quality Construction
Your home’s foundation, framework, and structural integrity should never be compromised. Investing in quality materials and skilled craftsmanship ensures your home remains strong, safe, and durable for decades.
Worth the investment: High-quality timber, reinforced steel, premium insulation, and expert builders.
2. Architectural & Interior Design
A well-designed home is not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality, space optimisation, and seamless flow. Hiring an experienced architect and interior designer will help create a timeless, sophisticated space.
Worth the investment: Custom layouts, architectural detailing, and professional design services.
3. Kitchens & Bathrooms
Kitchens and bathrooms add the most value to a home. High-end appliances, stone benchtops, and custom cabinetry make these spaces functional and luxurious, while premium tapware and tiling enhance the overall aesthetic.
Worth the investment: Natural stone surfaces, custom joinery, high-quality fixtures, and premium appliances.
4. Windows & Doors
Natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor living are essential for Brisbane homes. Investing in high-performance windows and doors improves energy efficiency, security, and visual appeal.
Worth the investment: Floor-to-ceiling glass doors, double glazing, and architectural steel or timber finishes.
5. Smart Home Technology
Future-proof your home with integrated smart systems for lighting, security, climate control, and entertainment. Automation adds convenience, security, and energy efficiency.
Worth the investment: Home automation, smart lighting, security systems, and motorised blinds.
Where to Save
1. Finishes & Fixtures (Selectively)
While high-end kitchens and bathrooms are worth the splurge, not every surface needs to be premium. You can achieve a luxury look with well-chosen cost-effective alternatives.
Smart savings: Engineered stone instead of marble, quality laminate cabinetry instead of all-solid timber, and stylish but mid-range tapware.
2. Flooring (in Low-Traffic Areas)
Premium flooring in main areas like the living room and kitchen is a great investment, but you can opt for more affordable options in less-used spaces.
Smart savings: Hybrid or engineered timber instead of solid hardwood, carpet in bedrooms instead of expensive stone or timber.
3. Lighting Fixtures
Statement lighting can elevate a space, but you don’t need to spend a fortune on every fixture. A mix of designer pieces and budget-friendly lighting works well.
Smart savings: Invest in feature pendant lights and save on recessed downlights and secondary lighting.
4. Built-in Storage
Custom joinery adds elegance, but not all storage needs to be custom-made. You can mix built-in solutions with ready-made options to balance cost.
Smart savings: Custom wardrobes in key areas, but use modular shelving in less visible spaces.
5. Outdoor Landscaping
While landscaping enhances your home’s exterior, you can start with essential structural elements and add more features over time.
Smart savings: Focus on hardscaping (patios, decks) first, and gradually add greenery and decorative elements.
If you’re ready to transform your home, download our free guide, “The Essential Guide to Starting Your Large-Scale Renovation” from our website.