Melbourne homes need these five things
In Hanson Buildings’ decades of experience renovating and extending homes for Melbourne families we have been into lots and lots of homes.
These are the five key things we believe all our clients should consider for their renovation or extension:
(1) Passive heating and cooling – In Melbourne’s chilly winters and scorching summers, we want our homes to be able to keep us comfortable. We also all want to keep our power bills down. And you don’t need to rebuild to incorporate passive heating and cooling principles. Choose windows and doors that open wide to allow cross-breezes, select top quality insulation and make sure you include well-considered window shading. Making some key decisions through the construction process can really help to improve your home’s ability to keep you and your family comfortable without switching on the heater or air conditioner.
(2) Storage – Hanson Building has completed some terrific projects where clients have thought of a place for everything – storage for kids schoolbags, sports equipment, extra bedding, old photos and family heirlooms, they have considered it all. Make a list of what you want to store in your new renovated home, and Hanson Building – together with our master cabinetmakers – can custom-build storage solutions for you.
(3) The right power – There are two aspects to this point. Firstly, more Hanson Building clients than ever are looking at upgrading their home to solar - and even installing a battery - during their renovation or extension. While it may cost a little more at the outset, more clients are seeing the value for themselves and the environment in the medium-to-long term. Secondly, consider the appliances you are purchasing and how much power they draw. Some kitchen appliances, particularly large induction cooktops, draw a lot more power than older-style electric cooktops. Talk to Hanson Building if you have grand culinary plans and we can ensure your home’s electrical infrastructure is up to the challenge.
(4) Bucking the trends – Whether it is The Block, Three Birds Renovations, Design Files or one of the many other popular renovation and design-focussed TV shows, blogs or social media accounts, there is a lot of focus on trends. We find our clients might take inspiration from a trend here or there, but they largely make decisions based on their own personal circumstances. Love entertaining? Consider a butler’s pantry. Prefer BBQs? Maybe choose an outdoor kitchen. Got young children? Consider a mud room. Got older children? A sound-proofed rumpus room might be more useful. Make decisions for your family, not to satisfy the trendsetters.
(5) Planning for the future – Many of Hanson Building’s clients are really great at anticipating their family’s changing requirements. Accessibility for older years, versatile spaces that can easily convert to suit different needs, and selecting long-lasting fitting and fixtures. Considering your family’s future needs now, can save a lot of time and money down the track.
For more information, get in touch with Hanson Building via the contact form.