Why I Chose to Build Instead of Renovating (This Time)

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know I absolutely love renovating. I’ve spent years transforming old spaces, bringing homes back to life, and getting creative with what’s already there. Renovating will always have a special place in my heart – but for this next chapter, I decided to do something different. I chose to build.

Not because renovating isn’t worth it (it absolutely is!), but because this time, building made more sense for me and where I’m at in life.

Here’s why…

1. I Wanted to Apply Everything I’ve Learnt About Energy-Efficient + Sustainable Homes

One thing renovating can’t always offer is a blank slate – and after years of learning about sustainable design, energy-efficient living, and better ways to build, I wanted to put all of that knowledge into action.

Starting fresh meant I could design a home that ticks all the boxes for long-term comfort, efficiency, and affordability, without being restricted by an old floorplan or structure.

2. I Was Ready for a Fresh Start (and Less Chaos)

There’s nothing like the magic of transforming an old home… but let’s be honest, living through a renovation isn’t always easy. I’ve done the dust, the mess, and the endless to-do lists – and I was ready for a clean slate.

Building meant I could avoid living amongst the chaos and instead move straight into something finished and functional.

3. No More Quick Fixes

When you renovate, you’re often working around what’s already there – which can sometimes mean patching up problems, fixing the past, and making compromises. It’s incredibly rewarding but also a constant juggling act.

For me, building meant I could stop patching and start creating exactly what I wanted, without having to work around old layouts or bandaid solutions.

4. I Wanted to Be Creative From the Ground Up

I love the challenge of working within the limits of a renovation – but this time, I wanted total creative freedom. Building has given me the chance to design every detail to suit how I live, flow the spaces well, and bring my ideas to life without compromise.

5. It Made Sense Financially

Renovating can absolutely add value, but this time around, the numbers stacked up better for a new build. I knew I’d have the opportunity to create a beautiful, functional home and gain strong equity from day one.

A Positive Shift – Not an End to Renovating

This isn’t me turning my back on renovating. I’ll always love the magic of transforming old homes and finding potential where others don’t. But sometimes, it’s about choosing the right path for the right season – and right now, building from scratch felt like the best choice for me.

If you’re wondering whether to renovate or build, I’ll be sharing my full build journey here, plus all the tips, lessons, and ideas you can take into any project – whether you’re picking up a paintbrush, drawing up plans, or somewhere in between.