How To Renovate

This time of year always brings a certain pressure to our homes; guests, dinners, family staying over.
And suddenly, those little niggles about layout and functionality become glaringly obvious. 

In this episode, I talks about how to harness that end-of-year reflection to kick off your renovation plans the right way. 
In this episode, I go over the method I’ve developed over many, many years of renovating both for myself, and for my clients.
I want to help you make a confident, stress-free start to your dream home. 

If you happen to have a few free days during the holidays, it is the ideal time to start planning, and for this part, you don’t even need an architect, designer or contractor.
Just download my free Renovation Checklist and start 2026 with a strong renovation plan! 

https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies 

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

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Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

In this episode, I cover one of the sometimes overlooked elements of your interior: window dressings. 

Most people leave curtains and blinds until the very end of a renovation, then panic-choose something “good enough” and wonder why the room still doesn’t feel quite right. 

In this episode I walk you through how to think about your windows like a designer: starting with the view outside, privacy, the light you want to invite in (or block out), and the mood you’re trying to create. There really is more than you might think to choosing the right window dressings. 

I’ll go through the curtains vs blinds vs shutters debate, to what on earth to do with radiators under windows, to why short curtains really get my goat. 

Plus lots more - I didn’t realise just how much I had to say about window dressings! If you’ve ever felt stuck on how to dress your windows, this one’s for you. 

So if you have a window that needs some power dressing, I’ll see you inside.

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

*******************

PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

In this week’s episode was unexpectedly inspired by the  kids’ TV show—Bluey—watching this episode with my daughter sparked a reflection on the mental load many of us carry, particularly mothers and caregivers, 
and how our homes can either add to that load… or ease it.

Inside, I dive into the emotional impact of our home environments and explore how design—both big and small—can actively support relaxation, calm, and our wellbeing. From clutter and storage to sensory cues and micro-zones, this episode offers practical and thoughtful ways to make your home a place where you can actually exhale.

If, like me, you’ve ever felt like you should be relaxing but just can’t switch off… this one’s for you.

What we’ll cover:

• Why your home isn’t a neutral backdrop—and how it can impact your stress levels
• How visual clutter affects your brain and your ability to relax
• Big and small ways to reduce stress through design
• How to create intentional "micro-zones" for calm
• The importance of mini systems, and why they’re not just for productivity
• Simple sensory shifts that make a big impact on wellbeing

Mentioned in this episode:

Bluey – S3 E40 “Relax” (yes, it's brilliant—even for grown-ups)

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

Today I dive into into a space that’s often joyful, chaotic, and ever-changing — kids' bedrooms. I'm sharing advice on how to design children's bedrooms that grow and adapt over time, without constant costly overhauls.

You’ll learn how to collaborate with your kids, how to build a smart, flexible foundation with lighting, furniture, and layout, and why adaptable storage and modular design are absolute lifesavers. 

Whether you're starting with a nursery or refreshing a tween’s space, this episode will help you design a room that will grow with your child.

What We'll Cover:

• Why collaboration with your kids (even little ones!) is key — and how to do it without committing to Barbie wallpaper forever.
• How to create a flexible base that saves time, money, and stress over the years.
• Lighting planning tips for every age and stage.
• The magic of multi-stage furniture and adjustable storage systems.
• How to leave space for change — hobbies, growth spurts, and everything in between.
• Why vintage pieces can bring charm and personality to modern kids' rooms.

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

 
Hi my lovely renovators!
Today, we're diving into something I don’t talk about often but is absolutely crucial—how to survive a renovation with your relationship intact. It’s a little tongue-in-cheek, sure, but the emotional strain of renovating with a partner is very real, and after years of navigating this both personally and professionally, I’ve got a lot to say.

From design and budget disagreements to decision fatigue, today I’m sharing some strategies I use to help couples make it through the chaos—still liking each other at the end. 

Listen solo or together, and let’s set your renovation (and relationship) up for success.

What You'll Learn:

• Why design disagreements don’t mean relationship doom
• How to create a shared renovation vision that reflects both your personalities
• Avoiding “renovation resentment” and the mental load imbalance
• Smart strategies for making design compromises (without giving in completely!)
• How to emotionally prepare for what’s coming—dust, delays, and all
  
  

Resources Mentioned:
Free Renovation Planning Checklist

Sequence of a Successful Renovation - Free Video Lesson

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

 
If you're someone who loves having people over—whether it’s lively dinner parties, relaxed drinks with friends, or chaotic but joyful kids' parties, this episode is made for you. 
Today, I’m walking you through how to design or renovate your home with entertaining in mind.

Because let’s be honest, hosting is so much more enjoyable when your space is planned for it and it flows beautifully.
Whether you’re planning from scratch or looking to tweak your current setup, I’ll share ideas that will help you create a welcoming, functional home that’s ready for guests, at the drop of a hat!

From clever layout tips and breakout zones to lighting layers and storage for all those extra glasses, we’re covering it all.

We’ll chat about how to make your home ready for entertaining from the front hallway all the way through to the garden.

I’ll go through zoning tips, planning your circulation, flow and flexible layouts to lighting and breakout areas for conversation and connection. 

Let’s get ready to welcome guests with ease - I’ll see you inside!

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

Okay, confession time…
One of my favourite rooms to design in the home is the utility room. I know — it sounds boring. 
But trust me, it's one of the hardest-working and most overlooked spaces in a home.

In this week’s episode of How To Renovate, I’m making the case for why you need a utility space — even if it’s just a cupboard under the stairs.

We’ll chat about:
  Why a utility area can reduce stress and clutter
Planning tips to make it super functional
Clever ways to make it beautiful on a budget
How to squeeze one in any size home

If you’re not convinced yet — this one’s for you. Hit that play button!

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

Hello, I’m back this week with a little love for the small but mighty kitchen. If your kitchen didn’t get top billing—this episode is for you. Kitchens often have to work the hardest in the home, and when expanding isn’t an option, it’s all about making the most of what you have. 

Today, I’m sharing practical tips and a few interior design solutions to help you make your small kitchen feel bigger, brighter, and better. 

We’ll chat through: 

Lighting that flatters and functions – from hidden LEDs to layered lighting plans that bring warmth and brightness even to windowless kitchens. 

Layout love – why your floor plan is your best friend, how to test different configurations, and why every centimetre counts. 

Optical illusions – reflective surfaces, continuous flooring, and mirrored splashbacks that trick the eye and stretch the space. 

Storage (of course!) – deep drawers over cupboards, slim pull-out ladders, and even those genius kick drawers you might not have considered. 

Breaking the boundaries – how to borrow light and sightlines from adjacent rooms without knocking down all the walls. 

If you’ve got a small kitchen, don’t despair—you’re in the right place. 

I’ll see you inside! 

Other Useful Resources: HOW TO PLAN YOUR DREAM KITCHEN MASTERCLASS: https://www.southplacestudio.com/masterclasses/p/masterclass-how-to-plan-your-dream-kitchen

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio

Does Renovating Add Value in 2025? | Home Renovation ROI Explained

Wondering if renovating your home is worth the investment in 2025? In this episode of How To Renovate, I break down down the financial pros and cons of renovating vs. moving, UK renovation trends, return on investment for loft conversions and extensions, and how to budget smartly. Discover when it makes sense to renovate. 

With UK house prices still rising and the cost of moving continuing to soar, more homeowners are choosing to renovate rather than relocate.

In this episode I unpack current renovation trends, typical costs, and what kind of return on investment you can expect from projects like loft conversions and extensions. I also share how you can assess whether a renovation is the right move for you — not just financially, but emotionally and practically too.

Key Talking Points:

UK Renovation Trends (2025) – including stats on rising home improvement loans and the average cost of renovations.

Why Renovating is Often Cheaper Than Moving – breaking down stamp duty, solicitor fees, agent costs, and more.

The Housing Shortage and Design Gaps – why people can't find the "right" house and are choosing to transform their current space instead.

Tailoring Your Home to Your Life – from home gyms to home offices, flexibility matters more than ever.

The Financials: Cost vs Value Add – how to calculate return on investment and avoid overspending.

What Adds the Most Value? – loft conversions, rear extensions, reconfigurations vs. cosmetic upgrades.

When Renovating Doesn’t Make Sense – ceiling prices, financing challenges, and making tough trade-offs.

Beyond the Financials – your home is more than an asset; it’s your sanctuary.

Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 8 – Double the Time & Double the Budget
 Episode 17 – How to Get More Accurate Builder Quotes
Episode 35 – Renovating to Sell
Episode 44 – Understanding and Comparing Contractor Quotes
Episode 48 – No Vanilla Renos, Please
Episode 54 – The Hidden Costs of Renovating

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PLEASE CAST YOUR KIND VOTES HERE!
This podcast has been shortlisted for a UFurnish Home Award in the Best Interior Content Creator Category.
https://homeawards.ufurnish.com/2026/en/page/vote?nomination=9fce-tash-south 

*******************

Hi, I’m Tash South — interior designer, renovation consultant, and founder of South Place Studio.

In this podcast, I share practical renovation advice, along with deeper insights into home and belonging.

If you’d like more resources and support, head to:
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

If you’re navigating your own renovation, my RenoVersity programme offers a structured, guided and thoughtful approach to renovating with clarity, confidence and intention https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity

Or if you want to get social, you can find us here:
Instagram: @southplacestudio
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-place-studio
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/southplacestudio