How To Renovate

Budget worries are right up there when it comes to renovator  stress, but there are ways you can save on your reno, and manage your budget for a far less stressful experience.

Strap in for a financial makeover of your home renovation plans!  We'll tackle the art of proactive project management—if you are in control of your own renovation, then you can monitor your budget health and oversee each professional involved.

In this episode
Expect to navigate the ins and outs of meticulous planning, mastering the renovation sequence, to make sure no penny goes to waste.
Steal nuggets of advice from my years in the reno trenches and sidestep the pitfalls that come with overspending and miscommunication. 
Your dream home doesn't have to be a financial nightmare, and I'm here to help you gain control of your renovation budget.

We’ll discuss 5 Ways You Can Save Money On Your Renovation
Let’s get saving!  Join me inside the episode...

My knowledge to you!
Having good knowledge of the renovation process is one of the first, and most important steps to starting your exciting home renovation.
With the wisdom and hard-earned knowledge from my many years of interior design and renovation consultancy experience, I developed my
Five-Pillar Process to a Successful Renovation that's been the bedrock of my many successful property makeovers, for both myself, and for my clients. 

You can download a free video lesson and pdf guide HERE 
(southplacestudio.com/pillars)

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

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

Join me inside episode 10 (already!) to find out if you need planning permission to start that exciting renovation project!

Ever found yourself scratching your head

…pondering whether your dream extension falls within the realm of planning permission or if you're about to waltz into a bureaucratic nightmare? 

Fear not, because this episode is quick guide on planning, where I’lI cover three common situations here in the UK:
 1. If you live in a freehold house
 2. If you live in a flat or apartment
 3. If you live in a Conservation Area
 

In this episode
Strap in as we dissect the three common quandaries above that homeowners face. First off, the fortunate freeholders amongst us, who might tap into the world of permitted development rights, with tips on when it's time to knock on the council's door for that full planning application. 

Then, for the urbanites in flats or apartments, we discuss the complexities of extending your home and the importance of garnering your freeholder's permission too.

Lastly, we venture into the territories of conservation areas with some advice on applying for planning permission - without ruffling the feathers of local planning authorities.  Grab your notepad, because this episode is brimming with actionable intel! 

My knowledge to you!
Having good knowledge of the renovation and researching whether you need planning permission is one of the first steps to starting your exciting home renovation.
With the wisdom and hard-earned knowledge from my many years of interior design and renovation consultancy experience, I developed my
Five-Pillar Process to a Successful Renovation that's been the bedrock of my many successful property makeovers, for both myself, and for my clients.
You can download a free video lesson and pdf guide inside the link.

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

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 episode I talk about one of my favourite phases of the entire renovation process: Dreaming!

Picture this
 …your home, not just as a place to live but as a canvas for the way you really want to live. 
I invite you inside this episode to discover the secrets to crafting the living space that doesn't just house your memories but actively enhances your daily life. In today's chat, we'll navigate through the critical 'dreaming phase' of home renovation, uncovering how to fuse your personal taste with functional design.

We spend 87% of our lives inside buildings
…and how they are designed really affects how we feel and how we behave. So when I’m working with clients, I really encourage them to take the time  to dream about how they want to live, it may seem frivolous, but it  really does start to clarify the brief for the project.

This is the stage I really start to get into their minds to dig around and find  out exactly what they want from their renovation. 

It involves asking lots of questions and starting to look at images of what they envision their dream home to be.  And it’s something you can do for your own project to try and deeply  establish what is it you would love to achieve from your own renovation -  a chance to dream a little and find ways to bring all, or some, of that  into reality with your own home renovation.

In this episode
We get practical, but sprinkle in some creativity! From using flat-pack furniture cleverly to drawing inspiration from the unique architectural spirit of your property.  We also chat about style boards and sources of inspiration. So tune in, and let's transform your home visions into the solid reality of a space that truly reflects your originality!

Join me inside this episode to find out more about this exciting phase.
We’ll cover
3 Dreaming Questions &
3 Ways to Dream

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

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

Have you heard the term Double the time and double the budget when chatting about home renovations before? 

The  expression is a common adage in the world of home renovations, and unfortunately it’s kind of true! 
It’s not that every project’s time and budget will come out doubled, but rather a phrase that manages  expectations, because if you don’t plan your renovation well and have  realistic timelines and budgets, projects will frequently take longer and cost more than you originally anticipated. 

In a home  renovation, there so many elements to bring together, and so many factors to consider, and managing all of these elements perfectly can be  a very challenging task, as many of them will likely be out of your control.

In this episode

…we tackle the unforeseen challenges that can send your project spiraling. But fear not, dear renovator: through my five-pillar process, I arm you with strategies to manage these surprises effectively, keeping your renovation journey on track and as stress-free as possible. Everything I teach about renovation falls within my Five Pillar Process for A  Successful Renovation, to learn more about the process, head to southplacestudio.com/pillars 

Today's discussion goes beyond the mere surprises, we also unravel some of the intricacies of UK planning applications and approvals, and you'll gain insights into the importance of research and understanding local regulations to avoid potential project hold-ups. Join me inside as I share some of my hard-earned knowledge that will help you to transform your approach to renovations and handle your renovation project with confidence and success. 

Inside the episode we look at 8 things that can severely  affect your project timeline and budget. Some you may not be able to control, but most you can avoid, or mitigate for. So this one is a must-listen if you’re planning a renovation soon.

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

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 about to renovate…

you have probably started to hear about all the professionals you may need to get involved.

When  I self-built my north London home back in 2017, I had no idea just how  many people could possibly be involved. In this episode, I run through  an extensive list of ALL the professionals that could be involved in a  renovation project, and a short run-down of what each role involves. 

If you're feeling overwhelmed 

…and wondering who does what, then give this episode a listen before you start hiring.
Navigating the twists and turns of many renovation projects over the years, I've discovered the value of each professional, from architects to surveyors, and I'm here to illuminate the path for you so that you can learn which professionals will give you the best result for your renovation project.

Hire the correct professionals

…and you are setting yourself up for the beginnings of a successful home renovation. 
A good team is essential to achieve your dream home. In my five-pillar process for a successful renovation, the third pillar is: people.  You can learn more about the process and The Sequence of a successful renovation here:
www.southplacestudio.com/pillars

Ready to transform your home and your understanding of the renovation process? 

Join me inside this episode!

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

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

Ever felt that flutter of anxiety
…when it's time to pick a builder for your renovation project? You're not alone!
With a staggering 75% of renovators biting their nails over this decision, in this episode I'm unpacking a few questions you can ask potential contractors help you make that important decision and ease your worries. 

This chat isn't just a rundown, it will help you gain an understanding of the breakdown of your builder's estimate, pre-empt extra costs, and understand their workload in a way that will work with your timeframe. 

Feel confident in your decision
By the time we wrap up, you'll feel a little more confident about handpicking a builder who doesn’t just fit the bill, but someone who's in sync with your vision and expectations. 

Finding the right builder is up there as one of the main concerns of those about to renovate. 

When  I've surveyed renovators, they are really worried about finding someone  trustworthy, that understands their vision, is quoting fairly, will  carry out good workmanship, who will communicate well ... there is so  much to be concerned about, no wonder it's a top worry.

Join me inside the episode to dive into the 5 questions you need to ask your builders at interview stage to make sure you are making the right decision.

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

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 episode
…we discuss the most used room in the house – the kitchen.
Kitchens are the most popular rooms to renovate with 35% of renovators choosing to focus on this area, and having  a good layout in the kitchen is make or break – if your layout and  storage doesn’t work, you will hate using your kitchen! 

Discover how the right design can streamline your cooking experience, making every flip of the pancake or stir of the pot a breeze. We kick things off by tackling the daunting task of decluttering; it's more than just tossing out old spices—it's about creating a space that's both functional and free from chaos. I'll guide you through smart storage solutions to the strategic placement of appliances.

Now, picture this:
A kitchen where every movement is fluid, and every gathering is an event to remember - that's what we're aiming for. 
We navigate the intricacies of kitchen traffic, ensuring that you can dance around your kitchen without bumping into guests – or tripping over your dog! 
I'll detail the ideal width for paths, the clever positioning of islands and seating, and how to make every square inch count. 

By the end of our chat, you'll be equipped to start planning a kitchen that's the heart of your home, buzzing with energy and brimming with hospitality!

My five top tips for your kitchen layout are:
1.     Plan for minimal clutter
2.     Have a dedicated small appliance area
3.     Keep the working triangle in mind
4.     Plan for traffic flow
5.     Add an island or somewhere to sit
Join me as we go into detail on each point inside the episode.

Masterclass Launch - the Renovation Education continues!
I'm  so excited to launch our first digital masterclass in this episode! I'm  on a mission to help you renovate better and save time money and  overwhelm.

Because kitchens are so important to get right,  I’ve recorded a detailed masterclass called, How To Plan Your Dream  Kitchen, with step-by-step advice and a deep dive into planning your  perfect kitchen. You can learn all about what’s included in the masterclass HERE.

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

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

Ready to transform your home?

But overwhelmed by where to start? Let me be your guide through the labyrinth of home renovation. 

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for both the seasoned renovator and the first-timer, I’ll outline five important things you can do to ensure your project is a roaring success. I’m on a mission to help you avoid the biggest renovation mistakes, and in this episode we discuss five important things you  should do before you start your renovation project

In this episode

We start by zeroing in on your goals – be it adapting to a growing family, or even carving out a space for a new home office – you’ll have to lay out the foundation for every choice you'll have to make down the line. 

And when it comes to money matters, I'll show you how to approach your budget that lets you dream big, without the nightmare of overspending, it all leads back to knowing the sequence of the renovation process.

You'll also start to learn the ins and outs of navigating the local planning authority demands and be armed with some strategies to approach the tricky planning process. Plus, I spill some secrets on assembling a great team who'll bring your vision to life. 

So, if you want a renovation journey that's as smooth as that brand-new kitchen countertop you've been eyeing out - hit play now! 

Join me inside the episode to dive deeper…

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

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

Imagine
…taking the reins of your home renovation and crafting a space that's a perfect fit for your life. 

That's the empowering path we embarked on this week. Let’s explore the undeniable advantages of leading your own home renovation project.
From ensuring that your unique vision comes to life, to mastering budget and timeline control, this episode is packed with insights that can save you from costly pitfalls. Taking a proactive role does more than personalise your space, it transforms your house into your dream home, with your fingerprints on every decision. 

We dive deep
…into the benefits of being involved in the process, highlighting that while expert advice is invaluable, your voice should be the driving force behind your renovation's success.

In this episode
…we go over four reasons it’s important to be in control of your own home renovation. From  understanding your vision to avoiding miscommunication, this episode is  a must-listen if you're starting a renovation project soon.

Hungry for more Renovation Education?  :)

Our Freebies, Masterclasses and Blog are brimming with advice and resources. 

Here's to a week of inspired living and the joy of spaces crafted by you, for you. 
Tune in next time, where we continue to champion your role as renovation maestro and turn your home goals into stunning reality! 

See you inside! 

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

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 episode…

I go over four regrets or concerns I’ve heard come up working with renovators over the years, from not hiring professionals in the correct order, to not asking the right questions, it’s all in here! Knowing the mistakes of those who have gone before you is gold dust - I know I’ve certainly made a few that you can learn from!

What does a successful home renovation mean to you?
This episode peels back the layers of what success in home renovations mean to the individual, and  I’ll help you pinpoint the core of what will make your renovation dream a reality. 

We discuss how to align the outcomes of your project with your unique motivations and desires, whether it's adhering to a budget or designing a space that caters to your new work-from-home lifestyle or your dream of being the host-with-the-most! Discover the significance of crafting a well-defined vision and how it steers the countless decisions you'll face, from splurging on materials to fine-tuning the architectural layout

Renovating isn't just about breaking walls
It's about making your home function 100% for you and yours. Whether you need a nursery for a new arrival, or a sanctuary for your parents? Yearning for a quiet nook for your hobbies? 

We cover it all. This episode emphasizes the power of collective brainstorming with household members, ensuring no need goes unnoticed. So, jot down your goals and listen in as we lay the first stone in our five-pillar renovation planning process, preparing you to achieve a renovation result that not only supports you in your home, but also elevates your daily living. 

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

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