How to get the most from your home redesign

Laura Jane Clark explains how her latest book gives you the tools to design the home you want

I’ve come to the sad realisation that homeowners don’t always get the best architectural advice. Especially when it comes to smaller builds or projects with tight budgets.

Over the last 15 years, my architectural passion has been focused on tackling problem spaces, extending, remodelling houses and flats, and building new homes. I’ve worked with hundreds of homeowners at various stages in their design journey. And, in a lot of cases, plans have previously been drawn up or even submitted for planning permission, yet there is often a deep dissatisfaction with the finished design.

For many, finding the language to communicate their wants and needs is problematic. Homeowners can end up feeling unable to have a constructive discussion with their architect, architectural technician or builder.

I want homeowners to have a sense of control and more of a say in how they want to live – and for their homes to reflect that. If you’re fighting each day to find your coat, or are unable to cook dinner because you need to finish the laundry first, then you’re not winning. And your home isn’t working for you, but against.

I decided to tackle this issue head on and have published a book that seeks to give you the ability to confidently communicate your needs and vision for your home design.

The Handbook of Home Design is a step-by-step guide to my personal architectural design process, insight, ideas and inspiration. It’s as if I’m there with you, like a little architect on your shoulder.

From how to read and draw a plan to establishing and creating your brief, I guide you through the design concepts that will help you achieve your dream home. I show how to identify problem areas and pinch points in your home, and explain the discussions you should have with your design team and builder to allow you to be in control of your project from start to finish.

Armed with both an in-depth and unique knowledge of your home, combined with new drawing skills, I then explore design ideas and proposals to translate your brief and the fabric of your existing property into a home that is tailormade for you.

By giving a deep insight into my thought process, I’m seeking to democratise the whole concept of residential architectural design. The Handbook of Home Design gives you the tools to identify and communicate what’s really important to you, build your confidence and become the most important part of the creative process and the build. It is your home, after all.