an architect or architectural draftsperson would make a detailsed site inspection, discuss your wants, needs and budget, design a renovation and guide you through the process of applying for approval to build etc but many people find it useful to first experiment with ideas on HOUZZ before you need to get serious but we need more information..do you have a site plan showing the house on the block of land, the length and width of the block and distance from the outside walls to front, rear and both side boundaries, what is the distance from the house to the garage,how many bedrooms, living areas, bathrooms and garages do you want, what are the walls floors and roof built out of (including the garage} describe the local climate, and where is north and can you posts some photos including a Google earth picture of the roof?

Thank you for your prompt response, first post in here and didnt expect such a detailed response. I can answer some of those questions but will gather more information as requested and respond. Thank you so much

You are planning a renovation this complex not involving an architect is a false economy that you will pay for later. This is a $x00K+ job and you want to cut out the skilled labour that will make sure the changes work, are cost effective and properly staged?

Your partner is sensible and correct. Get an architect. This is not something for hobbyists and free advice. Save that for your cushion and rug choces.

Yes it’s a substantial list of work. Doing a Reno where you maybe remove a wall or two and reconfigure kitchen and bathroom may not need an architect but your wish list will require a substantial investment and an architect is valuable. Do your research, Meet with a few to make sure they will suit you and your style. It should be a collaborative process so you must like and respect each other. Reference check too with other clients
Good luck.

As someone who is just going through what was to be a renovation but has turned out to be a knockdown/rebuild, I’d second the suggestion that discussion and research on Houzz before speaking to an Architect is invaluable. I’d also add, if it’s possible, discuss your ideas with a reputable builder before and during the planning process, even if this involves reimbursing the builder for his time. Knowing your budget and your must haves, and emphasising this (frequently) to whoever designs your project will save everyone time and trouble. As will taking your time and thinking through how the new layout will work on a practical level. Good Luck

First, develop yourself a Houzz file on what you like, mulled it over, edit into rooms and rank preferences. Gather as much info on your house as possible, plans, surveys and utility plans. List on paper how you use spaces, dislikes, likes and photos of your nightmares. Then seek advice, if it substantial eg moving weight bearing walls you will need an architect and engineer.

You should check out my service which has been designed for people like you who are on their renovation journey. I specialize in mid-century and post-war renovations. Check out my reviews on Houzz, or visit my "Wall of Love" to read about what other owners of 1960's brick veneer homes have said about how I have helped them.

Each consultation is designed as a stand-alone consultation (usually about 2 hours) to provide you with the right information to help you make a decision about your next step, and to discuss the pros and cons of each option. There is no obligation after the consultation to use my design services. While I am based in Melbourne you can see from my "Wall of Love" that I cover a much larger territory.

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If you need to know anything about a "Dr Retro House Call" for your home please do not hesitate to contact me,

Dr Retro

of Dr Retro House Calls/Dr Retro Virtual Visits.

Before talking to someone, have a budget and as clear as possible what you want. Before speaking to an architect and eventually depending on the scope of works (you will need to), Have as clear of an idea of what you want in plan A and prepare for plan B and another list of things you wont compromise on. Ask around from family and friends, everyone has a success story or horror story from their reno. Also speak to someone who specialises in your home design like Dr Retro. Different houses can require different things. Someone who knows about your home can save precious time (time is money) trying to figure out the best approach to tackling the job.