10 steps to cutting the cost of a Reno

If the budget’s tight, follow our tips to make the most of it by wasting less and doing more

- By Alison Jones

Wood-effect vinyl planks look as stunning as real wood, but are an affordable and practical alternative. Alpha Vinyl medium plank, Cotton Oak in Cold Grey, from £47.99 per m2, Quick-Step

1 Work it out

Assess your needs and wants for your home and consider whether it can be done without the most expensive building works, i.e. an extension or anything requiring planning permission. A dream open-plan kitchen might be achieved by moving or removing an internal wall and repositioning doors to create better flow. You could even change rooms around. If one half of a through-lounge is seldom used, repurpose it as a kitchen diner, and move the living area to a cosier space. Also be aware of the ceiling value of your street. Money spent on an ambitious renovation that doesn’t add the same or more in value could be money wasted.

Create the luxury look of real marble with laminate panels you can fit yourself. Contemporary yet timeless, they offer boutique hotel chic on a B&B budget. Veneto Marble laminate panels, from £180.28 per panel, Showerwall

2 Take control