Defining Your Vision

In this part of the process we’ll work on defining what you want your renovation or new build to not only look like, but more importantly how you want to live and feel within it.

The outcome of this process will help drive all of the design decisions moving forward to create not only a home that looks great to you, but also feels amazing to live in.

So grab your favourite drink and a quiet space, either by yourself or with the other members of your household and complete the following questions.

The information you provide here will help me to develop a design aesthetic customised to you, to ultimately create a home that reflects your unique style and has meaning to you and your family.

Name

First Name

Last Name

If you’ve already created a mood board or collected a number of images of homes, rooms or specific elements that you like, take a moment to review these and write down what you like about them. What do you see in these images that you’re attracted to and inspired by? What materials and textures are being used? Is there a common element or theme in the images that you like? Are there particular colours or patterns? If you can also share these images with me too.

Note: Don’t worry if you don’t have a mood board or collection of images, just move onto the next step.

Next, of the mood boards on my page https://www.opheliasagedesign.com/blog/whats-your-preferred-style, which two do you like the most. Explain what you like about them.

Most liked mood board number one is

What I like about it is

Most liked mood board number two is

What I like about it is

Least liked mood board is

What I don't like about it is

If there are elements about any of the other mood boards that you really like or dislike, feel free to include those as well.

Are there any destinations in the world you love in terms of their architecture, landscape, lifestyle? Write down what those are, what you like about them and how those places make you feel.

Do you have a favourite friend’s house or a hotel that you love? If the answer is yes, write down what you love about it? Are there elements you want in your own home? What are they?

Do you have a favourite artwork or artist? What do you like about it / their work?

Note: You don’t have to actually own the artwork, it could be a favourite piece in your local gallery.

Next, write down how you want to feel in your home; and how you want your home to feel. It can help to close your eyes and imagine your renovation or new build is complete, you’re sitting in your favourite spot or doing your favourite activity, how do you feel? If lots of words come to mind, that’s great, write them all down and then take some extra time to narrow down to your top three.

If you’re struggling with this one, I’ve listed a number of thought provokers below.

Top Three - In my new home I want to feel

Top Three - My newly finished home feels

Now thinking about the top three feelings of how you feel in your new home, what makes you feel this way?

What are you looking forward to most about living in your finished home?

The next section drills down a little more on some specifics you might want me to consider when making selections.

Are there any colours your particularly like or don’t like?

Are there any tapware finishes that you particularly like or don’t like?

Are healthy i.e. low tox or sustainable choices important to you? If the answer is yes, tell me a little more about this.

Do you want to incorporate ‘age in place’ / accessible / disability choices in your design selections? If this answer is yes, tell me a little more about this. I’ve included a number of areas that you might like to think about at the end of this document, if this is important to you and your project.

Do you have a preference for natural materials over potentially more durable man-made ones? Think timber vs vinyl / laminate flooring, natural stone vs man made stone benchtops.

Is your current furniture being kept and incorporated into your new home? List out the items you intend keeping below. If there is a lot, let me know and I'll share a seperate document where you can capture this.

Is your current artwork being kept and incorporated into your new home? List out any major artwork you intend keeping below. If you can also share photos.

Next Steps

Thanks so much for taking the time to complete this questionnaire. The information you have provided here will help me to develop a cohesive design aesthetic for your new home that is customised to you and your family, one that reflects your unique style and has meaning to you.

From here I will consider all the information you have supplied and if required contact you to clarify any areas. Next I will develop concept mood board/s to convey the overall feel, style and colour scheme of the proposed design aesthetic. I may present multiple options. The mood board/s will contain a collection of images, please note that although some product images may be included, they are not necessarily the actual products I will ultimately include in my recommendations. The purpose of the concept mood board/s is to initiate further discussion and seek your feedback, to ensure we're on the same page before bringing the design to life.

I look forward to working with you on the next steps of your exciting new build or renovation journey.

Age In Place Considerations

When designing or fitting out a new home with the goal of aging in place, there are several choices you can make to promote safety, accessibility, and comfort. Here are some age in place choices to consider:

Single-story living: Opt for a single-story floor plan to eliminate the need for stairs, making it easier to navigate the home as mobility decreases.
Wide doorways and halls: Design wider doorways and halls to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids.
Zero-step entry: Create a seamless entry with a zero-step threshold or a ramp to ensure easy access for individuals with mobility challenges.
Lever handles and rocker switches: Install lever-style door handles and rocker switches or touch-sensitive switches instead of traditional doorknobs and toggle switches, as they are easier to operate for those with limited dexterity.
Ample lighting: Incorporate abundant lighting throughout the home, including task lighting in work areas and motion-activated lights in hallways and bathrooms, to minimise the risk of falls and improve visibility.
Non-slip flooring: Use non-slip flooring materials, such as textured tiles or low-pile carpet, to reduce the chances of slipping and provide better traction.
Accessible bathroom features: Install grab bars in bathrooms, including by the toilet and in the shower, to offer stability and support. Consider a a raised toilet seat and curbless shower for easier access with a built-in bench and handheld showerhead. Ensure adequate space for maneuvering mobility aids within the bathroom. Incorporate lever-style faucets, touchless sensors, and easy-to-use controls in kitchens and bathrooms.
Adjustable countertops and cabinets: Design kitchen countertops and cabinets with adjustable heights to accommodate individuals of different heights or those who may use a wheelchair.
Open floor plan: Create an open floor plan to enhance manoeuvrability and provide ample space for mobility aids.
Reinforced walls: Reinforce walls in areas where grab bars might be needed in the future, even if they are not currently required, to allow for easy installation later.
Remote-controlled home automation: Incorporate home automation systems that can be controlled remotely or through voice commands to manage lighting, temperature, security, and other features without physical exertion. Ensure power outlets are easily accessible and placed at convenient heights.
Emergency response system: Consider installing an emergency response system that can quickly connect residents to medical assistance in case of emergencies.
Accessible storage: Design storage areas that are easily reachable and feature adjustable shelving or pull-out systems for convenient access.
Outdoor accessibility: Pay attention to outdoor spaces by incorporating ramps, handrails, and well-lit pathways to ensure easy access to the yard, garden, or any other outdoor areas.

Additional Reading

Defining Your Vision

Next Steps

Age In Place Considerations

Ophelia Sage Design