What Are the 5 Different Types of Renovation?

A renovation or remodelling project breathes new life into a property. Thanks to the range of renovation projects available, you may personalise upgrades to your specific needs and preferences. There is an option for every business or homeowner, whether they want to improve energy efficiency and aesthetics or enlarge the available space.

Today, we’ll discuss the five types of renovation projects according to the property type, room type or project size. Let’s look at the various improvements you can make so you can choose the most appropriate for you.

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1. According to the Type of Property

We can categorise renovation projects according to the type of property you’re dealing with. In that sense, they can be residential, commercial or new-build.

These projects differ in many ways, but mainly in the intent behind the renovation and the needs of the people occupying the space.

Commercial projects can involve upgrades and changes to offices, cafes and restaurants, gyms and many other types of businesses. However, these come with their challenges, such as financial losses due to downtime and lack of working space during the process.

However, a residential property is much more different. Houses, flats, cottages or apartments all need to match the individual lifestyle of their owner and be the place they can’t wait to get to after a long day at work.

On the other hand, newcomers in newly built apartments and houses typically arrive in interiors that are essentially “naked” and devoid of flooring, tiling, bathroomware, and other essential elements. These projects aim to “dress up” the interior space by incorporating these fundamental elements, transforming the bare structures into fully functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces.

That’s why it’s essential to differentiate between the various types of property renovations and address them according to their challenges.

Residential and Home Improvements

Home renovations can improve your living area, increasing comfort and overall quality of life. Sometimes, these changes may be both expensive and time-consuming. However, when done right, you will get a return on investment.

As a homeowner, you can choose from a never-ending variety of options for your private space. You can tailor it to your personal preferences and lifestyle, thus enhancing its overall aesthetics, property value, practicality, and functionality in your day-to-day life.

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Commercial and Business Space Renovations

The primary goals of any commercial renovation endeavour are consistent: enhance functionality and improve visual appeal. However, the reasons to undertake such a project vary between business owners, and thus, they enjoy different benefits.

Such reasons may include, but are not limited to:

  • Improving energy efficiency and cost savings
  • Maximising working space
  • Boosting employee productivity and morale
  • Improving safety
  • Attracting more clients
  • Staying on top of market trends
  • Matching a rebranding strategy.

Investing in these aspects yields significant benefits whether you conduct business at a café, a hotel, or commercial real estate.

For example, upgrading an office space to enhance comfort and safety can improve employee performance. Similarly, revitalising a restaurant with a fresh design can attract new customers eager to experience the chefs’ delicious dishes.

New Build or Post-construction Renovation

New build renovation, also known as post-construction renovation, is the process of improving and refining the interiors of newly constructed residential properties. 

When workers complete the construction of a new apartment complex or housing project, the interiors are often left in a basic, unfinished state. The primary focus of a new building refurbishment project is to incorporate fundamental components such as toilets, sinks, flooring, and fixtures to complete the interiors and adapt them for everyday living.

Here, customisation is one of the key aspects. Homeowners or property investors can tailor the interiors according to their preferences and needs. This involves selecting materials, colours, and designs for flooring, tiles, and fixtures that align with the desired aesthetic and functionality. 

New build renovation projects also commonly involve integrating modern technology and energy-efficient features, aligning the space with contemporary living standards.

In addition to aesthetics and customisation, these projects often address any potential construction deficiencies or oversights that may have occurred during the initial build. This could include fixing structural issues, optimising spatial layouts, and ensuring that all aspects of the interior meet the required safety and building codes. 

Overall, new build renovations are comprehensive processes that not only add personal touches to a space but also ensure that it meets the highest standards of functionality and safety.

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2. According to the Room Type

Every part of your home or business has unique features and purpose. That is why you need detailed planning and a tailored approach for each one of them. Let’s look at the most common renovations in different types of rooms.

Kitchen Renovations

When renovating a kitchen, the main focus is improving functionality, incorporating durable materials and modernising kitchen appliances.

Often, kitchens need space optimisation and improvements in layout and features for efficient workflow. That may include anything from custom cabinets to installing a kitchen island. Splashback and flooring renewals are also not uncommon for such remodelling projects. 

Bathroom Renovations

Bathroom renovations are one of the most common types of home and commercial renovations.

Whether in residential or commercial, new or old buildings, these rooms often need more space and professional layout optimisation.

Safety and accessibility are also crucial factors that affect the process. Many people want or decide to create safe spaces for senior citizens or people with disabilities.

Attic and Loft Renovations

Converting an unused loft into a habitable space is a popular option for homeowners across Ireland. A loft conversion is a cost-effective solution to improve living areas, with prices starting at €15,000 and increasing up to €45,000 for more complex projects.

Converting an attic into a functional area is a strategic extension, adding square meters to a house without compromising available outdoor garden space. However, loft conversions often entail structural modifications since the original construction may not have been designed to support the weight of an additional story. 

Living Room Renovations

The living or family room is one of the most frequently used rooms in any home, serving as the principal gathering place for family and guests. Many people plan remodelling projects for these rooms to improve comfort and safety.

Common adaptations in such projects include:

  • Adding comfortable seating
  • Utilising space
  • Open floor plans
  • Building and removing partition walls.

Bedroom Renovations

After a long and tiring day, the bedroom serves as a sanctuary to many. Renovating it can transform this part of the home into a soothing and refreshing retreat. 

Complete bedroom renovations often include space utilisation techniques such as removing barriers or partitions to make the room look more spacious. Another way to achieve the same goal is to focus on smart storage solutions.

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3. According to the Project Size

Home renovation projects can be classified into three different types based on what value they add to the residential or commercial property. Each of them has its own set of considerations and potential impact on property value. Choosing which type to pursue will depend on your goals, budget, and specific needs.

Basic or Partial Renovations

Basic necessary repairs are very different from upgrades that may raise a property’s cost. 

Basic renovations address existing issues and ensure the house remains in good condition. While these jobs are essential for the property’s well-being, they may not significantly impact the property’s market value or attractiveness to potential buyers.

Examples of basic renovation jobs include fixing a leaking roof, repairing cracked walls, and undertaking simple remodelling of old kitchens or bathrooms.

Cosmetic Upgrades and Refurbishments

The cosmetic renovation aims to boost a house’s visual allure to captivate potential buyers. These renovations often involve adding features that enhance aesthetics and contribute to the overall charm of the property. 

Common cosmetic home renovation tasks include:

  • Outdoor additions – Including yards or decks to extend the living space outdoors.
  • Natural light – Installing large windows to flood interiors with natural light to create a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Spatial expansion – adding living spaces to increase the functionality and appeal of the home.
  • Warm lighting – incorporating warm lighting to create a cosy and inviting ambience.
  • Modern upgrades – upgrading rooms, especially kitchens and bathrooms, to modern standards, including smart technologies and installing energy-efficient appliances.
  • Fresh colour palette – repainting the entire house to give it a fresh and contemporary look.

Major or Gut Renovations

Beginning a major home renovation is a considerable undertaking, comprising many factors, from selecting the ideal contractor to managing day-to-day life during remodelling. 

Gut renovations vary but commonly involve:

  • Home extensions that increase living space to meet changing needs.
  • Conversion of multi-unit dwellings into single-family homes.
  • Complete system rebuild to modernise electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems for increased efficiency.
  • Enhancing insulation to improve energy efficiency.
  • Structural modifications, such as changing load-bearing parts to increase structural integrity.
  • Exterior envelope replacement to increase the home’s aesthetics and functionality.

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4. According to the Location

Renovations can also be divided into internal and external depending on the project’s location. 

Internal Renovations

Internal renovations are a versatile and effective approach to revitalising a property. They allow for considerable modifications and rebuilding of entire sections or small refurbishments, such as replacing kitchen or bathroom cabinets. These changes can have a significant impact on the appearance and functionality of your home.

External Renovations

An external home renovation can completely transform the appearance of a property, increasing curb appeal and creating a lovely outdoor area to spend free time and relax.

Insulation, landscaping, fresh paint, new additions, and intentional architectural alterations can all be part of such a project. 

While homeowners often prioritise interior design renovations, exterior home refacing is an overlooked yet valuable investment. 

Exterior renovations offer several advantages:

  • Improved functionality – it may involve optimising outdoor spaces, improving the flow between indoor and outdoor areas, or enhancing the structural integrity of the exterior.
  • Enhanced appearance – Updating the facade and landscaping or adding new exterior features can transform the overall aesthetic, boosting curb appeal and creating a positive first impression.
  • Increased market value – a visually appealing and well-maintained exterior attracts potential buyers, making your property more desirable in the real estate market.
  • Energy efficiency – installing energy-efficient windows, doors, and insulation reduces utility costs and aligns with sustainable living practices.

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5. According to the Expertise

When starting a home renovation project, the key to success is making informed decisions while considering the worker’s skill level, experience, and complexity. 

DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Projects

DIY renovation projects have many pros and cons. 

For example, painting, re-grouting tiles, and power washing the exterior might not require a hefty budget. Yet, these hands-on home improvement projects can enhance your home’s worth.

In addition, there’s no need to accumulate debt or dip into your savings. 

By investing some time and effort, adopting a DIY mindset, and sparing just a few bucks, you can potentially increase the listing price of your home when the time comes to sell. Even if you’re not gearing up for a sale, these cost-effective home improvements ensure you relish a more aesthetically pleasing living space.

However, such projects come with their challenges. The level of handyman skills is only a part of them. DIY projects take patience and considerable time, which not every homeowner with a full-time job has. Another risk is that you may not achieve the result you expect or strive for.

Depending on their handy skills, homeowners can perform various DIY tasks:

  • Paint the walls.
  • Install crown molding.
  • Update simple fixtures.
  • Install ceiling fans.
  • Install new window treatments.
  • Uncover and refinish hardwood floors.
  • Clean the fireplace.
  • Install new bathroom tile.
  • Update bathroom fixtures.
  • Paint the new kitchen cabinets.

Professional Renovation Services

Professional home renovation services typically make the entire process less stressful and worrisome. That is, of course, if you work with a reputable company and experienced workers.

Choosing a renovation company to work on your project instead of relying on your own skills offers several advantages.

Let’s take a look at some of them:

  • Avoiding serious risks – mistakes during the renovation process can cost you a lot – from structural damage to health and safety hazards. Hiring a professional to do the job ensures you won’t have to deal with such issues. 
  • High-quality work – company workers and their extensive experience in the field offer you the benefit of a job well done up to the last small detail.
  • It saves you time – instead of spending numerous hours planning, researching materials, tiling or plastering, you can use this time for other tasks related to your work, family or leisure time.

Cost of Different Types of Renovation

Most of the time, costs are highly dependent on the scale of the project. Of course, things like labour and the quality of materials also need to be considered, but the larger the project – residential or commercial, the more it will cost.

Here is a simple breakdown:

  • Whole-house renovations – the average cost of renovating a whole home is about €48,000, or €10 to €60 per square meter. Larger homes or projects, including custom designs and luxury materials, might cost over €200,000.
  • Demolition work and remodelling – gutting a house down and then reconstructing it to change the layout and functionality completely is a significant investment.
  • Historic home renovations – renovating historic homes requires special considerations and expenditures ranging from €100 to €200 per square meter.
  • Home extensions – adding more usable space through extensions may cost anywhere between €22,000 and €80,000. Foundational work, wall framing, siding installation, drywall and insulation, and interior finishing contribute to the ultimate cost.
  • Kitchen renovations – renovating a kitchen starts at €8,000, a price that can vary based on various factors, including square footage, materials, appliances, labour costs and more.
  • Bathroom renovations – a basic bathroom renovation can cost anywhere from €3,000 to €7,000. More complex projects or high-end finishes can change the cost to €8,000-€15,000 or more. 

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When to Consider a Renovation?

While renovations are always an option for aesthetic reasons, they might sometimes become necessary. Given that they are accompanied by significant expenditures, especially when working with professionals and high-quality materials, it’s best to know the indications for an investment in a refurbishment project.

Here’s a short list:

  • Visible wear and tear – tiny spider cracks in the walls, leaking bathroom tiles, and worn-out flooring indicate that your property requires repair.
  • High electricity costs – your monthly bills may indicate unnecessary energy expenditures caused by inefficient appliances or insulation.
  • Damp spots – damp spots on walls or ceilings indicate moisture problems that may be related to inadequate waterproofing or insulation, poor ventilation or plumbing problems.
  • Worn-out tiles – worn-out tiles and fixtures in rooms such as the bathroom or the kitchen are an indication that it’s time to freshen up the interior.
  • You need more space – maybe you have a new family member, or your business is expanding – whatever the case is, you feel like you need additional square footage. Then, it’s time to consider a remodelling job, attic/basement conversion or an extension.
  • You are selling your property – if you plan on selling or renting out and want to make the most out of the opportunity, you may want to consider a renovation project to improve curb appeal and property value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Different Types of Renovations?

Renovation projects can be categorised into residential, commercial, new-build and other types.

What Are the Benefits of External Renovations?

External renovations, including facade, landscaping, and outdoor improvements, enhance curb appeal, increase property value, and improve energy efficiency. 

What Are the Benefits of Hiring Professional Renovation Services?

With experienced workers and attention to detail, professionals deliver superior results, making the renovation process less stressful and more efficient for homeowners.