DiscoverStories from Site - Renovation Podcast
Stories from Site - Renovation Podcast
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Stories from Site - Renovation Podcast

Author: HomeNotes

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Welcome to Stories from Site, the podcast for renovation enthusiasts. Each week we’ll be chatting with a different home renovator, to peek behind the curtains of those insta-worthy interiors to bring you the REAL processes they went through to make their dream homes a reality. 


This podcast is sponsored by Plykea 

Beautiful plywood doors and worktops for IKEA kitchens


76 Episodes
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Once the build starts, a renovation enters a completely different phase. In this episode of Home Truths, we talk about the realities of life on site - how communication, decision-making and money flow through a project once construction begins. We discuss how productive site meetings work, how the builder-client-designer relationship functions day to day, and why tensions sometimes arise during a build. The conversation also explores the financial side of construction: interim payments, varia...
Preparing for build sounds straightforward - but it’s often where the biggest site problems begin. In this episode of Home Truths, we talk through what really needs to happen before that first hammer swings. From construction drawings and technical specifications to the many design decisions that quietly affect how a project gets built, we explain why preparation is one of the most important phases of any renovation. We also unpack the practical realities most homeowners don’t anticipate: acc...
In this episode of Home Truths, Amy and Jane unpack the legal foundations every homeowner should have in place before work begins. We cover what actually needs to be in writing — from scope and programme to payment terms and change control — and why handshake agreements so often fall apart once time, money and stress enter the picture. You’ll also learn: The key insurance types every project should have (public liability, employers’ liability, contract works)Who is responsible for what — cont...
In this episode of Home Truths, we unpack one of the most pivotal — and often confusing, stages of any renovation: receiving and reviewing quotes. We talk about why prices can differ dramatically, the difference between budgets, estimates and quotes, and why a single lump sum isn’t enough to make an informed decision. Jane explains how to properly review a tender, what a cost breakdown should include, and how to compare builders fairly, so you’re not caught out later. We also cover the hidden...
We’re back with a new series of Home Truths — and we’re starting with one of the biggest decisions in any renovation: choosing the right builder. Before quotes, budgets or contracts, this choice can quietly make or break your project. In this episode, we talk about: where to actually find builders,how to vet them properly (without losing your mind),early red flags to watch out for,and the questions you should be asking before prices ever come back.If you’re renovating — or planning to — this ...
In this bonus episode, Amy and Jane round up their key takeaways and top tips shared by the renovators in the tenth series of the Stories from Site podcast. They discuss the common themes that emerge across the series, including the different methods people have employed to keep costs down, as well as the advice that they're personally taking on board in their own renovations. Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: home...
This week we talked with Kate about renovating her Georgian farmhouse. Better known on Instagram as Renovate like Kate. She talks us through her hands-on approach to home renovation from her early projects in London to her family's big move to Leicestershire. Get yourselves ready for plenty of practical advice and insights into balancing renovation with family life. Find Kate's project on instagram @renovatelikekate Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchen...
In this episode, we're joined by Vita who tells the story of finding the right house and working closely with the architects and builders to make her dream home. Vita shares how she balanced budgets and aesthetics, navigated tough decisions, and ultimately created a space that feels both intentional and inspiring. You can find Vita's project on instagram @belgravehome Project architects: @proparchitects Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitche...
This week, we talk with Natallia and Matt who share their remarkable ten-year DIY journey. Starting with a modest London flat, they built skills, overcame challenges, and created a home that won an award at this year’s Don’t Move, Improve awards. It’s a story of persistence, creativity, and what’s possible when you take renovation into your own hands. You can find Natallia on instagram @natalliatanko and if you want to find out more about her Architecture practice, check out her website...
This week we are joined by Karen who talks to us about her renovation of a semi-detached Edwardian house in Manchester. Karen shares the role her architect played, as well as the challenges of turning a dark house into a bright and welcoming family home. You can find Sarah from Another architecture + interiors on instagram @another_a_i Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenot...
In this episode, we speak with Issey about transforming her 1960s Maisonette. With her background in interior architecture and the sharp eye for design, Issey shares how she and her partner created a light filled home on a careful budget and the inspiration that guided their choices along the way. Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>
In this episode, we speak with Robyn, who shares how she transformed a budget friendly 1930s home into a bold, joyful space with the help of architects Office S&M. It's a story about colour collaboration and creating a home that radiates happiness. Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Try the HomeNotes App; Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webin...
In this final episode of our mini series Home Truths, we discuss why your renovation project is likely to take longer than expected. We break down a typical project timeline, highlight factors that contribute to delays, and offer tips on how to stay on track. Join us as we share valuable insights to help you avoid a stressful renovation experience. Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenot...
Welcome to our special mini-series, Home Truths. In this episode we dive in to how you can add value through your own work on your project, also known as ‘sweat equity’. We discuss the complexities of taking on roles like project manager and main contractor, highlight the importance of coordination, and delve into potential cost-saving strategies such as handling party wall notices, kitchen design, and decoration yourself. Gain top tips to avoid stress and ensure your proj...
Welcome to our special mini-series, Home Truths. In this episode, we delve into the top 10 things to avoid if you want a smooth renovation process. From choosing the right team and being honest about your budget, to dedicating enough time and avoiding mid-project changes, we cover it all. Whether you're just starting, in the middle, or thinking about a renovation, this episode is packed with advice that will save you time, stress, and money. Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.p...
Welcome to our special mini-series, Home Truths. In this episode, we dive into whether renovating is truly worth it from a financial perspective and explore how it impacts your time, energy, relationships, and lifestyle. We discuss how to assess the financial viability of renovations, research local property values, and consult estate agents. If you're debating whether to renovate or relocate, this episode is for you! Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: ...
Welcome to the third episode of our mini-series 'Home Truths,' where we debunk renovation myths and share insights to help avoid stressful projects. Did you know house renovations can strain relationships, with nearly one in ten British couples splitting up? We delve into the underlying reasons, from financial stress to how renovations impact future planning and relationships. We also share strategies to prevent relationship breakdowns during renovations, emphasising open communic...
Welcome to our special mini series called Home Truths, where we are going to talk about common misconceptions in the world of renovating, bust some budget myths and basically shine a light on how to avoid a stressful renovation. In this episode, explore how to balance high design dreams with tight budgets. Discover the types of renovation projects—space-efficient, bespoke, and a hybrid of the two. Learn the challenges and strategies for mixing cost-effective methods with bespoke element...
Welcome to our special mini series called Home Truths, where we are going to talk about common misconceptions in the world of renovating, bust some budget myths and basically shine a light on how to avoid a stressful renovation. In this episode of Home Truths, we wanted to talk about why no one wants to tell you how much your project is going to cost. If you’re renovating, you probably have experienced this for yourself, and no, you're not going mad! We get right into the nitty gritty o...
In this bonus episode, Amy and Jane round up their key takeaways and top tips shared by the renovators in the eighth series of the Stories from Site podcast. They discuss the importance of finding the right tradespeople and managing the complexities of different project management styles. Plus using their new renovation app to balance budgeting, and decision-making, and to ensure project alignment. Sponsored by Plykea; Web: https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you b...
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Comments (2)

ASMR Katie

Are you looking for home renovation contractor that is dealing with epdm-roofing? It is not so hard like it seems. EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, that is a rubber roofing membrane. When it comes to home renovations, I know all the ins and outs of building a house from the ground up. That is why https://www.homequote.io/near-me/roofing/epdm-roofing is a trusted platform where you can find the whole information about contractors dealing with this type of roofing, who are working in your area and approximate prices.

Aug 7th
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Kate Taralin

Contractor platfom is a home repair and house renovation service in the country. I'm going to tell you all about this company, what they do and how they can help you.

Jul 22nd
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