Small homes and studios

Entry Renovation Planning for Small homes and studios

Survey existing services and finishes before committing to a demolition or reuse plan. Identify what can stay and where hidden work may surface.

Explore the ideas
Living area with a glass partition beside a television wall
Entry inspiration: glazed separation that preserves borrowed light.

Walkthrough checklist

  1. Record existing walls, openings, services and damage, then verify uncertain items with the appropriate trade.
  2. Separate required repairs from optional replacements so quotes show where the budget goes.
  3. Agree which access, isolation, removal and protection steps are needed before work starts.
Worked example

An older entry has an uneven floor and a door that appears to scrape only during humid weather.

Record the floor levels and door movement before specifying new flooring or trimming the door. Ask the appropriate trade to inspect the cause and identify what work could affect the scope.

How to test it

Walk through the marked-up plan with the installer and record conditions that would change scope or cost.

Apply it to this space
Layout
Set a narrow landing shelf and hooks on the hinge-side wall, outside the door swing.
Detail
Use a compact closed shoe cabinet and a durable washable mat.
Trade-off
Closed storage hides clutter but may be too shallow for bulky shoes or bags.
  • Check door swing and passage width
  • Try the actual bags and footwear stored there
Living room seating group with a clear approach from the front of the room
Arrival inspiration: keep the first route into the room open.

The Elixir portfolio

Details worth a closer look

Photographs for design inspiration
Entry corridor leading toward a dining area beside a glass-front cabinet
Entry inspiration: a clear approach and shallow landing storage.
Wood display partition between an entry-side passage and living room
Entry inspiration: a permeable divider that softens direct sightlines.

Related design guides

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