Budget

July 28, 2022

Designer Sappho Griffin Shares Advice On How To Budget For A Reno

As any house hunter knows, having a little serendipity on your side makes all the difference. That was certainly true for designer Sappho Griffin, principal of Henhouse Interiors, who stumbled across her new home in Bedford, N.S., in 2017. “The owner ran a wonderful after-school program in the house, and I sent my kids to her a few times when I was in a pinch,” says Sappho. “She asked me to assess her house for sale and I was drawn to the layout, which was perfect for our family.” Knowing they had an inside advantage, Sappho and her husband acted quickly, and submitted an offer.

Built in the 1940s with original details like the decorative plaster ceilings still in place, the raised ranch house has two bedrooms (each with its own lounge) on the lower level for their two teens, along with a laundry room, full bath and storage room. The upper level houses the principal ensuite, a bedroom for their 10-year-old, two mudrooms and living rooms, the kitchen and dining room, as well as the office and powder room. “There was nothing that needed to change floor plan–wise,” says Sappho. “There were mostly only cosmetic changes to do, which was good, as I was building my design firm and didn’t want a large project.” As for the budget, she capped costs at $130,000 and set a realistic wish list. Using her discerning eye and a disciplined budget, she got the home of her dreams.

Keep scrolling for a look inside, plus get tips on budgeting for your own home renovation!