If you're looking to do a home renovation or build a new house altogether, the planning process is one of the most exciting, and stressful, parts of the project. With many of us spending more time at home than ever before, now’s the time to dream big.

To help get you started, here are five tips for your next big home project, whether it’s a new pool, basement makeover, safe room addition, or even constructing a new house from scratch.

Factor in your lifestyle

Think about your priorities and lifestyle — do you work remotely without a proper home office? Do you enjoy cooking and entertaining? Is your backyard living up to its potential as an extension of your home? Asking these kinds of questions can help you determine the most beneficial focus for your next project.

Educate yourself

A home makeover is a big investment, and any decisions you make will hopefully last for years to come. So take some time to learn about materials, processes, and new innovations you can incorporate in your designs. You can make smarter purchasing decisions by finding out the answers to key questions, such as:

• How long will it last?
• Is this material resistant to mold, everyday wear and tear, water?
• Is this a passing fad or will it stand the test of time?
• Does it add value to my home? 
• Can I save money in the long-term with some upfront investment?

Consider sustainability

Products and materials that reduce your carbon footprint don’t just help the planet — they’re often better for your wallet, too. When doing your research, look for energy-efficient appliances, windows, walls, and more to build a greener home that will last longer and save you money in the long run.

You can also check to see that the products you’re considering using are made of eco-friendly materials by reviewing its Declare label, or if they contribute to green certification programs, such as LEED green building rating systems.

Disaster-proof your design

From natural disasters to fires and flooding, we need our homes to offer as much protection as possible. Whether you’re planning an extension to your home, pools and spas for your backyard, or a custom-built home, Nudura insulated concrete forms are a smart investment.

An eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials like wood, ICF homes are disaster resilient, which means they can withstand high winds, fire and impact from flying debris. Plus, they create a well-insulated home for a more comfortable indoor environment and significant cost savings on your monthly energy bills.

Plan for smart splurges and savings

Budgeting is one of the most important parts of the planning process, because you want to spend your hard-earned money wisely. You’ll want to splurge on items that will boost your property value, like energy-efficient features, creating more living space, and a solid foundation.

Meanwhile, consider other areas where you can save money, such as upcycling and repurposing furniture, DIY-ing simpler projects like painting, and spending more on nicer hardware but less on cabinets.

Find more inspiration and ideas for your new home build or renovation in our residential applications gallery featuring ICF homes from across North America.