TikTok's top architect says: "Don't cut these reno corners!"

If you've ever stumbled across the social media accounts of Australia's most-followed architect, then you will know that Georgina Wilson is deeply passionate about creating, and recreating, homes that are not only visually captivating but also enhance the way we live day to day.

With half a million followers across Instagram, Tiktok and YouTube, there is a good chance you've seen the award-winning architect's practical and pragmatic renovation advice, particularly on her hugely popular 'Ask an Architect' segments.

Wilson, who is the founder and principal architect of Georgina Wilson Associates, says for people undertaking a home renovation within a specific budget, whether you're knocking down walls or just refreshing a tired space, there is always the temptation to cut corners to reduce costs.

And unlike many architects, she says you sure can cut costs, but you must do it wisely, because the choices you make today can shape how you live for years to come.

Bigger isn't always better

Wilson advises that one of the key ways to reduce costs without compromising on your renovation is to only build what you need.

"Every square metre counts. Keep your design lean and purposeful by reducing unnecessary circulation space and maximising the areas you'll actually live in and enjoy," she says.

Similarly, she says you should always design for efficiency and contain the scope of any new additions or extensions.

"A clever design can help you achieve more with less. Look for opportunities to simplify forms, streamline detailing, and reduce structural complexity without compromising on beauty or function," Wilson says.

"If you can, renovate a smaller section of your home and keep the new build elements concentrated in one area.

"This helps reduce complex integration issues and limits the need for costly structural changes throughout," she says.

Wilson adds that while the idea of staging the timing of your build might be tempting for budgeting purposes, it can be more costly in the long run.

"Building in stages often ends up costing significantly more. If possible, tackle the work in one go, it's far more economical and avoids the pitfalls of stop-start construction," she says.

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Good design is worth every dollar

While Wilson says there are some features of a renovation that you can save your hard-earned money on, there are other elements that are strictly non-negotiable.

First and foremost, she says never cut corners on good design advice.

"A well-considered design is the foundation of a successful home. Cutting corners here leads to ongoing compromises that affect the way you live and usually ends up costing more in the long run," Wilson says.

Her other non-negotiables include roofing and waterproofing.

"If your home can't keep the weather out, nothing inside it matters. Invest in the right details to protect everything beneath," she says.

Similarly, she says good quality tiles and a skilled tiler are invaluable.

"The cost of tiling is mostly in the labour and waterproofing. Using low-quality tiles to save money is rarely worth it, invest in finishes that elevate the space and stand the test of time.

When it comes to other interior features, Wilson stresses that lighting is critical to creating ambience in the home and should never be overlooked.

"Lighting has a huge impact on mood and atmosphere. A few well-chosen fixtures can completely transform a space."

If you are working to a particularly tight budget, she suggests "selecting fewer pieces but make them count."

And finally, while many home renovators might be tempted to get out the paint and long-handled roller brush themselves to save money, Wilson says it is worth considering bringing in the professionals.

"A great paint job brings everything together and gives the home its final polish. Poor painting can let down even the most beautiful design. It's worth doing properly."

Find out more: Georgina Wilson and Associates Architecture