A major renovation can transform your home—but without careful preparation, it can become overwhelming. Whether you’re updating a Riviera villa, modernising an apartment, or renovating a second home remotely, the right groundwork is essential for a smooth and efficient project.
At Baie des Anges, we help clients navigate every stage of renovation, from planning to handover. Here’s our professional guide on how to prepare your home—and yourself—for a major building project.
1. Begin with a Clear Vision and Defined Goals
Before renovation begins, clarify exactly what you want to achieve.
Ask yourself:
- What problems need solving? (layout, lighting, style, comfort)
- Which spaces need the most investment?
- What is essential vs. optional?
- Are you updating for lifestyle or property value?
A clear vision helps your contractor create an accurate plan, avoid scope creep, and keep costs under control.
2. Conduct a Professional Assessment
Homes on the Côte d’Azur—especially older villas—often hide issues that cannot be seen at first glance.
Baie des Anges recommends a thorough assessment of:
- electrical systems
- plumbing and drainage
- structural stability
- insulation and waterproofing
- roofing and façades
- moisture or humidity risks
This prevents surprises once walls and floors are opened.
3. Establish a Realistic Budget (with a Buffer)
Renovation costs vary depending on materials, structural needs, and design goals.
Key budgeting rules:
- Include a 10–15% contingency for unexpected findings
- Prioritise essentials before aesthetics
- Choose durable materials suitable for coastal climates
- Request itemised quotes for clarity
A transparent budget is the foundation of a stress-free renovation.
4. Finalise Your Design & Material Choices Early
Last-minute decisions create delays.
To avoid costly pauses during construction:
- approve layouts early
- select tiles, flooring, fixtures, and finishes before work begins
- review 3D drawings or mood boards
- ensure materials are ordered in advance
Baie des Anges coordinates all selections so your project stays on schedule.
5. Plan Where You Will Live During the Renovation
Most large renovations require vacating some or all areas of the home.
Options include:
- temporarily relocating
- living in another part of the house if feasible
- scheduling works while you are abroad
- moving furniture into storage
For major works involving dust, noise, and water shutdowns, moving out is strongly recommended.
6. Protect Your Furniture, Valuables & Personal Items
Even the most careful contractors generate dust and vibrations.
Preparation checklist:
- pack and store artworks
- remove fragile items from shelves
- move furniture away from work zones
- use protective covers and wrapping
- store valuables securely outside the property
Baie des Anges can arrange professional storage if needed.
7. Understand the Timeline & Key Phases
Renovation happens in structured phases:
- Design & planning
- Permits (if required)
- Demolition
- Structural work
- Electrical & plumbing
- Insulation & drywall
- Flooring and finishes
- Carpentry & installations
- Painting & detailing
- Final cleaning and handover
Knowing this sequence helps you understand progress and expectations.
8. Prepare for Noise, Dust & Temporary Disruption
Even high-quality renovations come with temporary inconveniences.
Expect:
- construction noise
- limited access to some rooms
- dust control zones
- occasional water or power interruptions
At Baie des Anges, we minimise disruption through protective systems, careful planning, and daily site cleanliness.
9. Communicate Clearly with Your Contractor
Good communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures efficient decision-making.
We recommend:
- establishing one contact person
- scheduling weekly updates
- approving decisions promptly
- reviewing photos and reports if you live abroad
At Baie des Anges, we use structured communication tools to keep clients fully informed.
10. Trust the Process—But Stay Involved
Renovation success requires teamwork.
Homeowners should:
- stay engaged with design decisions
- ask questions when uncertain
- keep track of changes
- rely on their contractor’s expertise
Baie des Anges ensures clients feel supported from concept to completion.
Prepare with Confidence—Renovate with Baie des Anges
A major renovation is an exciting opportunity to improve comfort, beauty, and long-term value. With the right preparation, the process becomes smooth, efficient, and rewarding.
Choosing Baie des Anges ensures:
✔ clear planning and transparent budgeting
✔ full permit handling and technical checks
✔ careful site protection
✔ premium Mediterranean materials
✔ reliable, on-time execution
✔ turnkey delivery from start to finish
We transform Côte d’Azur homes with expertise, elegance, and precision.