❤️ Introducing Real Build Stories
We’re so excited to launch Real Build Stories, a new series where we celebrate the journeys of people building or renovating their homes.
We’re kicking things off with Zilia and Broderick from Queensland, a hardworking couple renovating their home one weekend at a time while balancing full-time jobs and bringing their vision for a beautiful, personal space to life.
🏡 Renovating Together: A Slow and Steady Approach
For Zilia and her partner, renovating is less about instant transformation and more about creating a home they truly love at their own pace.
"We’re doing it together on weekends because we both work full-time,” Zilia shares. “Sometimes we just want to relax, so it feels like it’s taking forever – but we’re getting there.”
While there’s often pressure to finish a build or renovation quickly, their story is a reminder that it’s okay to move slowly and enjoy the process.
✨ Tip for weekend renovators:
If you’re balancing work and renovations, plan small, achievable projects for weekends. Painting a single room or swapping out hardware can give you a sense of accomplishment without overwhelming your schedule.
🎨 The Power of Small Changes
Their favourite part so far? The surprising impact of little upgrades.
"Seeing how much of a difference something like painting a room or changing door handles can make is so rewarding," Zilia says. Simple updates can completely change the feel of a space without requiring a full renovation budget.
✨ Quick wins to try at home:
✅ Swap outdated cabinet handles for modern ones
✅ Refresh walls with a warm neutral paint colour.
✅ Add statement light fixtures for instant character
⏳ The Challenges of Renovating Around Work
Like many renovators, time has been their biggest challenge.
"It’s easy to feel like the projects are never-ending," Zilia admits. “Sometimes you just want to switch off for a weekend and that’s okay.”
If you’re working full-time and renovating on the side, here are some ways to stay motivated:
✅ Break the project into bite sized tasks. Focus on one room or area at a time.
✅ Set realistic timelines. Accept that some things will take longer than planned.
✅ Celebrate small milestones. Finishing a coat of paint or hanging new curtains deserves recognition.
💛 Zilia’s Advice for Other Renovators
"As long as you’re doing things safely, have fun with it. It’s very easy to get caught up in focusing only at the finish line, but the journey itself is what it’s all about. Truthfully, I could listen to my own advice because I’m still practicing this"
📱 Follow Their Story
Want to see more of Zilia & Broderick’s renovation progress? Follow them on Instagram: @renotogether.
We can’t wait to bring you more Real Build Stories in the weeks ahead featuring everyday people transforming houses into homes, one project at a time.
🛠 Staying Organised
“We used our Co Home Build & Renovation Planner to keep track of our progress. It’s been an amazing tool to keep everything organised and store it all in one place.”
