Renovation might be finished - but the real challenge starts when you move back in. In this episode, we’re joined by Hazel Burton from The Home Reset to talk about how to stay clutter-free and organised throughout a renovation.

What we cover

• How renovation creates a rare blank slate opportunity
• Why decluttering should happen before you move
• A simple system: keep, donate/sell or discard
• Designing storage around your real habits - not Pinterest ideals
• How to invest in the right storage for your home
• A step-by-step approach to moving back in without chaos
• How to maintain a clutter-free home long-term

Key takeaways

• If you wouldn’t buy it again, don’t bring it back
• Where you use something is where it should live
• One-in, one-out keeps your home from overflowing
• Simple systems beat perfect systems every time

About our guest:

Hazel Burton is the founder of The Home Reset, helping people create a "Hassle Free Home"

This episode is your guide to not undoing all the hard work of your renovation by bringing the clutter back in.

Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines

Renovations rarely go exactly to plan, and that’s normal. In this final episode of our 'What We Wish We Knew Then' series, we talk about what happens when things go wrong, from minor snags to bigger issues, and how to handle them calmly and effectively.

What we cover:

• The most common things that go wrong (including our own disasters!)
• How to create and manage a snag list
• Issues you can expect - from cracks and leaks to finishing details
• How to communicate clearly with builders and trades
• Why retention is critical - and when to use it
• What to do if work isn’t fixed or things become difficult
• When to escalate and what support is available

Key takeaways

• Most renovation issues are normal and fixable
• Clear communication and documentation are your biggest tools
• Retention protects you - agree it early
• A successful renovation is one where problems are resolved, not avoided

A practical, honest guide to navigating the final (and often most stressful) stage of any renovation.

Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines

Having a good eye for design is partly an art - but there is a science to it too, and it's something you can learn. It’s about understanding the components of what makes a room just work. In this episode, we break down the core principles of interior design and how to apply them in your homes.

What we cover:

• The 7 key design principles: proportion, balance, unity, rhythm, emphasis, contrast, and detail.
• How to use repetition and contrast to create a cohesive space.
• Choosing colour based on tone and shade.
• The most common layout mistakes - from rugs and artwork to furniture placement.
• Mood boards, finding your style and not panic shopping.
• The “slow interiors” approach - it's totally fine to take your time.

Key takeaways:

• Good design is about proportion and layout first, styling second.
• Colour decisions should always start with the light in your space.
• The best interiors evolve over time - not in one shopping trip.
  
  

This episode is a practical guide to creating a home that feels juuuust right.

Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines