Start with a light plan, not finishes

Note which rooms receive light in the morning, at midday and in the afternoon; mark windows, courtyards, doors and tall furniture that interrupt it. Decide which uses need priority and compare glazed doors, internal openings, partial partitions or a more open layout from that map, not just an inspiring photograph.

Open up views without touching what you should not

Spain’s Horizontal Property Act allows internal alterations if the building’s safety, general structure, external appearance and other owners’ rights are not affected, and requires prior notice to the owners’ association. Before demolition, ask a technician to identify load-bearing walls, columns, downpipes, shared ducts and façade limits.

Make storage part of the architecture

Inventory clothes, cleaning items, suitcases, books, pantry goods, bicycles and work equipment before drawing wardrobes. Wall-to-wall fronts, storage benches or tall units can free the centre of the flat, but must not block windows, air inlets, equipment or access panels; request dimensions, interiors, materials, hardware and finishes in the quote.

Treat windows, ventilation and energy as one system

The Technical Building Code’s DB HS requires adequate ventilation, with outdoor air supply and stale-air extraction; DB HE sets out energy-saving requirements. If you replace windows or rearrange the kitchen, bathrooms and bedrooms, request window performance, airflow paths, extraction, solar control where appropriate and treatment of possible condensation.

What to prepare for a useful quote

Gather a dimensioned plan or measured sketch, photos of every room and window, approximate orientation, items to retain, a storage inventory, old plans and owners’ association rules. Request separate pricing for demolition, building work, services, joinery, painting, waste and, where applicable, professional fees and permits, with an essential version and optional upgrades.

YOUR NEXT STEP

Shape the renovation you imagine.

Explain what you want to change, the approximate floor area and municipality. We help you find renovation companies so you can compare proposals with a clear scope.

Request a quote for my renovation

Sources consulted

A Constructores.com guide. Informational content; every project requires professional assessment.