Step by Step is the blog of Kate Kerin Interiors. In addition to following some of my clients’ projects, I examine some of the latest issues of interest in the world of interior design.

If you’ve ever renovated an apartment, you’ll know that securing Body Corporate approval can feel like the biggest hurdle. It can take weeks, sometimes months, and often involves multiple rounds of questions, clarifications and documentation. So when that approval finally comes through, it’s very tempting to feel like the hard part is over.

In reality, it’s often just the beginning.

In NSW in particular, apartment renovations have become more complex in recent years, especially with the introduction of Class 2 requirements. While Body Corporate approval is a critical milestone, it sits within a broader framework of compliance, coordination and detailed decision making. Understanding what comes next can make the entire process feel far more manageable.

This blog is designed as a general overview only. Every project is different, and it is essential to seek independent professional advice relevant to your specific circumstances.

Internal view of an apartment, with a modern light fixture and a coat rack. The kitchen is in the background.

Understanding the Next Layer: Class 2 Requirements

If your project involves a multi-residential building, which includes most apartment blocks where people live above or below each other, it may fall under what is known as Class 2. You can read more about this in last month’s blog post, titled “Understanding NSW Class 2 Requirements”. Here’s a brief recap:

Introduced as part of broader building reforms in NSW, Class 2 requirements are designed to improve accountability, documentation and quality in apartment construction and renovation. While they were initially focused on new builds, they can also apply to certain types of renovation work, particularly where structural elements, waterproofing or fire safety systems are involved.

This is where many clients are surprised. Body Corporate approval does not override these requirements. In some cases, additional documentation, certification or involvement from registered professionals may still be required before work can begin.

This is why it’s so important to assemble the right team early, and to understand who is responsible for what.

Bringing Together the Right Professionals

Once approval is granted, the focus shifts to building your project team. Depending on the scope of your renovation, this may include:

A builder experienced in apartment or Class 2 projects
A registered design practitioner, such as an architect or building designer
Engineers, particularly if structural changes are involved
A certifier, if a Complying Development Certificate or other approvals are required
Specialist consultants, such as waterproofing or fire safety experts

Each of these professionals plays a specific role in ensuring your project is compliant, safe and well executed. While it may feel like a lot of moving parts, a well-coordinated team will actually make the process smoother and reduce the risk of costly mistakes.

It’s also worth noting that in most cases, clients engage these professionals directly. Clear communication and well-defined responsibilities are essential.

A laptop is open on a desk. Beside it is a small white notebook and a pen.

Where an Interior Designer Fits In

This is often the stage where my role becomes particularly valuable. In fact, many clients engage me before they move through the Class 2 list of requirements. I can help simplify the process and guide clients to engage the right team for their project.

While I am not a registered design practitioner under Class 2 legislation, I work alongside these professionals to ensure the design intent is maintained while meeting all necessary requirements. My focus is on spatial planning, finishes, joinery design and the overall look and feel of the home.

At this point in the process, many of the high-level ideas begin to translate into detailed plans. Kitchen layouts are refined, storage solutions are resolved, and decisions about materials, colours and fixtures start to take shape.

For clients, this can feel both exciting and overwhelming. There are hundreds of decisions to be made, and each one has an impact on budget, timeline and outcome. Having a clear design direction, and someone to guide those decisions, can make a significant difference.

From Concept to Detail

One of the biggest shifts after approval is the move from concept to detail.

Early in a project, it’s easy to talk in broad terms. A “new kitchen”, a “refreshed bathroom”, or “better storage”. Once work begins, those ideas need to be translated into precise specifications.

This includes:

Detailed joinery layouts and internal configurations
Appliance selection and integration
Lighting and electrical plans
Flooring transitions and finishes
Tapware, fixtures and fittings
Paint colours and surface treatments
Furniture selection, layout and procurement
Final styling and overall implementation of the design concept

Each decision needs to be coordinated with the others. A change to one element can have a ripple effect across the project. For example, selecting a different oven may impact cabinetry dimensions, which in turn affects benchtop layouts and power locations.

This is where careful planning upfront pays dividends. It reduces the likelihood of last-minute changes, delays and additional costs.

Managing Timing and Expectations

Another important consideration at this stage is timing.

Many clients assume that once approval is granted, construction can begin almost immediately. In practice, there is often a period of preparation before work starts on site. This can include finalising documentation, obtaining any additional certifications, confirming product selections and coordinating trades.

Lead times also come into play. Custom joinery, stone, appliances and furniture can all have varying delivery timelines. Some items may be available quickly, while others require weeks or months to manufacture.

A well-structured program will take these factors into account, sequencing the work so that everything arrives when it is needed.

Patience at this stage is important. Rushing decisions or skipping steps can lead to compromises in quality or unnecessary stress later on.

The Role of Communication

Clear communication becomes critical once the project is underway.

With multiple professionals involved, it’s important that everyone is aligned. This includes understanding the design intent, the scope of work and any constraints imposed by the building or approvals.

As an interior designer, I often act as a central point of reference for design-related decisions, helping to ensure consistency and clarity. While I don’t manage or engage trades directly, I do work closely with the team to articulate the design and flag any issues that arise. I am often the one to place orders for the selected design elements and undertake the procurement process for my clients.

For clients, this means fewer surprises and a more cohesive outcome. And an added bonus: my procurement policy means that many clients save significant money on their selections due to my preferential trade pricing.

Common Challenges and How to Navigate Them

Even with careful planning, apartment renovations can present unexpected challenges.

These might include:

Building constraints, such as limited access or service locations
Discovery of existing conditions once work begins
Changes required to meet compliance or certification requirements
Delays in materials or trades

The key is not to avoid these challenges entirely, but to approach them with flexibility and a problem-solving mindset.

Having an experienced team, and a clear design framework, makes it much easier to adapt without losing sight of the overall vision.

Kate sits in an armchair, reading a book. Behind her is a dining table and beyond that a kitchen with flowers on the benchtop.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Reaching Body Corporate approval is a significant achievement, and it’s worth celebrating. But it’s also the point where the real work begins.

With the right preparation, a strong team and a clear design direction, the next stages of your renovation can be both rewarding and enjoyable. This is where ideas become reality, and where your home truly starts to take shape.

If you’re about to embark on an apartment renovation, or you’ve just received approval and aren’t quite sure what comes next, a professional consultation can provide clarity and direction. Every project is different, and having tailored advice at this stage can save time, reduce stress and ultimately lead to a better result.

After all, a successful renovation isn’t just about getting approval. It’s about what you do next.

Kate Kerin Interiors works with discerning Sydney clients who value quality, elegance and a seamless design experience, whether you’re downsizing, furnishing a new home or planning a major change. If you’d like to discuss your project, get in touch to book an initial consultation.

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STEP BY STEP: What comes next?