Planning for your Next Home Renovation
Proper planning is always crucial for anything worth doing in life. Its definitely necessary when taking the step to renovate your home. Check out these tips before starting your next home renovation project.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Before jumping into your renovation, take the time to define what you want to achieve. How do you want your space to function? What kind of atmosphere do you want to create? This is your opportunity to design a space that suits your lifestyle, so it’s important to start with a clear vision of what will work for you and your family.
Step 2: Research & Gather Inspiration
Start exploring design ideas that speak to you. Look at Instagram, Pinterest, Houzz, and other sources to gather inspiration. Create a mood board or a scrapbook with colors, concepts, and materials that stand out to you. This will help you define your aesthetic preferences. And if you’re having trouble visualizing how everything will come together, that’s exactly why working with an interior designer can help.
Step 3: Understand Your Project’s Scope
Is this a full-home renovation, or just a few rooms? Are you looking for help with furniture selection and styling, or just the architectural elements? Defining the scope of your project will guide everything that comes next, from budgeting to the professionals you need to hire.
Step 4: Set a Realistic Budget
Establish a realistic budget that includes not just materials and labor, but also a contingency fund for any unexpected costs that come up along the way. We typically recommend a 20% contingency budget for renovation projects. You will need to examine this budget and set expectations for what’s achievable.
Step 5: Assess Your Time and Energy
A renovation requires a significant amount of time and energy—phone calls, managing schedules, overseeing contractors. Are you ready to take on those responsibilities? If not, it might be time to bring in a professional.
Free Online Resources to Help Plan your Renovation
1. Roomstyler 3D Home Planner
If you're struggling to visualize how your new space will come together, this tool is a game-changer. Roomstyler 3D Home Planner allows you to create your own room layouts in 3D, so you can see how furniture and decor fit in your space before making any purchases. You can experiment with color schemes, flooring options, and furniture arrangements—all in a highly interactive way. It’s an amazing tool for getting the basics down on paper, and it can even help you figure out where the power points and lighting should go (something we’ll definitely discuss in your design consultation!).
2. SmartDraw
For those who want to get a bit more technical with their renovation planning, SmartDraw is a great option. It’s a robust online tool that lets you create floor plans, elevations, and even plumbing or electrical schematics. While it’s a bit more detailed, it’s a fantastic resource for anyone who wants to have clear, accurate plans when they start meeting with contractors or designers. Plus, its free version offers a lot of flexibility to start mapping out your renovation.
Try SmartDraw
3.The Home Depot Project Calculators
This one is especially useful when you're planning to take on smaller renovation tasks or DIY projects. The Home Depot Project Calculators include estimators for things like paint, flooring, and cabinetry—helping you figure out how much you’ll need, and giving you an idea of costs before you get started. Even if you’re planning on hiring pros for the bulk of the work, understanding your material needs and getting cost estimates is an essential step in budgeting.
Check out Home Depot Calculators
A Note From Me: Why Hire a Professional Anyway?
While these tips and tools are a fantastic place to start your planning, working with a professional like myself can help take things to the next level and remove all of the stress of learning a new space planning or budgeting tool. These free tools give you the basics, but as you can see from the list, there are so many nuances involved in a renovation project—especially when it comes to nailing a cohesive aesthetic, managing timelines, budgets, and working with contractors. That's where I come in. I’ll help make sure that your vision is executed with the attention to detail it deserves, and I’ll handle the complex aspects of the design and renovation process, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
So, while I want you to feel empowered to plan on your own, I’d also love to help bring your dream space to life. The design process is more than just picking out colors and furniture; it’s about creating a space that enhances your lifestyle—and that’s where my expertise shines.
My top 10 Reasons to Hire a Designer before your Next Home Renovation:
You’ll Save Money
It might seem counterintuitive to hire a designer when you’re trying to stay on budget, but I can actually help you avoid costly mistakes. By making smart design choices and preventing impulse buys, I’ll ensure you get the most value for your money.You’ll Save Time
The time you’ll save by not having to make every decision yourself is invaluable. I handle everything—from design to vendor coordination—so you can focus on what you do best.It’s Less Stressful
Renovations are stressful, especially if you’re trying to juggle everything on your own. As your designer, I’ll take care of the details, leaving you with peace of mind and a project that stays on track.Professional Expertise
I bring years of training and experience to every project. I can help you stretch your budget while still achieving the high-quality look you want. With my expertise, your space will be functional, stylish, and personalized just for you.Proper Budgeting and Planning
I’m here to help you stick to your budget and avoid unnecessary costs. With a clear plan in place, I’ll ensure the project stays on track financially and on time.Qualified Liaison
I act as a liaison between you and contractors, helping to keep everyone on the same page. I speak their language, which means there’s less chance for miscommunication and mistakes.Better Resources and Contacts
Thanks to my industry connections, I have access to high-quality vendors, tradespeople, and materials that might be difficult for you to find on your own. This ensures a smoother process and a higher standard of work.Your Home Will Have the ‘Wow’ Factor
Your home will not only function better, but it will also have that polished, cohesive look that makes it stand out. Together, we’ll create a space that makes you smile every time you walk in the door.A Third-Party Decision Maker
I help mediate between all the decision-makers in your household, ensuring that everyone’s needs are met and that we all stay on the same page. This makes the process less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.Someone Else Will Do the Tedious Tasks
Tracking down materials, coordinating deliveries, and ensuring everything is installed on time can be tedious. I’ll handle all of this for you, so you don’t have to worry about the small stuff.
Bonus Tip: 3-D Planning for a Clearer Vision
If you struggle to visualize your new space, 3-D planning can make all the difference. I offer 3-D renderings that let you see your design before the first hammer swings. Not only does this make sure everything looks great, but it also helps get a more accurate bid from contractors, preventing costly surprises down the road.
Ready to Bring Your Renovation to Life?
Planning a renovation is no small task, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I’m here to guide you through every step—from initial concept to the final touches—ensuring your project is a success. If you’re ready to turn your vision into a reality, let’s chat. Together, we’ll create a space you’ll love for years to come.
Contact me today to start planning!
