Know Before You Reno
Five Things Every Designer Wants Their Client To Know Before Starting a Renovation
Embarking on a home renovation is an exciting time. You’re reimagining your space, and if you’ve hired a designer like me, you’re working with them to create the home you've always dreamed of. As thrilling as it is to see a vision come to life, it’s important to know what the process might look like before diving in. Understanding the realities of renovation helps minimize stress and ensure you’re fully prepared. Renovations are ultimately rewarding, but they do come with a fair share of challenges.
1. Timelines and Delays
One of the first things I always let my clients know is the timeline. We establish a timeline, plan out every detail, and set clear expectations. But here’s the truth: even our best-laid plans can face delays. Sometimes it’s an unexpected issue with a shipment—like when the perfect tiles are coming from California and face surprise delays. Other times, replacements might be needed because something didn’t quite fit as planned. Renovations can be unpredictable, and while we do our best to prevent delays, they sometimes happen. Rest assured, when you work with a professional, you’ll have someone striving to keep things on track and handling any hiccups for you.
After
Before
2. Dust and Disruption
Let’s talk about dust. No matter how big or small the renovation, there will be dust. It might be in places you expect and in places you don’t. It’s an inevitable part of the process, and while it can be a nuisance, it's a sign that progress is being made. If you’re staying in the house during the renovation, try to embrace it as part of the journey. However, if you have the option, consider taking a staycation elsewhere. Not only does it spare you the stress of living in a construction zone, but it also allows the team to come in earlier and work longer, helping to get the project done more efficiently.
3. Unexpected Costs
I do everything I can to avoid surprises when it comes to costs. That said, renovations, especially in older homes, can sometimes reveal unexpected issues. For instance, I once worked on a 1960s house where we discovered that the breaker panel had been outlawed for safety reasons. It had to be replaced before the electrician could do anything else, which added an extra $2,000 to the project. These are the kinds of things we check for upfront as much as possible, but sometimes you don’t know what you’re dealing with until you open up the walls.
After
Before
4. Preparing Your Space
Before the renovation begins, it’ll be time to do some purging and cleaning. Clearing out the space can make a world of difference, both in terms of making room for the work and mentally preparing for the transformation. We all have things we’ve held onto for years without using. If you’re renovating, embrace this as an opportunity to declutter and create a more open and organized environment.
5. Focus on the End Result
Through all the dust, delays, and unexpected costs, it’s going to be so important to remember why you started this journey. Look forward to the end product—when all the beautiful custom furniture you’ve chosen is installed, when the kitchen is not just functional but perfect for you. The goal is a space that nurtures rest, relaxation, and joy—a place where you’re excited to host friends and family.
Renovations are a process, and being prepared for the journey makes it all the more manageable. From understanding timelines and anticipating dust, to budgeting for potential surprises and preparing your space, knowing what to expect is key. With the right planning and the right team, you can look forward to a beautifully transformed space that feels like home, making every challenge along the way well worth it. And remember, having a designer means you have someone to help guide you through these challenges, ensuring the final result is everything you hoped for.
Thanks for stopping by the blog. To see my daily life, learn about design, and check out the spaces I’m curating, follow me at the links below!
xoxo,
Brittany
Let’s Get Connected!
TikTok: @brittanylyonsinteriors
Pinterest: Brittany Lyons Interiors
LinkedIn: Brittany Lyons Interiors