Home Blunder Series: Common Interior Design Mistakes (Part 4)
June 10, 2024 - Michelle Murphy
We’re back with more common interior design mistakes! And this time, you’re getting a special instalment.
Drumroll please
Renovation woes.
That’s right. We’re talking home reno missteps, how to avoid them, and what to do instead.
The Home Blunder Series is alive and well! Let’s get into part four.
Looking for mistakes #1 - #9? Then check out part one, part two, and part three!
Common Interior Design Mistakes in Renovations
Home renovations are usually a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Avoiding these common interior design mistakes can help make the bumps in the road a little less bumpy… and costly.
Mistake #10: Thinking in the Now
It’s easy to get excited about how things will look right away. But only thinking about the “now” can cause problems later. A common mistake homeowners make is not considering long-term goals and potential resale value.
Renovations are BIG investments, so it’s important to think about the future. What you like today might not work for you in a few years, especially if your family changes or your lifestyle evolves. Plus, future buyers might not like overly personalized or trendy updates, which could hurt your home’s resale value.
To avoid these issues, consider:
- Going for timeless looks that won’t go out of style quickly. Think neutral bases, flexible rooms, etc.
- Designing multi-functional spaces that can be used in different ways over time. Focusing too much on looks can lead to spaces that aren’t practical.
- Keeping resale in mind and how changes might affect your home’s value, even if you plan to stay for a while.
Balancing current desires with long-term goals means you can make sure your renovation adds lasting value to your home.
Wondering if you should renovate or buy a new house in Calgary? Get MMID’s insights.
Mistake #11: Buying “Quality” Items from Big Box Stores
It’s tempting to buy all your renovation materials from big box stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. These stores are great options if you’re looking for lower-priced selections, but you probably shouldn’t make them your go-to for quality pieces.
Big box stores can offer low prices because they buy in bulk and get volume discounts. However, the materials they sell are often of lesser quality compared to those from specialty suppliers. This means you might save money upfront but end up paying more in the long run for repairs or replacements.
To make sure you’re getting true quality, try:
- Looking for specialty suppliers or local stores known for high-quality products.
- Checking online reviews and asking for recommendations from friends or professionals.
- Not just looking at the price, but comparing the materials and construction of the items you’re considering.
If you want to avoid frequent repairs and enjoy a more durable and lasting renovation, invest in higher-quality materials that support longevity.
Get more tips for planning your home renovations in Calgary.
Mistake #12: Improper Budgeting
Proper budgeting is crucial for a successful renovation. Without a well-thought-out interior design budget, you can quickly run into financial trouble, leading to unfinished projects or poor-quality results.
To avoid cash pitfalls:
- Get detailed estimates for all aspects of your renovation, including materials, labour, and any permits or fees. Try to get quotes from several contractors and suppliers to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
- Set aside at least 10-20% of your budget for unexpected costs. This buffer can help you handle surprises without compromising the project.
- Focus your budget on the most important aspects of your renovation. It’s better to spend more on key elements like structural work and quality materials than on minor details.
- Keep a close eye on your spending throughout the project to make sure you stay on track. Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to help you monitor costs.
- Consider phasing your renovation over time rather than doing everything at once if your budget is tight.
Creating and sticking to a realistic budget will help you avoid financial stress and ensure your renovation is completed to a high standard.
Mistake #13: Ignoring Professional Advice
Think you can save money by doing things yourself and ignoring professional advice? Think again.
Professionals bring expertise and experience that can save you time, money, and frustration. They know the ins and outs of building codes, design principles, and the latest materials. Ignoring their advice can result in code violations and design flaws that are expensive and time-consuming to fix.
Follow these 4 tips to find the right general contractor.
To make the most of professional advice:
- Look for professionals with good reviews, testimonials, and references.
- Make sure you communicate your goals and budget clearly from the start.
- Be open to feedback. Listen to their suggestions and be willing to adjust your plans based on their expertise.
If you value professional advice, you can ensure a smoother renovation process and avoid expensive mistakes.
Speaking of professionals with expertise and experience, explore MMID’s interior design and eDesign services!
Conclusion
Renovating your home should be exciting above everything else. Avoiding these common interior design mistakes is the first step in easing the process and laying the foundation for a successful project.
By thinking long-term, sourcing high-quality materials, sticking to a realistic budget, and listening to professional advice, you can ensure your renovation goes smoothly and adds value to your home.
Happy renovating!