Celeste, what is the difference between renovating and redecorating and how do I decide which choice is best for my home? This is an excellent question. While these two terms might be used interchangeably by many, they have many significant differences that are pivotal to understanding when making a decision.

Redecorating refers to changing decorative elements within your home, such as artwork, curtains, throw pillows, wallpaper, or painting. Renovating is attributed to removing, replacing, or creating new home features, such as knocking down a wall to open up a space, gutting your kitchen and installing new appliances and finishes, or swapping out your flooring.

In this post, I'm going to provide you with further insight into both of these options to help you make the best decision for each unique situation.

When Renovating is the Right Choice 

The way you can tell which is necessary, renovation or remodel, is simple. If you desire major updates that allude to walls/plumbing/electrical being moved, roofing being restored, windows moving or being replaced, or you want to completely hit the reset button, then a remodel will be the option for you.

High Effort, High Reward

Renovation may be the most challenging of the two options because it invokes high effort and high cost, but it also yields high impact. Lots of planning, attention to detail, management, effort, and fiscal responsibility are required, but a remodel allows for a fully customizable home that can help you fall in love with it all over again. Just make sure that you're working with a contractor that you trust or a reputable interior designer.

To learn more, read 3 Reasons to Hire an Interior Designer.

When Redecorating Might Be All You Need

If you're looking for a simple, less- expensive, and fast way to bring new life into your space, then redecorating is the decision for you.

Those who choose to redecorate typically have a great working layout, no major plumbing/electrical needs, and have a good source of natural light already present. This means that only small updates and finishes are needed to rejuvenate each targeted room.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Redecorating is generally a smaller-scope project, but that's not to say that the new touches that you add can't expand throughout your home. I like to say, "One small decor item can change a space, a new piece of furniture can change a room, and the introductive flow of new colors/patterns can change a home."

It is truly amazing how transformative new features such as wall treatments (like millwork or wallpaper), updated decor, fresh paint, adding built-ins, etc. can be.

Which is right for you?

To recap, renovations require major planning and time, are costly, and require outsourced help, but yield custom and distinctive results, while redecorating is usually a quick, cost-effective, straightforward, and manageable way to make your home better reflect your personal style. 

If you're still on the fence, I urge you to schedule a virtual consult, and I'm happy to help guide you through your decision making process. I'm always here to help you make smart decisions when it comes to exploring and selecting the right avenue for your home.

Warmly,
Celeste