Who isn't a fan of a feel-good HGTV home renovation show? A team comes in and transforms a family home in as little as a couple of weeks, the styling team is able to sprinkle their magic, and a complete metamorphosis takes place. The grand reveal is always the highlight of the show, bringing the homeowners tears of sheer joy.

While these shows are always entertaining to watch and great for a little inspiration, they tend to leave out a few important details about the home renovation process. Here’s what you don’t see…

Detail #1: Extensive Design Planning Takes Place Before Demo Day

The order of events in these shows is always misleading. Prior to any work being done on "demo-day," designers meet with the homeowners and discuss possible concept and spatial planning, client wishlists, budget, and colors and finishes. Whether the homeowners are renovating or customizing a new build, a designer is an essential team member from the very beginning.

After this initial consult, the design team begins to strategically plan, draft out the project’s space, and complete a walkthrough with contractors to ensure that the design plans are feasible for the home. Next, finishes for flooring, cabinets, and hardware are selected, along with paint colors and/or wallpaper choices. This important phase is where all of the planning is finalized, so that ordering and construction can take place without a hitch.

Detail #2: The Timeline is Realistic and Specific to the Project’s Needs

In our favorite home renovation shows, we see massive crews working tirelessly to meet unrealistic deadlines. When conducting a home reno in real life, the project normally has a small crew dedicated to working on-site during normal business hours. This is one of the key realities to know before starting a home renovation.

Regarding the timeline, a large-scale renovation can take months, even years, to complete. The exact length will be determined by the project’s size and the estimated completion timeframe, which does not include any setbacks that may pop-up. For the construction process to go smoothly, contractors and the supply chain must be working together cohesively. Again, a good reason to have a strategic PLAN first!

Detail #3: The Investment Includes All Labor & Materials

The budgets set for these massive scale projects on TV renovation shows are never realistic. To achieve a fully designed space with high end appliances, the budget is going to be much higher than the average reno cost per room. How can you create a budget for yourself? It’s a little harder than it looks, but calculating the cost of any specialty desired elements is always a good place to start. Next, high-ticket items such as luxe appliances and furniture should be added.

Then, contractor estimates should include most material costs, but it is important to be very clear when communicating wants and expectations. Remember to always portion a section of your budget towards change orders — you never know what surprises will be waiting just around the corner! Keeping all of the anticipated costs on a spreadsheet is the best way to maintain an updated and realistic budget. This is something we, as your designer, can help with.

Choosing a Designer for Your Project

If you're unsure about your home renovations, make sure you reach out to a designer early in the journey. This way, you can be sure that you understand the process, timeline, and investment based on the scope of the project.

If you have a vision and know exactly what you want, but you're feeling overwhelmed, unsure of your ideas, or uncertain of which materials to trust for quality, then virtual interior design might be just what you need. With this option, you would receive some professional design direction without the project management (or fees) that come with full-service interior design. We have several virtual design packages to choose from, and would love to assist you if you are ready to make some major changes in your home.

If you opt to go the full-service route for your renovation or new build, you'll be gaining access to the wealth of professional knowledge, experience, and connections that the interior designer brings to the table. This will also be the best way to ensure that you spend your money wisely and stay on budget. After all, hiring a designer is meant to take the stress and delegation duties off your plate!

If you would like some expert guidance in designing and building your home, we would love to help. Reach out and let's get to know each other.

Warmly,
Celeste