Ready, Set, Renovate!
Happy New Year!!
With 2020 now in our rearview mirror, we can all breathe a sigh of relief and look forward to a brand new year ahead. One that I know will be full of unexpected opportunities and endless possibilities. Let’s ease into 2021 with an open mind and an open heart.
Alright, so, is this the year?! Is this finally going to be the year that you renovate your outdated kitchen or whatever outdatedness (if that’s even a word) you’ve got going on in your home? If so, then this is the blog post for you! We’re giving you our top 5 tips for renovating your home. Before getting yourself into a renovation, it’s important that you come prepared. Check out my top 5 tips below.
Our Top 5 Tips For Renovating Your Home
Source // Andrea West Design
1. Set a Realistic Budget
There’s no denying it, renovations are costly. When setting your budget keep in mind things like, cost of materials, labour, permits and decorative items such as window coverings, furniture, art and accessories. Once you have determined a budget, add at least 20% extra for unexpected costs. If you find that your costs outweigh your budget, try looking at your priority list. Whatever is lowest on the list, can it be eliminated and perhaps tackled down the road? When renovating a space like a kitchen, it’s important that it’s done right. I’d rather see one room done really well, then a bunch of rooms done just so, so. Do it right and do it well! I can’t stress this enough. If you don’t have the budget just yet, wait and save a bit more money and do the renovation the next year. Trust us, you’ll be happy you waited and did it right!
2. Plan Ahead
Proper planning can save you unnecessary headaches. Once you know you’re ready to renovate, start researching and designing your space. Pick out your finishes and order them well in advance to your start date. This will eliminate unexpected delays to your project. Get all your ducks in a row! Planning also helps to keep you on budget and costs in check too! Plan, plan, plan!
3. Make a Timeline For Your Renovation
Okay, we’ve all seen the HGTV shows. Reality check, a kitchen can not be renovated in two weeks. It’s just not possible. Renovations often take much longer than you expect them too. Hiccups happen, products get delayed, sh*t happens! So it’s best to prepare yourself for the long haul. Once you’ve determined the scope of work, speak with your Contractor about what an appropriate timeline is for your project so that you are properly prepared.
4. Hire The Right Team
This is so important. Renovations are stressful and you don’t need a poor team on top of that to add to the stress. Find a Contractor that you get along with. One that sees and respects your vision. One that is honest, reliable and dependable. Ask around and get references! Make sure you interview your Contractor and get multiple quotes. Is your Contractor going to hire on sub trades for you? Or will you be searching for these trades yourself? Ask your Contractor these questions so that you are prepared. Hire the right team to get the project done on time and with the utmost quality.
5. Keep Your Eye on The Prize
We’ve said it already, but renovations are stressful and overwhelming. It can feel like your life is turned upside down and you’ll likely question why you’re even putting yourself through it. BUT we’re here to tell you, to keep your eye on the prize! Once you’re cooking up a storm in your brand new dream kitchen, you will quickly forget the struggle you went through to get there. It’s all worth it in the end. We always say that living in a space that makes you feel content, happy and at peace, is truly a form of self care. Keep your eye on the prize!
Source // Amber Lewis
I hope these tips help you prepare for your upcoming renovation! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to an Interior Designer. You’ll be amazed by the magic they can create. ;)
Xo Charlee