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Designer’s Advice: Do’s & Don’ts When Renovating

As we introduce you to our team of expert designers, let’s dive into their personal recommendations when renovating, building, and reinventing your space.

 

Starting any kind of design project can be overwhelming. But it’s true when they say “practice makes perfect,” and our team of designers sure have had a lot of practice. Last week we talked about building a strong relationship with your designer. Part of building that relationship revolves around trust. If you’re feeling a little fearful of choosing the right person for the job, here are some Do’s and Don’ts from our experienced team to help you feel more confident in choosing the designer that’s right for YOU.

Photo Credit: Elmwood Design Centre | Elmwood Group

Do: Define Flow, Layout, and Function First

“Before diving into finishes and colours, it’s important to establish the flow and layout of your space.”

It’s not always just about making things look pretty. If you’re deciding to commit to a kitchen renovation, why not do it right the first time?


Our kitchen designer Nathalie emphasizes the importance of understanding how you want your space to function. Take the time to visualize how you’ll move through the area and how you want each element to serve your needs. This foundational step will guide all your design decisions and make for a smoother renovation journey.


Don’t: Rush Into Last-Minute Decisions

“Making hasty decisions can lead to regret.”

It’s important to avoid waiting until the last minute to make big decisions. Nathalie makes sure to advise clients to take their time weighing options and ensure that each decision aligns with the overall vision of the space. All while offering her expertise to help eliminate any indecisiveness. Remember once you commit, it can be costly and time-consuming to make changes later so doing it right the first time is best.

Photo Credit: Elmwood Design Centre | Elmwood Group

Do: Test Paint Colors in Your Space

"Think on paint colours and test samples in your space."

Deciding on the right paint colour for your space is an important part of the design process. Our Interior Designer, Alisson always recommends getting small paint samples and testing them on your walls before making a commitment. Colors can look very different depending on lighting, so take the time to notice how the paint interacts with the space throughout the day. This may seem insignificant but taking the time to test colours can save you from repainting a space multiple times over.


Don’t: Rely Solely on Online Color Swatches

"Avoid choosing a paint colour from an online colour wheel."

Choosing paint colors based solely on online images can lead to disappointment. Colours can vary dramatically from a screen and even certain online visualizers can be inaccurate. Alisson reiterates the importance of looking at colours in real life - starting with swatches and then testing real paint in your space. You shouldn't believe everything you see on the internet - colours included.

Photo Credit: Elmwood Design Centre | Elmwood Group

Do: Prepare for Surprises

“Be ready for surprises - not everything happens like you see on HGTV.”

Renovations often come with unexpected challenges. Just like we learn in sales to “Always Be Closing” it’s important for a novice renovator to “Always Be Prepared.” What you thought was going to be a quick and easy kitchen renovation may turn into the discovery of structural problems, electrical concerns and that lovely word all us homeowners dread: mold.


Our kitchen designer, Claire reminds clients to brace themselves for surprises as they’re often hard to avoid. Especially if the home is older or the structure is changing. Make sure you have financial flexibility to handle these surprises, and always have a contingency fund in place.


And remember if you’re feeling unprepared and don’t think it’s the right time for a reno, it’s perfectly okay to wait. Making sure you feel ready will lead to smoother decisions and a more enjoyable process. There’s no need to rush and suffer through frustration and costly mistakes.


Don't: Skip on Proper Planning

“Avoid renovation fatigue by putting a proper plan in place right from the beginning.”

Having a clear plan is essential. Claire advises against making changes on the fly, as this can lead to additional costs and lengthy timelines. Stick to your original plan as much as possible to avoid decision paralysis and to help keep the project on track.


Part of that plan should involve finding the right professionals to help. Working with a designer is high up on that list, but ensuring you have the right contractor is another big one. Do some research, ask for references and make sure your installers have solid reputations. A trustworthy contractor can make all the difference in the success of your project.

Photo Credit: Elmwood Design Centre | Elmwood Group

Do: Plan Purposefully for Each Cabinet

"Make sure every kitchen accessory has it's home by planning a purpose for each cabinet."

If you've made the big decision to renovate your kitchen, you should always do it right the first time. New cabinetry presents an opportunity for proper storage solutions, better functionality and customization to suit your kitchen needs.


Our kitchen designer Marie-Eve suggests planning the purpose of each cabinet. Make sure to discuss what small appliances and kitchen accessories you have so that you can designate a spot for each item. Taking the time to think this through and be intentional with your design will prevent storage mishaps and ensure a new kitchen that's tailored to you.


Don’t: Follow Every Trend Blindly

"Be cautious of hopping on trends."

While trends can be tempting, it's important to stick with what you like. Marie-Eve recommends choosing designs and colors that "speak" to you personally, rather than what’s popular at the time. Remember, a kitchen reno is a big investment; you want to love your space long after the trend has passed. And hey, if that trend happens to personally resonate with you then go for it! Just don't base you decision solely off of what your favorite influencer is doing.


Renovating your home doesn’t have to be scary. With the right expertise in place, you'll be well equipped to create the space you've always dreamed of. Remember to take your time, trust the pros and plan carefully. These steps will make for a smooth process and show-stopping outcome.


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