1. SAVE PHOTOS TO AN IDEABOARD

Start by creating an Ideaboard on platforms like Pinterest or Houzz—or even the classic way by cutting photos from magazines.

Don’t worry if your selections don’t coordinate yet—just begin saving what draws you in. Focus on visuals that move or inspire you; these will naturally spark excitement and ideas for the next steps.

Pro Tip: Once your board starts filling up, go through and select your top ten photos—the ones that truly resonate, make you feel something, or reveal something you didn’t know you loved. Bring these top choices to your first meeting with your Interior Designer. They’ll help communicate your style and priorities clearly. You can still share the rest of your board, but those top ten will act as your visual compass moving forward.

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2.  HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

You may only renovate or build a few times in your life, but an Interior Designer does it every day. Designers know the pitfalls to avoid, the right questions to ask, and how to bring creative ideas to life.

Every project—big or small—benefits from professional insight at the start. Both the Designer and Contractor play crucial roles, but it’s best to hire your Designer first. That way, all design details will be ready to go before you engage your Contractor, saving time and minimizing stress later.

Working with an experienced Designer means your project (and your sanity!) are in good hands. Designers balance functionality and style, manage details and logistics, coordinate trades, and have access to the right suppliers and wholesalers to bring your vision to life.

Pro Tip: A great Designer creates spaces as unique as their clients. When reviewing portfolios, look for variety—different styles, sizes, and project types. A strong Designer’s work shouldn’t all look the same; it should reflect the individuality of each client.

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3.  TALK ABOUT THE BUDGET

Everyone has a budget—whether saved, financed, or carefully planned. Before diving in, discuss what feels comfortable for you. Your Designer will use that number as a guide to design within your means and help you get the most value possible.

Think of it like buying a car—there’s a range from Kia to Lexus to Bentley, and your Designer’s job is to help you find the best fit for your lifestyle and goals. A great Designer doesn’t care how big or small the budget is—they care about maximizing its impact. If you’re unsure what things cost or how far your budget will go, your Designer can help establish realistic ranges and suggest where to splurge or save to achieve the best outcome. Sometimes, phasing a renovation can make things more financially manageable. Designers are experts in creating cohesive plans that evolve over time while keeping the end result seamless.

Pro Tip 1: Always plan a Contingency Budget—10–20% of your total—depending on project size and scope. This covers both the unexpected and the inevitable upgrades that tend to arise mid-project.

Pro Tip 2: Set aside funds for Furnishings. They’re the final layer that completes your home’s transformation. Your Designer can help decide which existing pieces to keep and what to refresh so the entire space feels cohesive and complete.

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4.  GET YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW

Once your Designer begins the planning process, let them dive in fully. The more thought and organization invested at this stage, the smoother the project will go.

A skilled Designer will explore layout and space planning, produce working drawings and 3D renderings, and guide selections and estimates. In today’s world—where inflation, shipping delays, and fast product turnover are common—the more you can finalize early, the better. It saves time, avoids frustration, and keeps your project moving efficiently.

Pro Tip: Keep up with your Designer’s momentum. Review documents and respond to questions promptly to maintain efficiency and prevent information overload. Staying current helps ensure a smooth, well-paced design process.

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5. INTERVIEW CONTRACTORS/RENOVATORS

Once design concepts and plans start coming together, it’s time to interview Contractors or Renovators. Most will want a clear idea of the project’s scope before providing estimates, and by this stage, your Designer will have drawings and details ready to make that process much easier.

Pro Tip: Ask your Designer for recommendations. Often, they’ve built strong relationships with like-minded Contractors, Trades, and Suppliers. This synergy—where everyone shares similar values and communication styles—can make your renovation experience smoother and more enjoyable.

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6.  TIME YOUR RENOVATION

Work with your Designer and Contractor to plan when to begin your renovation. Consider how construction will impact your living arrangements—will you travel, rent an Airbnb, or live in another area of your home? For major projects like kitchen renovations, plan for how you’ll function day-to-day without a full kitchen for several weeks.

Pro Tips:

•    If you’ll be living on-site, ask your Contractor to set up a Zipwall to contain dust and noise. Create a mini temporary kitchen with essentials like a microwave, mini fridge, and running water.

•    Ask if there are off-season periods when trades are less busy—often outside of summer months in colder regions. Scheduling work then can lead to better trade availability and even cost savings.

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7. TRUST THE PROCESS

Once construction begins, it’s time to let your Contractor and their team work their magic. Depending on your living arrangements, you’ll see various sub-trades—electricians, plumbers, drywallers, painters, and more—onsite throughout the project.

If questions arise, always communicate directly with your Contractor, who will coordinate with the sub-trades to maintain consistency and clarity.

Pro Tip: A little kindness goes a long way. A box of doughnuts or friendly conversation can brighten the team’s day and foster a positive atmosphere. When trades feel appreciated, they’re more collaborative—and often go the extra mile to make your project shine.

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