Home renovation is a thrilling adventure filled with possibilities and new changes. It offers the chance to breathe new life into your living space, making it more functional and aesthetically pleasing. But it can also be full of challenges, potentially turning your dream project into an expensive headache.
For this reason, many homeowners start their renovation journey by seeking local experts, often searching for home remodel designers to find inspiration and guidance. If you’re in Northeast Florida, Welcome Home Styling serves the Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, and St. Johns communities, bringing professional interior design expertise to your home.
Jessica Woodward, the primary interior designer at Welcome Home Styling, has helped countless homeowners renovate their homes. She has also been brought on a project to fix design flaws discovered late in the process. Jessica’s experience helps her clients avoid common mistakes during the home renovation process.
Here are her top 10 renovation interior design mistakes and how you can prevent them with the help of experienced interior design, like Welcome Home Styling. We’ll also dive into some additional points you should consider during this process and the importance of picking the right designer. Let’s get right into it.
#1. Neglecting a Detailed Home Renovation Plan
One significant error during a home renovation is diving into the project without a detailed plan. A well-thought-out plan serves as a roadmap for your home makeover. It covers everything from structural changes to the finer aesthetic details. Without a plan, you risk missing critical elements that could affect the success of your project.
How to Prevent It:
Work with a professional home renovation designer, like Jessica Woodward. She and her team provide comprehensive support from concept to completion, ensuring every detail is meticulously planned. From creating detailed floor plans and material specifications to setting a realistic timeline, a thorough plan can prevent costly mistakes and ensure a smooth renovation process.
#2. Underestimating the Budget
Budgeting is key for any renovation, but many homeowners often forget to plan for all possible costs. Common oversights include hidden costs like permits, unexpected repairs, and professional fees. This often leads to financial strain and compromises on quality.
How to Prevent It:
An interior designer who specializes in renovations can help you create a realistic budget that includes a contingency fund for unexpected costs. Welcome Home Styling provides a detailed proposal after the initial consultation and call to help ballpark the pricing for your renovation.
Jessica provides estimates for merchandise costs. The Welcome Home Styling team excels at sourcing high-quality furnishings and materials within your budget. She’s transparent about the price ranges of different items, guiding you toward quality options that match your style without breaking the bank. If you fall in love with an item that’s outside your price range, Jessica can find similar alternatives that fit your vision and budget.
The construction costs will be provided to you by your General Contractor. With these two cost estimates in mind, you’ll have a good idea of how much your home remodel with cost.
#3. Ignoring Functionality for Aesthetics
It’s easy to get carried away with design trends and aesthetic choices, but functionality is equally as important. A beautifully designed room without practical features can end up being less useful than you anticipated.
How to Prevent It:
Hire a team of professional home remodel designers near you who understand the balance between style and practicality. For a lot of designers, this comes with experience.
Welcome Home Styling’s experienced team excels in integrating functional design with aesthetic appeal. Jessica Woodward ensures your renovation isn’t just stylish but also highly functional. For example, we have remodeled kitchens with easy access to appliances, ample counter space, and pantry space, or designed kids’ rooms with custom storage to keep things organized. Her focus is always on making your space work for your everyday needs.
#4. Overlooking Lighting
Lighting is another critical yet often overlooked aspect of home renovation. Poor lighting can diminish the impact of your design and make your space feel less inviting. There’s scientific evidence linking depression with darkness. Proper lighting enhances functionality, our mood, and even our productivity levels.
How to Prevent It:
Incorporate various types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—into your design. Welcome Home Styling’s full-service interior design includes detailed concept development and selection meetings, ensuring that lighting choices are thoughtfully integrated into your renovation.
Recess lighting is easily overlooked when building a custom home. It’s the most functional lighting, but most homeowners are unaware of the different types of functional lighting that can completely change the interior look of your home by highlighting special features while also providing function.
Architectural lighting offers a minimal look while providing broad-span lighting. See examples below. We always recommend installing dimmers when using recessed lighting.
The first picture shows standard can lighting. Your eye is immediately drawn to them rather than the other beautiful features in the room.
The second picture shows arch lighting. Arch lighting still offers functional lighting, however, the focal points in the room are highlighted: fireplace, art, and even decorative lighting.
#5. Failing to Consider the Home’s Architecture
Have you ever walked through a home and felt like half of the home or a room was completely different from the rest of the house? A renovation should complement, not clash with, your home’s existing architecture. Failing to consider this can result in a space that feels out of place or awkwardly mismatched.
How to Prevent It:
Understand your home’s architectural style and remain consistent throughout the renovation or addition. Jessica Woodward and her team are adept at blending new design elements with existing structures, creating a cohesive and harmonious look to enhance your home’s character.
#6. Striking a Balance Between Timeless Design and Personal Style
Trends come and go, capturing our imaginations and influencing our design choices. It’s easy to get swept up in the latest styles, from the rustic charm of modern farmhouse to the sleek lines of minimalism. However, it’s important to remember that your home is more than just a reflection of current trends; it’s a space where you’ll live, work, and create memories for years to come. By incorporating elements of timeless design and infusing your unique personality, you can create a space that feels both current and enduring, a place that truly feels like home.
How to Prevent It:
The key to creating a space that you’ll love for years to come is to strike a balance between timeless design principles and your personal style. That’s where a professional can help. An experienced interior designer can help you navigate the world of design trends and create a “non-trendy” look that is both unique and stylish. Jessica and the creative Welcome Home Styling think outside the box, suggesting new ways to incorporate your personal style.
Remember, your home is a reflection of you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your design choices. By striking a balance between timeless design and your personal style, you can create a home you’ll love for years.
#7. Forgetting About Storage
Many homeowners going through a renovation get excited about choosing new fixtures and finishes, however, storage solutions don’t have that same sexiness. Adequate storage is essential for maintaining a functional and organized space. With square footage at a premium, these days proper storage isn’t a nice to have but a must-have.
How to Prevent It:
Discuss your storage needs with home renovation designers early in the planning process. Welcome Home Styling’s comprehensive service includes space planning. We can also help design custom storage solutions like built-ins ensuring your renovation addresses all your functional needs. We’ve probably got a few ideas you haven’t considered!
#8 Ignoring Key Measurements and Dimensions
Maybe you’ve heard the saying, “Measure twice, cut once.” Accurate measurements are essential for creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Overlooking the necessary dimensions can lead to overcrowded rooms or furniture that doesn’t fit properly, leaving the space feeling disjointed and uncomfortable.
How to Prevent It:
When planning your remodel, pay close attention to key measurements. Common questions from clients include, “How many chairs will fit around my dining room table?” “What size chandelier do I need?” and “What’s the best rug size for this room?” Welcome Home Styling provides tailored design proposals that incorporate detailed space planning and visuals to ensure your furniture fits harmoniously within your space. Keep in mind that while these measurements serve as guidelines—like a minimum of 36 inches for walkways and 18 inches between a coffee table and sofa—they’re not set-in-stone rules, and interior design can be creatively flexible.
#9. Overlooking The Details
It’s easy to focus on the “big picture” rooms during a renovation – the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. But neglecting the details in the “smaller” spaces like powder rooms and laundry rooms can leave your home feeling incomplete. These often-overlooked areas are fantastic opportunities to showcase your personality and add a touch of unexpected charm. Think bold wallpaper, vibrant paint colors, or unique tile designs. After all, why should the fun stop at the main living areas?
How to Prevent It:
Partner with an interior designer who values every square inch of your home. By collaborating with Welcome Home Styling, you’ll gain access to their expertise in creating a cohesive design that extends to every room, including those “hidden gems.”
Have you ever noticed how quickly model homes sell? It’s not just about the staging; it’s the cohesive design that ties every room together, including those often-forgotten spaces. Professional interior designers excel at creating this sense of harmony throughout your home.
They’ll help you choose finishes, fixtures, and decor that elevate even the most utilitarian spaces, turning them into delightful surprises that reflect your unique style. Remember, a truly beautiful home is one where every detail has been thoughtfully considered, from the grand living room to the humble laundry room.
#10. Not Retaining an Interior Designer Help Early Enough
Many homeowners wait too long to hire an interior designer, reaching out only after key decisions have been made. The earlier you involve the Welcome Home Styling team, the better. Starting from day one, Jessica can help with planning and coordination. We can also help you ballpark your budget and set realistic expectations within that range.
How to Prevent It:
Invest in professional home renovation designers like Jessica Woodward. Early involvement allows Jessica to guide you through the entire process, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring a seamless, high-quality result.
Additional Things to Consider Before Starting Your Home Renovation
Beyond avoiding common mistakes, there are a few more aspects to consider that can make your home renovation experience smoother and more enjoyable:
Timeline and Patience
Renovations can be unpredictable, with delays caused by things like weather, material shortages, returns, or supply issues. Setting realistic expectations and allowing for flexibility can help reduce stress. Jessica’s team provides a clear timeline and keeps clients informed of any changes, making the process smooth and transparent.
Lifestyle Changes During Renovation
Depending on the complexity of the renovation, your daily routine may require some alterations. For example, if your kitchen is being renovated, consider meal prep alternatives such as establishing a temporary cooking space. Many times it’s easier to move out of the home for a while for bigger renovations and even for a kitchen remodel.
Why Choose a Professional Home Renovation Designer for Your Project?
While it may be tempting to take on a remodeling yourself, partnering with an expert like Jessica Woodward has considerable benefits:
Expert Guidance
A professional interior designer can offer skilled guidance which saves time, money, and headaches. Welcome Home Styling’s comprehensive understanding of materials, trends, and local contractors ensures that you make informed decisions at all stages.
Access to Exclusive Resources
Jessica has exclusive access to high-quality trade resources unavailable to the general public. This means you’ll get one-of-a-kind materials, custom furnishings, and high-end finishes to take your remodel above and beyond the norm.
Project Management
Jessica’s full-service design approach encompasses project management from the start to the finish, including contractor coordination and site visits. This guarantees that the project remains on pace, under budget, and in line with the vision.
You get to enjoy all the fun of remodeling your home while Jessica takes on all the stress for you. Her full-service clients don’t have to lift a finger. She provides amazing customer service, focusing on the entire experience—not just the final result.
The Long-Term Benefits of Renovating Your Home
As we mentioned earlier, renovating is not just about immediate changes; it’s about long-term value and enjoyment of your home. Here’s how thoughtful renovations can benefit you down the line:
Increased Property Value
Strategic upgrades can dramatically increase your home’s market value. Kitchens, baths, and well-designed living spaces provide the best return on investment. Jessica’s designs strike a mix between personal preferences and broad appeal, ensuring that the improvements not only look great but also increase the value of your home.
Improved Comfort and Functionality
A well-designed home is more than just its appearance; it should also feel good. Renovations can increase the functionality and comfort of your house, making everyday life more enjoyable. Jessica’s designs, whether they’re establishing an open floor plan, adding extra storage, or enhancing natural light, are all about making your space more functional for your lifestyle.
How to Choose the Right Home Renovation Designer for Your Project
Now you may be asking, “How do I choose the right home renovation designer?” Choosing the right interior designer to work with is critical to the success of your remodel. Here’s what you should look for when choosing a designer:
Portfolio And Style Compatibility
Look at the designer’s portfolio to confirm their style is consistent with your vision. Jessica’s portfolio features a variety of styles, from modern elegance to classic comfort, inspiring a wide spectrum of tastes.
Communication and Rapport
Clear communication is essential for successful design cooperation. Jessica places a high value on client collaboration, keeping you informed and engaged throughout the process. Her warm, professional demeanor also ensures a pleasant experience from beginning to end.
Credentials and Experience
A designer’s experience and credentials say loudly about their skills. Jessica’s significant experience in domestic design and reputation for providing luxury renovations make her a reliable choice in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, and St. Johns, Florida.
Choose Welcome Home Styling for Your Next Home Renovation
Jessica Woodward and the Welcome Home Styling team bring a tailored, comprehensive approach to home renovation design, managing every aspect of your project from beginning to end. Her keen design expertise and meticulous attention to detail allow her to craft sophisticated spaces that resonate with your personal style while surpassing your expectations for both quality and comfort.
Experience a hassle-free journey as Jessica fosters open and collaborative communication, ensuring your vision is transformed into reality. When you choose Welcome Home Styling, you gain not just a designer but a committed team dedicated to bringing your dream home to life.
Bringing Your Renovation Vision to Life with Welcome Home Styling in Jacksonville, FL
Home renovation offers a chance to reimagine your space, but it requires careful planning and execution. By avoiding these common design mistakes and working with experienced interior design professionals like Jessica Woodward at Welcome Home Styling, you can ensure a successful renovation that meets your aesthetic and functional needs.
From detailed planning and budgeting to balancing style with practicality, Jessica’s team provides comprehensive support to help you achieve your dream home. Contact Welcome Home Styling today and let’s talk about your home remodel project. We can’t wait to meet you!
