Are there any renovation lessons you wish you knew back then?
Or is there anything you want to know before you begin your renovation journey?
Today I caught up with Jen Bishop from Interiors Addict to discuss four renovation lessons she has learned from the past!
Keep reading below as we share a few lessons on renovation or simply listen to the full podcast here instead…
RENOVATION LESSON #1 – PATIENCE
A lot of the time, everything takes longer than expected and that’s okay. That doesn’t mean your builder is ripping you off, wasting your time or being slow.
Bathrooms can take weeks, if not months. This is because you have other trades involved and so many things you have to line up.
In reality, your trades will have a few jobs on, so no plumber is only working for you. Sometimes, your project will be rained out and there will be a massive work reshuffle.
Being realistic and patient makes for a less stressful experience!
RENOVATION LESSON #2 – FINDING TRADES WHO COMMUNICATE WELL
Having a good trader who communicates well will reduce a lot of stress and anxiety. This can be someone who simply returns your calls or texts, and listens to your requests. And they won’t make you feel silly for asking such requests!
It’s so important that your trade makes you feel comfortable enough to ask them questions. Every time you receive their answer, it will make you feel more settled!
A good trade will reassure you that with whatever happens, they will help you find a solution.
RENOVATION LESSON #3 – PICKING PAINT COLOURS WITH A COLOUR CONSULTANT
Picking the right paint colour is tricky! Sometimes you might pick a colour from the fan deck, only for it to turn out a different shade after it’s painted.
That’s why getting a consultation with a colour consultant or interior designer is so worth it.
At the end of the day, you’re spending a lot of money on things like a kitchen, bathroom, or having the exterior of your house painted. It’s expensive and it’s something you do not want to get wrong.
Having an expert to approve or suggest ways to tweak your plans will give you peace of mind. So in the grand scheme of things, spending that few hundred dollars is worth your money.
RENOVATION LESSON #4 – IT’S OKAY TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
It’s okay to change your mind about your plan, even at the last minute.
In Jen’s case, she was going to paint her walls navy for the ensuite. But at the last minute, she thought it was going to be too dark. So she opted for grey-blue instead!
Even if you feel obliged to stick to a plan, there is absolutely no reason you have to.
When clients are selecting their builders or trades, you need to feel no judgment, especially with building contracts for renovation.
Make sure you work with a team that contractually offers you flexibility. Your choice of doors might change and visions can be different in the future.
Having the feeling of comfort and support that you can bring things up with the team is so important.
In the end, you will be so happy with your space!
Looking for an easier way to plan your renovation from start to finish?
Make your dream home a reality, no stress, no guesswork with our FREE Beautiful Renovations masterclass CLICK HERE TO JOIN
Looking for an easier way to plan your renovation from start to finish?
Make your dream home a reality, no stress, no guesswork with our FREE Beautiful Renovations masterclass CLICK HERE TO JOIN
Naomi Findlay is an experienced interior designer, project manager and stylist who also loves sharing her passions and experience by teaching others.
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