A home renovation can enhance your house’s aesthetic appeal and increase its value. It will make living in your home more enjoyable and express your personality. Although very rewarding, renovating your home can also be a daunting, stressful and time-consuming experience! Are you planning a renovation for 2021? Here are 10 of the most common mistakes to avoid when renovating your space.
1. Not Having a Plan
No matter the project, big or small, you will have a much more successful building experience if you properly plan and prepare. You’ll need to have clarity about your reno’s appearance, as well as its legalities. Has a space for an appliance been properly sized? Are you aware of building codes and any other regulations that may apply?
Changes are costly without clear vision.
2. Underestimating a Reno Cost/Not Having a Budget in Place
It’s dangerous to underestimate renovation expenses or completely lack a budget. You may get a nasty surprise when you run out of money before completion.
Assume it will cost more than you estimate, then add 10 to 20 percent to that. Be sure to include other expenses into your budget, such as demolition and clean-up.
3. Choosing Cheaper Options – Poor Quality Work and Finishes
If you buy cheap materials, you’ll be replacing them much sooner than pricier materials. Budget items will also degrade your space’s appearance.
However, expensive doesn’t always mean best. We pride ourselves on providing high quality, handcrafted and uniquely designed cabinet hardware that’s affordable.
GOLD ART DECO FAN KNOB – Image by @clordial
4. Thinking Renovation is Like Reality TV
It’s tantalising to think that you can have your fantasy bathroom in only 12 hours. After all, we all see what they get done on popular renovations shows like The Block Australia and House Rules.
It’s important to remember that real life renovations aren’t reality TV renovations. That fantasy bathroom will take weeks, or even months to complete!
Supplies won’t be conveniently stockpiled in one store, either. They might be ordered from out of state or even internationally, delaying the process.
5. Not Utilising Every Bit of the Property
Your property may have nooks and crannies that are overlooked. With a little creativity, they could transform into useable areas. A small curio shelf could snuggle under a staircase, and a reading nook could occupy a bedroom.
6. Replacing Rather Than Repairing
Why replace old furniture when you can “do up” a dresser, kitchen cupboards or wardrobes with a dash of fresh paint and some brand-new drawer knobs or cabinet door handles? You’ll be amazed at the transformation!
BEFORE…
AFTER…
RECTANGLE WHITE RESIN AND BRASS PULL – Image by @beyondthebobbin_
7. Expecting Everything to Go According to Plan
From the start, assume parts of your renovation will go south. It’s inevitable that there’ll be obstacles, such as bad weather or shipment delays. If you rigidly clutch at “should’s,” you’ll be devastated when they turn to “shouldn’ts.”
8. Following Every Trend
If you ride every trend that you like, your renovation will be an unsightly jumble! Some trends stick, however many go like the wind. It’s important to stay level-headed and put functionality and practicality ahead of design style.
If you are looking to follow a trend, choose classic materials. For example, marble has stood the test of time, and we have a full range of marble knobs and handles to tastefully complement your décor.
9. Ignoring Lighting
A well-lit space is welcoming and functional. Lighting is most effective when it’s layered, rather than from one source. This can be accomplished with floor, table and overhead lights.
When you’re installing lighting, it’s equally important to consider where shadows will fall. If a light is poorly placed, shadows may be unflatteringly cast on your décor.
10. Not Enough Storage
Explore storage possibilities for optimal use of your space. A large kitchen drawer could be partitioned and topped with new drawer handles, or shelving could be added to a laundry room.
Get creative and utilise walls as storage space. Our wall hooks not only look good, but they’re also a great storage solution!
AZTEC DESIGN WALL HOOK – Image by @the_amber_light
A home renovation can be exciting, and it can also be a bit daunting. By following the suggestions above, you’ll be able to confidently ring in the new year with a stylish new upgrade.
Your upgrade will be even better with cupboard handles, kitchen cabinet handles and many more exciting products from our large home hardware collection!
