5 Key Considerations Before Starting Your Home Design Project

Is it time to update your home?  Whether you’re considering a simple spruce-up with new furniture and paint or a full-scale remodel, taking some time to answer the following questions will help you make the right decisions as you move forward.

1. What makes your eyes light up?

Before you start planning a remodel, let yourself dream big.  Make a list of everything you’d wish for if money were no object (yes, really!). Start a Houzz or Pinterest board, save several images, and make notes. Your designer wants to know the looks you love, and can help you translate these inspiring images into real-world plans that fit your current home and budget.

2. What works for your lifestyle?

Do you have small children or big dogs?  Is anyone working from home or thinking about retiring?  Will you be doing a lot of entertaining?  How long do you plan to be in your home, and how important is resale value?  Good design is about form AND function, and your designer will use these details to create a space that allows your life to flow.

3. What is your budget?

Be realistic about how much you are willing and able to spend, and factor in the fees for your designer.  Remember that good design is an investment in your home, and an experienced designer can help you determine the best ways to spend your money for the most value.  Working with a professional designer helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that the project is done right.

4. What is your timeline, and how much will your life be impacted?

Remodeling is fun, but any design project will affect your daily routines.  What is the level of disruption you’re willing to deal with?  Will you plan to live at home or move out while the work is completed?  Do you need the project to be finished by a specific date?  Thinking about these questions in advance will help you and your designer create a schedule that minimizes the chaos.

5. Are you planning to work with an architect or builder?

If you already have an architect or builder on board for your project, it’s a great idea to introduce them to your designer early in the planning stages. Bringing your team together early ensures the best design, most realistic budget, and smoothest communication. And if you don’t have an architect or builder in mind, your designer can introduce you to experienced, trusted partners.

The design team at Next Level Austin is here to help you!  We guide and inform from start to finish, every step of the way.  If you’re ready to get started, contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation today!