How to Plan a Home Renovation

Your step-by-step guide to turning inspiration into a beautifully executed space

Renovating your home can be one of the most exciting and transformative projects you’ll ever take on—but without a clear plan, it can also become overwhelming fast. Whether you’re refreshing a kitchen, reworking a bathroom, or doing a top-to-bottom overhaul, a thoughtful approach ensures a smoother process, better results, and fewer surprises.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan a renovation that’s smart, stylish, and stress-free.

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1. Clarify Your Vision

Start by asking: What isn’t working? What do I want to feel when I walk into this space?

Collect inspiration from magazines, Instagram, Pinterest, or favorite hotels and restaurants. Notice the colors, textures, and layouts you’re drawn to. Even one image can spark a fully realized design direction.

Pro tip: Create a mood board to help organize your ideas and communicate your vision to your design team.

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2. Set a Realistic Budget

It’s easy to underestimate the cost of a renovation—so build in a cushion of at least 10–20% for surprises.

Think beyond construction: include design fees, permits, furnishings, fixtures, and temporary living costs (if needed). A great team will help you prioritize and make the most of your investment.

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3. Choose the Right Team

A well-curated renovation team is essential. For most projects, that means:

• Architect and/or Interior Designer: for space planning, finishes, and cohesive design

• Contractor: for execution and coordination

• Specialists: like structural engineers or millwork fabricators when needed

At Re: Design Architects, we guide clients through every step—from vision and permitting to construction and furniture—so nothing gets lost in translation.

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4. Get Clear on Scope

Are you just redoing the kitchen cabinets, or are you moving walls? Are you replacing finishes or reimagining the entire layout?

Define the scope early to avoid costly changes later. This will also help with accurate pricing and timelines.

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5. Understand the Timeline

Renovations take time—and permitting, procurement, and construction can all bring delays.

Talk with your team about:

• When to order long-lead items (like windows, tile, or custom cabinetry)

• How long demolition and construction will take

• What happens if unexpected issues arise (like old plumbing or structural quirks)

Plan with flexibility and patience—you’re building something to last.

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6. Secure Permits (if needed)

In NYC and many other areas, even “small” renovations often require permits. Skipping this step can cause delays, fines, or issues when selling your home later.

A licensed architect or contractor can help navigate Department of Buildings (DOB) regulations so your project stays compliant and on track.

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7. Prepare for Daily Life During Construction

Renovation can be disruptive. Consider:

• Setting up a temporary kitchen or bath if yours will be out of commission

• Protecting areas of your home that won’t be touched

• Planning vacations or overnights elsewhere during messy stages (especially with kids or pets)

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8. Stay Involved—but Trust Your Team

Weekly check-ins with your architect or contractor keep you informed without needing to micromanage. Ask questions, review updates, and flag any concerns early.

When you’ve hired the right team, you’ll feel confident stepping back while the magic happens.

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9. Celebrate the Details

Design is in the details. Light switch placement, grout color, door hardware—they all matter. An experienced designer will help you make the thousands of small decisions that add up to a space that feels just right.

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10. Enjoy the Reveal

There’s nothing like walking into a space that reflects your taste, lifestyle, and story. Take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come—then invite people over and celebrate.

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Ready to Begin?

At Re: Design Architects, we specialize in renovations that feel fresh, functional, and uniquely yours—from Brooklyn brownstones to North Fork weekend homes. If you’re ready to reimagine your space, we’d love to help bring your vision to life.

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