The Marathon Method: A Cincinnati Interior Designer’s Five Tips for Pacing Your Next Renovation
Home Renovations are a Marathon, Not a Sprint
When it comes to renovating your home, the task can seem overwhelming. From selecting the right layout to finding reliable contractors, there are several significant and time-consuming factors to consider. But once your project gets going – and especially once you’re enjoying the final product – a renovation can undoubtedly be incredibly important and worthwhile for any home!
One common misconception in home renovation is that you must tackle a multi-room renovation project all at once. However, it’s essential to remind ourselves that home renovations are more like a marathon than a sprint.
Completing one room at a time can be a strategic and rewarding approach, especially when dealing with small spaces. For homeowners in the Cincinnati area, this quick guide will explain the value of renovating one room at a time and the practical steps that lead to success!
How to Renovate Your Home One Room at a Time:
1. Make a List of Rooms You Want to Update
Begin by making a list of all the rooms in your home that you wish to renovate. Take your time and carefully assess each space, considering the aspects you want to change or improve. It could be the living room, kitchen, entryway, powder room, or any other area that needs attention. Prioritize the rooms based on your needs and budget.
By creating a clear list, you can visually see the scope of work and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Breaking down the renovation process into smaller tasks will also make the experience more manageable and less daunting.
2. Identify the Headache Room
Among the rooms on your list, there is likely one that has been causing the most frustration. It could be a cramped bathroom, an outdated kitchen, or a dysfunctional bedroom layout. This room is your “headache room,” and renovating it first will provide the quickest relief.
There’s no right or wrong order to your renovation project, but addressing the headache room first could give you a morale boost, thus making you feel more accomplished and motivated to tackle other rooms as you see fit.
3. Identify the Room that Would Take the Least Amount of Time to Update
Among the rooms on your list, there is likely one that has been causing the most frustration. It could be a cramped bathroom, an outdated kitchen, or a dysfunctional bedroom layout. This room is your “headache room,” and renovating it first will provide the quickest relief.
While it’s helpful to address the headache room first, you can accomplish a quick win and keep yourself motivated by identifying a room that requires minimal work or updates and can be completed relatively quickly.
A foyer, laundry room, or hallway are all ideal options for this step. Completing a smaller space in a shorter amount of time will give you a sense of accomplishment and spur you on to tackle more challenging rooms.
4. Reassess Your Options
Once you complete the first few rooms, it’s a good time to reassess your overall home renovation plan. Take a step back and evaluate how the finished rooms complement each other in terms of design and functionality. This will allow you to make informed decisions for the remaining rooms and ensure a cohesive overall design for your home.
Consider any changes in your preferences, timeline, or budget that may affect the remaining spaces. Stay flexible with your plan; this will help you adapt to new ideas and improvements!
5. Make and Remake a Plan, and Always Listen to Your Gut
With the experience gained from renovating a few rooms, you are now better equipped to make further plans for the rest of your home. Consider hiring a professional interior design company to help you create a comprehensive and cohesive renovation strategy.
While expert advice is invaluable, don’t forget to listen to your gut. Ultimately, this is your home, and the final decisions should align with your vision and lifestyle. Communicate your ideas and preferences clearly to the professionals, ensuring that the end result is a space that truly reflects your personality and taste.
We Offer Budget-friendly, Small-batch Design Services
Undertaking a home renovation project can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to approach it with a well-thought-out strategy. Instead of attempting an entire multi-room renovation at once, take the marathon approach and tackle one room at a time.
By making a list, focusing on quick wins, allowing yourself to reassess, and staying true to your vision, you can successfully transform your home into your dream space, one room at a time.
The Jackie Barnes Design team is now offering budget-friendly, small-batch design services. Not sure where to start? Stuck on a room layout or design plan? We’re ready to tackle your project alongside you.
