Large Scale Renovation Mistakes I Help My Clients Avoid

Let’s be honest. Sometimes the best homes are the ones with great bones and character. However, sometimes, with these homes, the potential can get lost in a sea of outdated pieces and not so functional floorplan layouts. There have been several clients recently who have been looking to renovate their existing home because the location is perfect and they really do love the home itself. The problem is that it doesn’t really work for them or their lifestyle anymore. Renovating a home, especially a forever home, is a big, exciting investment. But as beautiful as the final result can be, the process itself is full of potential pitfalls. Over the years, I’ve guided clients through full-scale remodels and detail-rich refreshes, and I’ve seen firsthand how a few common missteps can turn an inspiring project into an overwhelming one.

So today, I’m sharing the six renovation mistakes I help my clients avoid. Whether you're planning a luxury kitchen renovation, expanding your primary suite, or finally renovating your entire home, these tips will save you time, money, and, most importantly, stress.

What happens when we skip the planning phase?

I get it. Demo day feels like real progress. It’s exciting, tangible, and often the moment homeowners start to feel like things are really moving. But diving in without a solid, strategic plan almost always leads to costly mistakes. Mid-project changes can create a ripple effect of delays, rework, and unexpected expenses not to mention the stress of having to make rushed decisions on the fly.

That’s why at Effortless Designs, we never skip the planning phase. Every project starts with a deep dive into your goals, lifestyle, and vision. We create a crystal-clear design plan and detailed scope of work before construction ever begins. This isn’t just about picking beautiful finishes (though we do that too!), it’s about designing a space that functions beautifully for you and your family. From flow and storage to lighting and material performance, every decision is made intentionally and documented thoroughly so the entire team is aligned. A well-planned project works seamlessly and stands the test of time.

Photographer: Laplanet Arts

Can we get by with not setting a realistic investment range?

Luxury design doesn’t mean blank checks. In fact, the most successful projects start with an honest and strategic investment plan from day one.

I always begin every renovation conversation by asking: How much are you planning on investing in this project? That means not just considering materials and finishes, but also labor, design fees, permits, shipping costs, and those pesky little surprises that inevitably pop up during demo. When clients only plan for the visible elements (countertops, lighting, custom millwork, etc.), they often forget the “behind-the-wall” expenses that come with moving plumbing, upgrading electrical, or correcting something unexpected in an older home.

I always recommend building in at least a 10–20% cushion to your overall investment. This isn't just to “be safe” but rather it’s a powerful tool that gives our clients room to pivot if an issue arises or if we uncover an opportunity to elevate the design further along the way. And if we don’t end up needing it? Even better! That investment can go toward a splurge-worthy detail that truly makes your space even more special.

One of my favorite quotes I have heard is, “Luxury isn’t about excess. It’s about intention.” That is certainly true when it comes to your investment plan. Thoughtful planning in this area allows us to guide our clients on where to invest in quality to make sure every dollar is working to support their lifestyle, their vision, and their home’s long-term value.

Why does underestimating project timelines ruin a project?

Modern home makeover shows make it look like a home can be transformed in a few weekends. The reality? True quality takes time. From custom cabinetry to handmade tiles and bespoke lighting, the level of craftsmanship that defines luxury design simply doesn’t happen overnight. Add in the scheduling of specialized trades, lead times for premium materials, and the inevitable curveballs that can surface in any renovation; and suddenly, that “quick refresh” looks a lot more complex.

That’s why I work closely with my clients from the very beginning to create a realistic, well-paced project timeline. We take into account everything we can and build in intentional breathing room so the process doesn’t feel rushed. I also collaborate directly with the contractor throughout, since their expertise is essential in shaping the construction schedule and identifying any challenges early on. I’m always transparent about what we can control and what we may need to navigate as we go. This thoughtful, team-oriented approach helps reduce stress, prevent costly rush fees, and gives every trade the time they need to deliver their best work.

Does the lighting plan really impact my home that much?

Lighting is one of the most overlooked elements in any space. Yet, it has the power to completely transform the feel of a space. A beautifully designed room can fall flat if it’s lit poorly. Harsh overhead fixtures, outdated can lights, or insufficient lighting altogether can make even the most thoughtfully curated details disappear. Worse still, skipping a lighting plan entirely often leads to regrets that are difficult (and expensive) to correct once construction is complete.

That’s why I treat lighting as a foundational part of the design process, not an afterthought. Our studio creates a layered plan that combines architectural and decorative lighting to support how you live in the rooms. Whether it’s sconces that add warmth to a hallway, under-cabinet lighting for a functional kitchen glow, or statement pendants that bring sculptural elegance to a room, each layer is intentionally placed. The result is a home that feels just as inviting and elevated in the evening as it does in natural daylight.

Is it worth it to change your mind mid-project?

It’s completely natural to second-guess things especially in a high-investment renovation where every detail matters. But once construction begins, big design changes can trigger a domino effect of delays, added costs, and even rework that could have been avoided with a more deliberate approach from the start.

That’s why my design process is deeply immersive and highly detailed in the early phases. Before the first hammer swings, we’ve already refined your vision, selected your finishes, finalized layouts, and created a comprehensive roadmap that aligns with both your style and your lifestyle. This upfront clarity allows you to move through the renovation with confidence, knowing that every decision was made with care and intention. Of course, there’s always some flexibility baked in but the more aligned we are at the start, the smoother the entire reonvation process becomes.

Photographer: Laplanet Arts

What happens when I don’t hire the right team?

This one may be the biggest but it is the truth. Here it goes: the team you choose will shape every aspect of your renovation, from the quality of the finishes to your daily experience. And while it can be tempting to go with the lowest bid, especially when numbers start to add up, that choice often ends up being the most expensive in the long run. When you’re investing in a home designed to last cutting corners on the team is rarely worth it.

That’s why I only work with vetted, highly skilled professionals who share my standards for communication, craftsmanship, and client care. Your contractor should feel like a trusted partner, not just a hired hand. The best contractors bring valuable insight to the planning process, flag potential issues before they escalate, and collaborate with designers and clients alike to keep the project on track. When you have the right team, the experience is smoother, the outcomes are stronger, and the entire renovation feels more aligned.

A well-executed renovation should feel exciting, not exhausting. With the right planning, realistic budgeting, thoughtful design, and a dream team of professionals, the process becomes smoother and the result is something you’ll truly love for years to come.