Claire Garner Interiors Reveal Common Renovation Mistakes Made by Homeowners and How to Avoid Them

Claire Garner, Director, Claire Garner Interiors, www.clairegarnerinteriors.com 


1. Lack of a Cohesive Design Plan: One of the most common mistakes homeowners make during renovations is not having a comprehensive design plan from the outset. Without a clear vision and detailed plan, renovations can quickly become disjointed, resulting in a space that feels haphazard and lacks harmony.

How to Avoid It: Engage with an interior designer early in the planning process. A professional designer will help you create a cohesive plan that considers the flow, functionality, and personal style of your entire home. They will ensure that each element, from colour schemes to furniture selection, aligns with your overall vision, resulting in a stylish space that will stand the test of time.

2. Ignoring the Importance of Lighting: Another frequent mistake is underestimating the importance of lighting. Inadequate or improperly placed lighting can diminish the impact of even the most beautifully designed spaces, making them feel dark, cramped, or uninviting.

How to Avoid It: Incorporate a layered lighting approach into your design plan. This includes ambient lighting for general illumination, task lighting for specific activities, and accent lighting to highlight architectural features or artwork. Consulting with an interior designer can help you determine the right lighting solutions to enhance the functionality and ambiance of your space.

3. Removing Original Features or Overspending to Preserve Them: Homeowners sometimes make the mistake of either removing charming original features that add character or spending excessively to preserve them when it's not practical.

How to Avoid It: Before making decisions about original features, consult with an interior designer to assess their condition and value to the overall design scheme. A designer can provide guidance on which features are worth preserving and integrating into the new design, and which can be replaced or updated more cost-effectively.

4. Missing Opportunities to Bring in More Light: Many homeowners overlook the potential to increase natural light during renovations, resulting in spaces that feel darker and less inviting than they could be.

How to Avoid It: Maximise natural light by considering window placements, adding skylights, or even opting for glass doors where appropriate. An interior designer can help you identify opportunities to enhance natural light, making your space feel brighter and more spacious.

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