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Interior Designer Mt. Juliet TN, Interior Designer Lebanon TN, Interior Designer Hermitage TN, Interior Designer Old Hickory TN, Interior Designer Nashville TN, Interior Designer Donelson, Interior Designer Hendersonville TN, Interior Designer Gallatin TN, Interior Designer Brentwood TN, Interior Designer Franklin TN, Interior Designer Bellevue TN, Interior Designer Green Hills TN, Interior Designer Belle Meade TN, Interior Designer Davidson County TN, Interior Designer Williamson County TN, Interior Designer Wilson County TN, Interior Designer Sumner County TN
Gwen Canfield, Interior Designer/Decorator | Serving the Greater Nashville, TN Area including Mt. Juliet, Lebanon, Hendersonville, Gallatin - Davidson County, Sumner County & Wilson County
Frequently Asked Questions
Services
I specialize in full-service space transformations, from concept to completion.
Full service is more than a design plan. It’s a professionally managed process from concept through installation, ensuring every detail is aligned and executed with intention, resulting in a cohesive, elevated space tailored to you.
Refurnishing:
I provide comprehensive, full-service refurnishing for homeowners seeking a cohesive, elevated result. This includes not only the design plan, but complete professional implementation, from ordering and tracking to receiving, inspection, delivery coordination, installation and styling.
• Living Rooms
• Bedrooms
• Dining Rooms
• Home Offices
• Commercial Conference Rooms & Offices
• Public-facing areas within commercial environments
• Luxury Short Term Rentals
Remodels:
I partner on upscale remodels, including kitchens and baths, guiding the process from strategic space planning and concept development through finish and fixture selections. You receive a fully developed plan package ready for contractor execution. In addition, I provide design support throughout the construction process to ensure a cohesive final result.
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Laundry/Mud Rooms
• Public-facing areas within commercial environments
• Luxury Short Term Rentals
Each space is designed holistically as a complete vision. Rather than adding isolated pieces, I curate the full environment while thoughtfully incorporating any meaningful items you’d like to keep.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you. Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
See what clients say about 615interiors » (https://www.615interiors.com/client-testimonials)
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Full-Service Protects Your Investment
Full-service interior design protects your investment by removing guesswork, preventing costly mistakes, and ensuring every decision works together from the start. It’s more than a design plan, it’s a professionally managed process that guides your project from concept through completion, with cohesive decisions and intentional execution at every stage. From space planning and detailed design development to sourcing, purchasing, and final installation, every detail is handled with precision. This level of oversight protects your time, your budget, and the outcome, so your home comes together exactly as envisioned without the stress of managing it all yourself. If this is the level of service you’re looking for, you’re in the right place.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you. Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
See what clients say about 615interiors » (https://www.615interiors.com/client-testimonials)
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
STEP 1. Phone Consult: Complimentary (30-45 min.)
Your design journey begins with a complimentary Zoom consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen. This is a chance for us to connect, talk through your vision, and review what you’re hoping to achieve with your space. I’ll explain how my design process works, and if it feels like the right fit, we’ll schedule your in-home Design Session as the next step.
STEP 2. In-Home Consult/Design Session: $500*
Get your questions answered and clear direction with this in-home mini design session - it's the first step for homeowners exploring professional design support and clarity on how to move forward. We’ll walk your space and discuss your goals, review your inspiration photos together, and talk through the level of guidance that best fits your project. Then we'll determine next steps, timeline, and an appropriate investment range.
Deliverables:
• Private, in-home design consultation tailored to your space
• Expert evaluation of your home, goals, and project potential
• Clear guidance on scope, priorities, and investment planning
• A personalized Design Project Summary (PDF) outlining recommended next steps
• A Style Mood Board curated just for you
*If you choose to move forward with our services, the consult fee will be applied toward your design investment.
STEP 3: Interior Design Planning: Price varies
Whether you're planning a full remodel or a simple refresh, this phase is where your vision comes to life with clarity and intention. I guide you through a step-by-step process to plan every detail of your space, ensuring it aligns with your goals, style, and investment level. Your personalized design plan includes to-scale floor plans and immersive 3D renderings, allowing you to see your space fully reimagined before any purchasing begins. Together, we’ll make thoughtful layout and design decisions so you can move forward with confidence. No guesswork, no costly mistakes, just a clear plan for a beautiful result.
Design Fee
Design is offered as a flat fee, tailored to your project based on the size, scope, and complexity of the space(s). After your in-home consultation, you’ll receive a detailed design proposal outlining your investment so you can make an informed decision before moving forward.
STEP 4: Implementation: Price varies
Once your design is finalized, we move into implementation. This is where everything comes together. I manage the purchasing of your furnishings, lighting, and decor, along with all vendor coordination, order tracking, receiving, delivery, installation, and final styling. Every detail is handled to ensure a smooth, well-executed result.
After design approval, you’ll receive a tailored implementation agreement outlining the overall project investment. This includes your furnishings along with the coordination and logistics required to bring your design to life seamlessly.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you. Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
When I manage procurement, you gain access to trusted trade vendors and pricing not available to the public through my network of vetted manufacturers, resulting in a more curated, higher-quality outcome. While this can offer better value than retail, the real benefit is a fully guided, hands-on experience.
Furnishings are priced as a total investment that includes both the products and the professional management required to bring everything together seamlessly, from sourcing and purchasing to logistics, delivery, installation, and issue resolution. As part of the design process, your Selection Board includes a real-time budget indicator, allowing you to see how your furnishing selections are contributing to the overall investment as you review and approve options.
With the many details and moving parts involved in a room refurnish project, this level of management protects your investment by preventing costly mistakes and ensuring everything is handled properly from start to finish.
Design services are quoted separately prior to moving into furnishings.
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you. Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
The Design Phase has two parts — (1) the design plan, and (2) the curated selections. Together, these solve the core challenges homeowners typically face and create a clear path forward.
Included in the Design Phase:
1. Interior Design Plan
For the design planning, I guide you through a clear, step-by-step process to plan every detail of your redesign, complete with a to-scale floor plan and 3D renderings of your fully reimagined space. Together, we’ll make thoughtful layout and design decisions so you can confidently visualize the final result. Then on to the next step selections...
Floor Plan Example
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_fb027362171c4806958cc7a74f476fbe~mv2.jpg
3D Rendering Example
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9cc1800fe7114c7991f7167a53231405~mv2.jpg
2. Selection of Materials (for builds & remodels)
Concepts will be included in your design plan for review. Then we’ll organize a visit to our preferred showrooms to assist you in selecting materials, finishes, and fixtures.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9957db60fa8042108ab6ae5b650ac564~mv2.jpg
3. Selections of Furnishings (for refurnishing projects)
Concepts will be included in your design plan for review. Then I’ll organize specific options into a selections board for your approval, (usually two options per item.) Most furnishings will be sourced and ordered online through my exclusive trade vendors. For key pieces like sofas, we’ll schedule a visit to my preferred Nashville showroom for a “sit test” and fabric selection.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_07b95a6bd9234ee1a87abe95ff3dc90a~mv2.jpg
After selections are made and approved, we move into the Implementation Phase of the project.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/723f6f_a27ab4e4d766448da883143402f781ad~mv2.jpg
Once your design is finalized, we move into implementation, where everything is brought together.
I manage the full process, including purchasing furnishings, coordinating vendors, tracking orders, overseeing receiving and inspections, and handling delivery, installation, and final styling. Any issues, such as shipping damage, are handled on your behalf.
With the many details and moving parts involved in a room refurnish project, this level of management protects your investment by preventing costly mistakes and ensuring everything is handled properly from start to finish.
Questions?
Book a free complimentary call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen »
Most full-service refurnishing projects in Middle Tennessee typically require an investment of $15,000-$25,000 per room for furnishings, depending on the size of the space and overall scope. Design fees are separate from furnishings and are calculated based on the level of service required. For full-service refurnishing projects, design fees generally fall around 30-40% of the furnishings investment, reflecting the time, expertise, sourcing, and project coordination involved in delivering a fully curated space.
Investment level depends on the size of the space, and the brands and quality you prefer. We tailor our services & furnishing selections to our clients' specific needs and desired investment level. However, here is a guideline on pricing to refurnish a room:
• Good - $15,000-$25,000
• Better - $25,000-$35,000
• Best - $40,000+
During our in-home design consult,(https://www.615interiors.com/process-rates) I’ll help determine whether your goals and budget align with what’s realistically needed to achieve the look and level of finish you’re seeking, so we can move forward with clarity and confidence.
We are happy to design your home in phases at pace that you're comfortable with.
• Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
• More FAQs » (https://615interiors.com/contact#faq)
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
For a full transformation of your space, I will always suggest replacing most of the furnishings and decor. However, if you have a sentimental piece, or have already invested in a beautiful piece that you love, I'll do my best to work it into the design so that everything in the space harmonizes.
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
No, materials and contractor fees are not included in my design service pricing. While I collaborate with your contractor to ensure your vision is carried out, they are independent professionals hired and paid directly by you as the homeowner.
For materials and finishes—such as cabinetry, tile, countertops, and more—my design phase includes guided showroom visits where I accompany you to select the perfect options for your project. Once chosen, either you or your contractor will handle the purchase of those items.
This way, you get my expertise in curating high-quality, cohesive selections, while maintaining full transparency over material costs and contractor expenses.
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
It depends on the project scope. However, here is a general guideline:
• Room planning and design work: 1 month
• Sourcing of materials and/or furnishings: 1 month
• Purchasing, delivery and installation of furnishings can take 4-6 weeks or longer, depending on the manufacturer, (and if any items are custom).
• If construction/remodeling is required in your project, plan on an additional 3-6 months, or longer, depending on project scope and availability of your Contractor.
These are simply guidelines. Let's chat about timelines specific to your project. Book a free Consult Call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today »
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Contractors and builders bring essential expertise to a project, and their focus is rightly on construction. Most do not offer design services, and when they do, material selections may not fully reflect your style, lifestyle needs, or the overall vision for your home. They’re not typically considering how your furniture will function within the space, or how finishes, materials, and layouts will impact scale, flow, and the overall result once everything is brought together.
Because construction is a significant investment, having a clear design plan in place is crucial. By partnering with 615interiors before your project begins, you’ll have a thoughtful space plan and a cohesive design direction, allowing you to move forward with confidence and enjoy a smoother, more efficient build-out.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
I'm here for you. My process is designed to bring clarity and confidence to every stage of your project. Through detailed floor plans and 3D renderings of your actual space, you’re able to fully visualize the design before moving forward. From concept development to selecting every finish and furnishing, I manage the entire process for you.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
The process begins with a complimentary Zoom consult. If we determine the project is a good fit, you’ll receive a design questionnaire and we’ll schedule your In-Home Design Session.(https://www.615interiors.com/process-rates)
This paid 1–2 hour working session includes ideas, recommendations, and design guidance for your space. Afterward, we’ll review potential services for space planning, finishes, and furnishings. If everything aligns, Gwen will outline the next steps (https://www.615interiors.com/process-rates)for moving forward with a formal proposal.
Learn more about our Process & Rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/process-rates)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Process & Rates
Consult Video Call: Complimentary (30 min.)
Your design journey begins with a complimentary Zoom call with Gwen. This is a chance for us to connect, talk through your vision, and review what you’re hoping to achieve with your space. I’ll explain how my full service design process works, and if it feels like the right fit, we’ll schedule your in-home Design Session/Consult as the next step.
Book a complimentary consult call Now (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)»
STEP 2. In-Home Consult/Design Session: $500*
Get your questions answered and clear direction with this in-home mini design session - it's the first step for homeowners exploring professional design support and clarity on how to move forward. We’ll walk your space and discuss your goals, review your inspiration photos together, and talk through the level of guidance that best fits your project. Then we'll determine next steps, timeline, and an appropriate investment range.
Deliverables:
• Private, in-home design consultation tailored to your space
• Expert evaluation of your home, goals, and project potential
• Clear guidance on scope, priorities, and investment planning
• A personalized Design Project Summary (PDF) outlining recommended next steps
• A Style Mood Board curated just for you
*If you choose to move forward with our services, the consult fee will be applied toward your design investment.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
The Design Phase has two parts — (1) the design plan, and (2) the curated selections. Together, these solve the core challenges homeowners typically face and create a clear path forward.
Included in the Design Phase:
1. Interior Design Plan
For the design planning, I guide you through a clear, step-by-step process to plan every detail of your redesign, complete with a to-scale floor plan and 3D renderings of your fully reimagined space. Together, we’ll make thoughtful layout and design decisions so you can confidently visualize the final result. Then on to the next step selections...
Floor Plan Example
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_fb027362171c4806958cc7a74f476fbe~mv2.jpg
3D Rendering Example
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9cc1800fe7114c7991f7167a53231405~mv2.jpg
2. Selection of Materials (for builds & remodels)
Concepts will be included in your design plan for review. Then we’ll organize a visit to our preferred showrooms to assist you in selecting materials, finishes, and fixtures.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9957db60fa8042108ab6ae5b650ac564~mv2.jpg
3. Selections of Furnishings (for refurnishing projects)
Concepts will be included in your design plan for review. Then I’ll organize specific options into a selections board for your approval, (usually two options per item.) Most furnishings will be sourced and ordered online through my exclusive trade vendors. For key pieces like sofas, we’ll schedule a visit to my preferred Nashville showroom for a “sit test” and fabric selection.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_07b95a6bd9234ee1a87abe95ff3dc90a~mv2.jpg
After the design phase is complete, we'll move into the Implementation Phase.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you. Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/723f6f_a27ab4e4d766448da883143402f781ad~mv2.jpg
Once your design is finalized, we move into the Implementation Phase, where everything comes to life. I provide full-service implementation to bring your design together seamlessly. This includes purchasing your furnishings, coordinating vendors, tracking orders, overseeing receiving and inspections, and managing delivery, installation, and final styling. My team also handles packaging removal and any damage claims, which are common with large furnishing projects.
You’ll also gain access to my trusted trade vendors and preferred pricing not available to the public, along with a more curated selection of furnishings.
By managing every detail from start to finish, I ensure a smooth, stress-free experience and a beautifully executed final result, without you having to coordinate it all yourself.
_______________
Questions?
Book a free complimentary call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen »
Renovation
The answer depends on the quality of finishes and fixtures you select, and if you're doing the work yourself or hiring a General Contractor (GC), which will add at least 20% for labor. Hiring a skilled general contractor for a full remodel of a mid-to-high-end kitchen typically costs $65K and up.
Please don't believe what you see on HGTV.
HGTV's remodeling prices are often unrealistically low because the shows don't provide all the information about the costs involved. Also, producers use discounted goods and services, which isn't clear to viewers.
Be Wary of Google
You can find remodeling price guidelines on Google, BUT keep in mind that pricing listed there is often MUCH TOO LOW and does not include cost for labor. Always consult a reputable builder who specializes in quality renovations. We can make recommendations for you.
Why Design Planning Pays Off
A well-planned design approach saves time, minimizes stress, and helps avoid expensive missteps. If you’re busy, indecisive, or facing a larger renovation, partnering with an interior designer is one of the smartest investments you can make. Builders appreciate the clarity and direction a designer brings to the process, which often leads to a smoother project—and cost savings for you.
Learn more about our process & rates here.(https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a Complimentary consult call with Gwen today »
The answer depends on the quality of finishes and fixtures you select, and if you're doing the work yourself or hiring a General Contractor (GC), which will add at least 20% for labor. Hiring a skilled general contractor for a full remodel of a mid-to-high-end bathroom typically costs $50K and up.
Please don't believe what you see on HGTV.
HGTV's remodeling prices are often unrealistically low because the shows don't provide all the information about the costs involved. Also, producers use discounted goods and services, which isn't clear to viewers.
Be Wary of Google
You can find remodeling price guidelines on Google, BUT keep in mind that pricing listed there is often MUCH TOO LOW and does not include cost for labor. Always consult a reputable builder who specializes in quality renovations. We can make recommendations for you.
Why Design Planning Pays Off
A well-planned design approach saves time, minimizes stress, and helps avoid expensive missteps. If you’re busy, indecisive, or facing a larger renovation, partnering with an interior designer is one of the smartest investments you can make. Builders appreciate the clarity and direction a designer brings to the process, which often leads to a smoother project—and cost savings for you.
Learn more about our process & rates here.(https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a Complimentary consult call with Gwen today »
The answer depends on the project scope, quality of finishes and fixtures you desire, and if you're doing the work yourself, or hiring a general contractor (which will add at least 20% for labor). Always consult a reputable general contractor for a ballpark estimate on your project. We can make recommendations.
Please don't believe what you see on HGTV.
HGTV's remodeling prices are often unrealistically low because the shows don't provide all the information about the costs involved. Also, producers use discounted goods and services, which isn't clear to viewers.
Be Wary of Google
You can find remodeling price guidelines on Google, BUT keep in mind that pricing listed there is often MUCH TOO LOW and does not include cost for labor. Always consult a reputable builder who specializes in quality renovations. We can make recommendations for you.
Why Design Planning Pays Off
A well-planned design approach saves time, minimizes stress, and helps avoid expensive missteps. If you’re busy, indecisive, or facing a larger renovation, partnering with an interior designer is one of the smartest investments you can make. Builders appreciate the clarity and direction a designer brings to the process, which often leads to a smoother project—and cost savings for you.
Learn more about our process & rates here.(https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a Complimentary consult call with Gwen today »
Remodeling may cost more than a new car. But the bright side is that, depending on the project, investing in your home will actually help increase its value. Remodeling your home is an investment that will see a return.
While paying with cash for home improvement projects would be ideal, it’s not always possible. You do have options when it comes to financing, though, including home equity, refinancing, an FHA home improvement loan, a credit card, or a personal loan.
Many of the remodeling contractors we partner with offer payment options to homeowners. For interior design work, 615interiors offers the option to divide design fees into manageable payments, and we accept payments via check or electronically using card or bank transfer. Additionally, a convenient HELOC application link is embedded in our invoices as an option for financing. Our clients can be approved in as little as 5 minutes and initiate funding in as little as 5 days.
There are many types of home improvement loans, including:
• HELOC (home equity line of credit)
A HELOC offers homeowners a way to tap into their home equity for cash. You can borrow as you go, only pay interest on what you use. A HELOC gives you the flexibility to use the funds for almost anything you need. This is a major benefit of a HELOC as compared to loans that may only be used for a narrow range of purposes and charge higher interest rates.
• Home equity loans
A secured loan that uses your property as collateral. This can be a good way to fund home improvements if you can afford the payments.
• Cash-out refinance
A good option if you can lower your mortgage rate while taking cash out. This only works if current market rates are lower than your existing rate.
• Personal loans
Some lenders offer no-fee personal loans with competitive rates, high loan amounts, and long loan terms.
• Upstart
A good option for people with a low credit score or no credit history. Upstart considers factors like education and employment.
• LightStream
Offers no fees, low rates, and terms up to 12 years. Borrowers can apply for a joint loan to get a lower rate or higher loan amount.
• Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan
A conventional loan program that covers various renovation projects, but has stricter eligibility requirements than government-backed loans.
The best home improvement financing option depends on your situation.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today.
Anything worth doing needs time. Renovating a single small room can easily take 3 months from initial design research to finished construction, whereas a fuller renovation can take much longer. We always say, "renovation always takes longer and costs more than you think." But there are things you can do to plan ahead and mitigate the unexpected.
Give yourself time to design
A thorough design process should be given two to six months. Projects usually involve more decisions than people expect, so plan to spend several months defining your vision, and some time working with a professional to give it the clarity it deserves.
Allow time for permitting
If you're adding onto your home, permit(s) will be needed. Larger cities generally have more stringent permitting processes, so depending on where you live, the approval process can range from several weeks to several months. Once you've cleared this hurdle you can start building.
Don't believe what you see on TV
TV shows might lead you to believe that you can complete a dramatic makeover in three days, but the reality is that it takes much longer. Between demolition, delivery of materials, building time, and allowing some buffer time, expect at least a month for any renovation that is more than cosmetic. Even a month can be optimistic.
Anticipate scheduling conflicts
People tend to overlook the availability of professionals and materials. Depending on what products you’ve ordered and what trades you require (tilers, plumbers, painters, glass fitters), you may not be able to begin construction on a moment’s notice.
A note on seasonality
It is wise to begin your project in the off-seasons, rather than during the spring and early summer, when people are trying to ready their homes for entertaining. November and December are packed with holidays, so it can be tough finding tradespeople to schedule time with! All of this can be avoided by starting early and booking in advance.
Most Importantly
Always consult a reputable General Contractor who specializes in renovation. We can make recommendations.
Check out our blog post What Is a Reasonable Renovation Timeline? (https://www.615interiors.com/post/what-is-a-reasonable-renovation-timeline-1)
Another excellent resource is Houzz.com's "Beginner's Guide to Home Remodeling", check it out here » https://www.houzz.com/education (https://www.houzz.com/education)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today.
Contractors and builders bring essential expertise to a project, and their focus is rightly on construction. Most do not offer design services, and when they do, material selections may not fully reflect your style, lifestyle needs, or the overall vision for your home. They’re not typically considering how paint, finishes, fabrics, and furnishings will work together—or how each choice will impact scale and flow.
Because construction is a significant investment, having a clear design plan in place is crucial. By partnering with 615interiors before your project begins, you’ll have a thoughtful space plan and a cohesive design direction, allowing you to move forward with confidence and enjoy a smoother, more efficient build-out.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Help ensure a beautiful, successful remodel by avoiding these five common mistakes.
Starting without a plan
The most regrettable renovations are invariably the ones that don't have a plan. Without one, all sorts of things can go awry, and most homeowners find out too late — a vanity that’s too big for your bathroom, a fridge door that hits into the dishwasher, a bed that won’t fit up the stairs. Planning is paramount to success.
Straying from the designs
Change orders are sometimes necessary, but they can cost serious time and money. Work closely with your team upfront and think carefully about the designs before work begins; then stick to them to minimize delays and budget increases.
Investing in the wrong places
Don’t skimp on the fundamental elements of your home — the foundation, structure, insulation, etc. In fact, you might be dealing with this because the last owner didn't. If you need to cut costs, do so on things that are fairly easy to upgrade later, such as appliances and finishes. Having shoddy plumbing is worse than waiting on a luxury backsplash.
Underestimating costs
Those who don’t budget properly can run out of money and be left with an unfinished project. Be meticulous about crafting your budget, and always include a 10% to 20% buffer for unexpected costs — you can bet there will be a few.
Holding back
Do as much as possible during your first remodel to avoid expensive rework, renovation regret, and future higher prices. If you’re gutting your kitchen now, it’ll cost much less to install that island you really want versus waiting to do it in 10 years when it becomes its own project — plus you’ll get to enjoy it longer.
An excellent resource is Houzz.com's "Beginner's Guide to Home Remodeling", check it out here » https://www.houzz.com/education (https://www.houzz.com/education)
Questions? Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today »
At 615interiors, we offer both interior decorating and interior design services. While we provide guidance on floor planning and design decisions, we do not manage construction, subcontractors, or trades such as painters, carpenters, or cabinetry installers. We are not builders, architects, or engineers.
For renovation projects, we recommend working with a qualified General Contractor to oversee construction, and we’re happy to provide trusted referrals upon request.
Thinking of Managing Construction Yourself?
A new build or remodel involves countless moving parts and a wide range of specialized trades — demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, tile, cabinetry, finishing work, and more. A General Contractor typically charges at least 20% of the total project cost to coordinate, schedule, manage, and pay all subcontractors.
While it may be tempting to take on that role yourself to save money, it is truly a full-time job. Unless you have significant construction experience and ample time, the process can quickly become overwhelming. We’ve seen homeowners experience burnout, delays, and costly mistakes that require even more money to correct later. Proceed with caution.
If you need referrals, we’re happy to recommend reputable builders and contractors for your project.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today »
What To Expect During Your Project
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