Home renovation is fun and with a series of surprises thrown in randomly. The more you’re prepared the less you’ll be shocked. As always the first step is research and creating a budget.
Whether you're updating a single room or transforming your entire home, starting with a solid plan can make all the difference. Focus on balancing the aesthetics with functionality as that’ll impact your house’s resale value. Here’s a guide to help you get started!
Finding Inspiration
1. Pinterest
An endless source of creative ideas, Pinterest offers visual inspiration for every aspect of home design. Play around with keywords that come to your mind because the more you search, the better results Pinterest will give you. Create boards for different rooms to keep your ideas organized.
2. Houzz
Houzz has for long been considered as a go-to for unique home interior designs. Visit their Get Ideas section and look for DIY projects. They also have a Discussions section where you can ask questions and general contractors and renovators usually reply in detail.
3. Instagram
Hashtags like #HomeRenovation and #InteriorDesign is your easiest source of inspiration. Many DIY renovators and influencers post regular projects and also offer a detailed video describing their process and equipment and material used.
Interior Decor Resources
1. IKEA Hackers
A community-driven site where people share their unique modifications and upgrades to standard IKEA furniture, perfect for budget-friendly and creative solutions.
2. Apartment Therapy
Offers practical tips for small spaces and apartment living, focusing on stylish yet functional decor.
3. Wayfair
An online store with a vast selection of home goods, offering ideas for every style and budget.
Video Resources for DIY and Professional Tips
1. YouTube Channels
- Home RenoVision DIY: Hosted by Jeff Thorman, this channel provides detailed DIY tutorials, from basic repairs to complete room overhauls. Make this your go-to channel from small to big repairs around the house.
- Mr. Kate: Known for their creative and budget-friendly approaches, Mr. Kate offers a mix of DIY interior design and makeovers.
2. TikTok Inspiration
- The Sorry Girls: They offer quick DIY home decor tips and hacks, perfect for easy and impactful changes. They also have a YouTube channel for longer explanation videos.
- DIY Danie: If you’re a fan of dark academia home decor, you’ll enjoy her content. Her projects are timeless and romantic with just the right amount of creativity.
Planning Your Renovation
- Plan and Prioritize: What is that you want to achieve - a cosmetic update or a functional overhaul? Prioritize projects based on your needs and the impact they'll have on your living space.
- Budget Wisely: Allocate funds for each aspect of your renovation. Remember to include a buffer for unexpected expenses. If you think you’re going over budget, prioritize projects that’ll make the most difference.
- Learn and Prepare: Watch tutorials, read guides, or attend workshops. Gather all the tools and materials you'll need before starting. You can rent equipment from your local hardware store.
- Safety First: Wear protective gear like gloves and goggles. Be aware of electrical wiring and plumbing locations to avoid accidents. If you have no experience with either, trust the professionals.
- Take Your Time: DIY projects can be time-consuming. Don't rush. Take the time to do things right, ensuring quality and avoiding mistakes that could cost you more in the long run.
For more inspiration and home renovation advice, visit Your Kingston Contractor.
