When renovating a space, taking the right steps and putting function first is as critical as aesthetics. In our “OK or Not OK?” series, we put the most common dilemmas on the table, from the kitchen to lighting, from planning to the building site.
1. Taking space from the living room for the kitchen
OK, but debatable. If the living room is big enough, it’s OK. But if the living room is already small, enlarging the kitchen squeezes the living space; in that case it’s not OK. Before removing a wall, always check whether it is load-bearing; see columns and beams in renovation.
2. Putting wardrobes in every room
Not OK. Storage is important, but putting wardrobes in every room makes spaces needlessly smaller. Concentrating storage in the right places is far more efficient.
3. Renewing the surfaces without touching the plumbing and wiring
Not OK. Building something new on top of old and inadequate infrastructure is not right. For example, if the existing electrical system can’t handle the LEDs in your new furniture, the problem will surface sooner or later and you’ll have to tear up the new work.
4. Going ahead with the first plan
Not OK. The first plan is the first stage. A good plan is revised and changed many times; this is a natural part of the process.
5. Wanting an exact copy of a house on Pinterest
Not OK. Getting inspiration is great; but wanting an exact copy of something that doesn’t suit your home is not right. Dimensions, light and lifestyle differ. Take the idea and adapt it to your own home. To clarify your style, take a look at our article where to start when designing a home.
6. Changing the project on site
Not OK. The design stage is where we spend a lot of time and every detail is thought through. Once work is on site, the design is finished. Small revisions are OK; but major revisions hurt both the schedule and the budget.
7. Investing in the most-used area
Definitely OK. Directing your budget to the areas where you spend the most time (often the kitchen and living area) is the decision that adds the most value to your daily life.
8. Treating lighting as an afterthought
Not OK. Lighting is not a detail to be added to the design later; it is a layer that must be planned from the very beginning. If electrical points are not set together with the layout, breaking into walls later is inevitable.
Frequently asked questions
What should be prioritised in a renovation?
First the infrastructure (plumbing, electrics, insulation), then the most-used areas, and decoration last.
How many revisions are normal in a project?
A few rounds of revisions at the design stage are normal and healthy. What matters is that decisions are finalised before work begins.
For similar content, read our articles mistakes we think are right and finding the right architect, or explore our decoration and renovation service.
