And how a designer can help you answer them with confidence

Planning a renovation can be exciting, but it can also bring a lot of questions (and stress) to the surface. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen, upgrading a bathroom, or reworking an entire level of your home, knowing what to ask before you start can save you time, money, and second-guessing later on.

As a designer who partners with clients throughout kitchen and bath renovations, I’ve seen what happens when homeowners dive in without a plan or try to manage it all on their own. So before you start swinging a hammer or making big decisions, here are five questions worth asking yourself.

1. What’s not working in this space—and why?

Before considering finishes or fixtures, it’s essential to assess how your current space feels and functions.
Ask yourself:

Is the layout inefficient?
Are there storage issues?
Is the lighting poor or dated?

When we start with what’s not working, we design solutions with real impact, not just aesthetic upgrades.

2. What’s my investment—and where should I spend it?

Knowing your renovation budget is essential, but knowing how to allocate it is even more valuable.
A designer helps you:

Prioritize where to invest
Avoid costly trial-and-error
Select materials that offer both beauty and value

If you’re unsure what a realistic budget looks like for your goals, that’s something I help you define during our early planning stages.

3. How will this renovation affect other parts of the home?

Renovations—especially in open-concept homes—often have a ripple effect throughout the entire space. Updating your kitchen flooring may require reevaluating the transition between the living room and the kitchen. A brighter bathroom might make an adjacent hallway feel darker.

Thinking holistically helps you maintain flow and cohesion, which is why I always encourage clients to take a step back before we dive in.

4. Who’s helping me make these decisions—and can I trust them?

One of the most significant stressors in a renovation is having too many disconnected voices: contractors, suppliers, trades—all asking questions at different times.

That’s where a designer becomes your advocate and your guide. I help you:

Make design decisions early and confidently
Communicate clearly with trades and vendors
Ensure every choice supports your overall vision

5. How do I want this space to feel when it’s finished?

Function matters—but feeling is what turns a renovation into a transformation.
Do you want the space to feel grounded? Bright and airy? Warm and inviting for gatherings?
By defining this from the start, we anchor the entire design process with purpose.

Ready to renovate with clarity and confidence?

If you’re thinking about updating your kitchen or bathroom and want expert support in bringing it all together, I offer a service designed just for you:

If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation and want an experienced design partner by your side, my Designer By Your Side service is created just for that.

This service is based on a flat fee tied to a block of hours, tailored to the scope of your project. Whether you need help with layout, finish selections, or on-site walkthroughs during construction, I provide expert guidance throughout, so every decision feels intentional and aligned with your vision.

👉 Click here to book your consultation

Let’s make your renovation feel as smooth and inspired as it should be.

Have A Fabulous Day!!

Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Renovation Project