Renovation & interior design FAQ
Short, direct answers to the questions that arrive in our inbox most often. Follow the links for the full detail.
How much contingency should I add to a renovation budget?
Hold back 10–20% of your total budget. Use the higher end for older homes or any project that opens walls and floors, where hidden rot, outdated wiring or uneven joists are common discoveries. See the checklist.
Which room should I renovate first?
Start with anything that protects the building — roof, damp, structure and unsafe electrics. After that, prioritize the room you use most, usually the kitchen, because it improves daily life fastest.
Should flooring go in before or after kitchen cabinets?
It depends on the floor. Tile is usually laid first. Floating floors such as laminate or rigid-core vinyl normally go in after cabinets so they can expand and contract freely. Always follow the flooring manufacturer's instructions.
What color temperature bulbs should I use at home?
2700K for living rooms and bedrooms, 3000K for kitchens and dining, and 3500–4000K for home offices and utility spaces. Choose CRI 90 or higher. More in our lighting guide.
Is luxury vinyl plank better than laminate?
Rigid-core LVP is more water resistant, so it suits kitchens, bathrooms and basements. Good laminate with an AC4 rating resists scratches well and can be cheaper. Compare both in our flooring table.
How do I test paint colors properly?
Paint A4-sized samples on two different walls and look at them in morning, afternoon and lamp light. Check the light reflectance value (LRV) too. See bedroom color schemes.
Do I need a permit to renovate a bathroom?
Purely cosmetic updates rarely need one, but moving plumbing, adding circuits or altering structure often does. Rules vary by location, so check with your local building department or council before work begins.
How can I make a small room feel bigger?
Use vertical storage, fewer but properly sized furniture pieces, mirrors opposite windows and layered lighting. Our small-space ranking covers the details.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
Construction commonly runs 6–12 weeks, and planning, design and ordering can add several more weeks beforehand. Custom cabinetry and stone worktops are the usual causes of delay.