There is so much to consider when renovating your space, it usually starts with the thoughts of I need a change or this space just isn't working anymore, lets tear out a wall! Right!

So then we all have this feeling of empowerment and embracing the change with excitement, hit the local box store and start 'getting what we need'. Followed by opinion shopping online and with family and friends. Then the next step.....tackle the project. The next step is followed by total frustration and overwhelming thoughts of ' WHY' am I doing this again. Right.......

My designer instincts tell me that POWER to YOU! You have embraced change - but don't take on the menu before you order from the chef! I pride myself in being able to tackle a lot of home improvement projects and know when to call in for help and seek advice. This is ok, don't we all seek advice, get an opinion to make ourselves run better or function more efficiently, and we do this without hesitation. Our doctor, lawyer, butcher, we all have roles and we seek them for advice.So never hesitate to call your Designer or trades people.

So here is some FREE advice for WISDOM Wednesday.

If you are planning on a small home renovation(one or two rooms), that could entail one or all of the following: painting , flooring, lighting. Start compiling your thoughts and designs in a notebook, do this over two weeks. You will see how your opinions change and grow. Then go to a big box store and you will have a better understanding on what you need to select based on what you have compiled, what you are drawn to. Confirm this project information with a Design Consultant. Or seek advice from the many knowledgeable staff members, and you will make concise affirmative decisions, and feel empowered to finish your project. Your efforts will be awarded with wise choices and top drawer work at the end.

However if you are planning a large renovation, which consists of the above in more than one room, or a large part of your home. I would recommend contacting a designer. A designer will walk you through the space, ask questions on function, mood and harmony. From this conversation the designer can advise on removing walls, re-configuring the space that may include lighting options and traffic patterns. The designer will return with a design plan as you work together to achieve this project, and if needed will recommend or source a trade team to take the plan to the next level.

What makes up a Trade Team? Well its a combination of experts that you draw on for their knowledge and skill that will complete the renovation. This would include a General Contractor, possibly a draftsman, carpenter, electrical, plumbing, painter, drywaller, and tile setter.

Remember my line about the menu selection and cook? Well a well organized skilled renovation is completed when a team uses its knowledge and resources together. The chef has the vision, there is someone who serves the meal, and there are many prep cooks that pull the skills together to complete it.

And remember when you go to a restaurant, you trust that team with your order. The same respect should be given to your Designer and Trade team as in this way your expectations will be truly satisfied.

The other tip I would always say, is that it is better to seek advice in the beginning than to try to work through problems that could have been alleviated. Never hesitate to contact YOUR Designer or Trades we work with YOU. That's money well spent, Rightt?

General Contractor - Architect- Designer - Trades = TEAM

Our conversation will continue next Wisdom Wednesday by the trades and roles that make up these teams.

Respectfully -