We know there are ways to save money , and certainly ways to spend (tons) on a Home Renovation.

But - WHERE to save and where to spend ?

We explore 8 fundamental areas of a home renovation, that have valuable spend/save options. These are the fundamental “bones” , or structural elements of the home, not the decor.

Fireplace | Paint vs Re-build

Purchasing an older home, with a fireplace that is quite “dated” poses a bit of a design challenge. We often see old hearths with ugly orange gloss tiles, paired with brass fireplace inserts. (oh boy !)

The high-end resolve is to demolish entirely and build out an entirely new Fireplace wall.

However, the cost-saving( and arguably artistic ) solution is to paint out what is currently there. Brick especially paints nicely in a solid white or black. The actual fireplace itself can be sprayed a deep matte black. Then, add a contemporary floating mantle.

DONE.

2. Doors | Solid vs Hollow-core

With the popularity of the Open-plan, Often there aren’t a huge number of doors in a home. We argue that, that being said, you might want to splurge on the pleasure of a heavy door. There is a special luxury found here, doubly so if you choose one with a unique design.

The cost differential can be over double, however.

3. Hardware | Designer vs Box-Store

This is an area where we like to suggest a bit of savings. There are so many mass-made options that yield a similar look to their designer counterparts.

Left: Buster & Punch. Right : Wayfair.

4. Kitchens | Re-Spray vs Remodel

This is a huge decision with a large financial implication. You could re-spray your old “oak-ey” ( and ugly ! ) cabinets with a matte black or white or grey, and get a fantastic updated result, almost overnight. Or, opt for a unique colour and have some fun. A trendy colour will help diminish the impact of the outdated door style or cabinet design. A typical suburban home might cost you less than $10000.
Alternately, an entire Kitchen renovation could easily have you over $50000.

The kitchen is arguably the “heart of the home” and the area that people often get excited to design as their own. However, your choice to spend or save here might implicate the extent to which you can renovate other areas of the house, insofar as how far your budget can strech.

5. Floors | Hardwood vs LVT

All the Home Fashion Blogs are filled with shiny renovations featuring lux hardwood floors throughout. Engineered, wide-plank woods - Maples, Exotics, Wirescraped Oaks, can run as high as $15/ sq foot depending on the brand and the finish.

A less expensive option on the market, is LVT ( Luxury Vinyl Tile ) . Usually in the neighbourhood of $4-$6 sf, with print options to resemble hardwood. Mannington’s LVT looks just like the real thing, pictured below.

Although Re-sale value still dictates that hardwood itself is the most coveted option, bear in mind all options when designing your budget.

6. Baseboard | Wood Vs MDF

If you can do it, real wood baseboards can create a luxe feel for the entire house. Along with the floor, this is the one consistent element that defines the home.

However, similar designs can be achieved using painted mdf. We recommend using large-scale sizes, and stacking multiple pieces to create visual interest,

The cost differential between the two, can be over double.

7. Stairs | Refinishing vs Replacing

Modern railing choices include the use of metal ballusters, glass and often simple, clean lines.

While removing and replacing might not be in the budget, you can update the look easily by painting out the bannister and spindles in a deep black. Refinish stairs to match the colour of your hardwood floors, and voila - instantly updated.

8. Closet Doors | Decorative vs Flat-panel

Using the opportunity to add visual interest in the architectural details of the house, often pays back ten-fold. There is intentionality that goes with building design elements into basic structural components. Homes that have lovely details like this, read as “curated” or “personalized” - one more step in transforming a house into a home. With often minimal financial difference, try making a more unique choice on closet doors and finishing with pretty casing & architrave.

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Fireplace | Paint vs Re-build