Pinn Studio
Whether you are in an immediate rush to up-size your home or maybe you've just been pondering the thought, there are so many aspects to consider. On the real-estate side of things, you might be considering things like cost, resale value, and location just to name a few. However, have you also been considering the interior design potential of your current home versus the homes you are looking at? Maybe your existing space feels cramped but it just needs a little extra TLC or starting fresh just sounds right. Is this starting to sound like HGTV's show "Love It or List It"?
A Small Space That Feels Large I East Bay Times
The truth is, this big decision doesn't just occur on TV. Proper design considerations are important for deciding to upsize to a new home or rework your existing space. Key considerations like furnishing, renovations, or remodeling should be evaluated for both your current home and for the ones you are exploring. Comfort in Interior Design is all about spaces that provide well-being. Even though this may be objective to each person, there are some key parameters for the interior of a home. Let's take a deeper look into the 4 points you should consider before taking the plunge.
1- How Do You Use Your Home?
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During your home search, try to really think through and play out a day living in the space. Don't be distracted by the bells and whistles of beautiful finishes and staged decor. Think of what you really need in functionality that you don't currently have versus what is just a nice wish list item. Is it possible to renovate your current home to add the functionality you need or do you really have to move? Don't forget to closely examine the crucial areas that are the most costly to renovate such as kitchens and bathrooms.
The more space the better is a common North American mentality. However, often people forget costs that have to do with interior modifications or new household purchases - appliances, furnishings, and even window treatments. Extra rooms that you don't plan to grow into often turn into wasted space or storage for more times you don't really need.
Pro Tip: Before you move, look at your existing furniture or decor items and consider where they would work in your potential new home. Don't make the mistake of just bringing everything with you. Not only will you be paying unnecessary costs to move things you're just going to toss, but it also causes stress to see it all pile up in your new space.
2- Realistic Cost Expectations For Renovations
Design by White Dahlia Design
Bigger homes mean more square footage but sometimes each individual room may be smaller than you are used to. This is often the case with larger old homes, if the rooms aren't quite the right size you may need to consider remodeling to open up the floorplan. See above for an open concept floorplan.
Often people "guestimate" the cost to renovate a space incorrectly right off the bat. Having a realistic idea of the interior work you want to get done and the potential costs can help you make the right decision and avoid buyer's remorse. Your list should include big and smaller details such as interior paint, replacing baseboards or trim, building or removing partition walls, fixing electrical, plumbing, and so on.
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Pro Tip: you may wish your laundry room was located on the second floor vs. the main floor. First, take a look at the existing plumbing and layout of your home. Moving plumbing can be costly so see if there are less expensive creative places you can put it that already has access to accessible. ie. take a look at the stylish bathroom laundry room above!
The point is, the cost of repairs and renovations can easily creep up. Price per square foot can average based on the room type and which city you live in. However, we often use $200-$250 per square foot as a safe estimation. Just remember that every project will vary depending on the design itself, plumbing or electrical work, the finishes and selections, and whether or not a general contractor or designer is needed for a permit.
3 - Realistic Costs To Furnish A Home
White Dahlia Design
Even though many people tend to guestimate renovation costs, they don't even know where to start when it comes to estimating furnishing costs. It's especially important to have accurate expectations when upsizing since you will most likely require new furniture that will properly fit the space and decor of each room.
For example, if you need a new sofa for your living room design. On average, a sofa can cost anywhere from low end $ 2,000- 3,000, mid-level $3,000 -7,000, and on the luxury end, it can be $30,000+. On top of the main furniture items, you will have to account for minor items like side tables, lamps, and small decorative items that will add up quickly.
We aren't saying you need a giant budget, but you do have to have a budget that will allow you to realistically complete each room in the house. It's also part of a move vs stay budget people forget to consider. For example, on average our clients spend for low-end furnishings $ 5,000 - 9,000 per room, for mid-level furnishings it's $10,000 -14,000, and for high-end, it can be 30,000+ per room.
Wayfair Ellinmylly Sectional West elm Harmony Sectional
Typically since each client and room is unique, the budget requirements will vary. However, remember to keep in mind these average costs. So the best tip we can give you is to make a very thought-out list of items you want or need, and items you could keep. We can (or other designers) review all the items to see what can be re-used in a design. Another great option to manage your furniture budget is by selling or auctioning off old items.
4- Plan For The Future
Design by White Dahlia Design
One of the biggest reasons people want to up-size is because they are starting a family. We get it, it's pretty obvious that you may need more space but really think about your goals. Look at your goals and intentions for the next 5-8 years in coordination with the occupants living there but be truly realistic about it. Make a list of your needs, wants, and musts for each individual.
Will you need to accommodate seniors, young adults, or are you expecting? Maybe you need to consider extra space for frequent guests? This will not only help you narrow down the number of rooms but will help you to determine the overall square footage required. It will also help you to determine the type, size, and furniture you can keep or may need to purchase now or down the road.
Large Space Design Inspiration I Pinterest
There is so much more to consider for upsizing when it comes to the Interior Design side of things. We hope these points are helpful to you when you are considering upsizing to a larger home. If you are currently pondering over this decision or you've already taken the plunge, don't forget to give us a shout to answer any of your design questions or start off by taking a look at our online design packages.