Creating a More Personal Home: The Power of Simplicity in Interior Design

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to be swept away by the latest tech gadgets, from smart speakers to Bluetooth-connected picture frames. While these computer-operated products can be exciting and functional, they can sometimes take away from the essence of what makes a home feel truly personal. When it comes to interior design, less really can be more, especially when it comes to incorporating tech products into your space. Especially living in Santa Clarita, so close to Los Angeles one of the tech hubs of the Us, we can get a little lost in the new exciting things. Here’s why opting for fewer tech-driven accessories and products can help create a more intimate and personalized home environment.

1. Focusing on Connection, Not Convenience

When designing a home, the ultimate goal is to create a space that feels reflective of who you are. Personal items—photos, artwork, heirlooms—tell stories and express individuality. In contrast, tech accessories like Bluetooth speakers, digital photo frames, or smart TVs can sometimes feel impersonal. These gadgets are convenient, yes, but they can often feel more like a temporary addition rather than a true reflection of your personality and taste. By embracing simpler, non-digital accessories, you make space for items that have emotional or aesthetic value. A vintage lamp, hand-carved wooden figurines, or a collection of books not only add character to a room but also create lasting memories that a digital screen or Bluetooth device simply can’t match.

2. Reducing Clutter and Overstimulation

Our homes should be sanctuaries, spaces where we can relax, unwind, and recharge. However, when every room is filled with tech gadgets, from TVs to wireless speakers, it can feel overwhelming. The constant presence of screens and digital devices contributes to a sense of overstimulation, which can hinder our ability to truly unwind. Simplicity in design often brings a sense of calm. When you limit the tech accessories in your space, you allow room for your mind to breathe. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and tactile materials like wood, cotton, and leather make a room feel warm and inviting. These materials engage our senses in a way that technology simply cannot, creating a richer, more personal experience.

3. The Joy of Handcrafted and Unique Pieces

One of the most beautiful aspects of interior design is the ability to incorporate unique pieces that speak to your personal style. Whether it’s a handcrafted table, a painting from a local artist, or a rug passed down through generations, these objects carry meaning that connects us to the past, our culture, and our values. When you remove technology-driven accessories from the equation, you give space to more one-of-a-kind objects. The more personal touches in your home, the more the space feels uniquely yours. There’s something deeply satisfying about a room that feels like it was curated with intention, rather than being filled with gadgets that anyone could easily buy.

4. The Freedom of Flexibility

Another overlooked benefit of minimizing technology in your home is the freedom it gives you to change and evolve your space. Tech gadgets like TV mounts, Bluetooth speakers, or smart devices often require a certain electrical layout, and once they’re installed, they can restrict how the space can be re-arranged. On the other hand, a room filled with simple, non-digital furnishings offers the flexibility to play with layouts and experiment with different styles. You can swap out a piece of furniture, move artwork around, or change color schemes without having to worry about the placement of wires or tech devices. This sense of freedom is especially important if you like to refresh your space often or if you want to avoid the sense that your home feels like it belongs to a showroom or a tech store.

5. The Rapid Pace of Technological Evolution

One of the challenges of incorporating technology into your home is that it evolves so quickly. The products we invest in today can easily become obsolete tomorrow, with new versions and upgrades arriving at lightning speed. What seemed like an exciting, cutting-edge gadget just a few years ago can quickly feel outdated and in need of replacement. This constant cycle of improvement can leave you feeling like you’re always trying to catch up. So your once-modern design gets quickly overshadowed by the next big thing. By choosing fewer tech-based accessories, you free yourself from the need to continually update and replace products. Instead, you can invest in timeless pieces that will remain relevant for years, allowing your home to maintain its charm and character without the constant pressure to upgrade.

6. Embracing the Power of Imagination

Finally, when you choose not to rely on tech accessories to “fill” a room, you leave room for imagination. You’re free to envision your space in a way that’s grounded in your own creativity rather than dictated by the latest gadget. For example, instead of relying on a smart home system to control the lighting, why not invest in a collection of beautiful lamps that you can switch on with a touch of a button or a simple pull of a chain? Instead of a digital photo frame, you could design a gallery wall featuring framed family portraits, travel photos, and original art that express your story in a way that’s tangible and meaningful. This approach encourages you to engage with your home on a deeper level, letting your imagination shape the space in a more personal way.

While technology can be an important tool in home design, it shouldn’t overshadow the personal elements that make a house feel like a home. By scaling back on tech-driven accessories and embracing more timeless, handcrafted, and meaningful pieces, you create a space that is deeply reflective of who you are. It’s a space where the focus is on connection, comfort, and creativity—elements that make a home truly yours. So, the next time you're designing a room, take a step back and ask yourself: Does this piece truly add value to my space, or is it simply adding noise? By embracing simplicity and personalization, your home will not only be a place to live, but a place to truly thrive.

8 Mistakes to Avoid During a Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel

Renovating your kitchen or bathroom is an exciting venture, but it’s not without its challenges. Whether you're completely redesigning the space or making a few updates, it's easy to make mistakes along the way that can derail your project or leave you with a result that doesn’t meet your expectations. As a kitchen and bathroom designer, I've seen it all—homeowners getting caught up in trends, rushing decisions, or neglecting essential details.

To help ensure your remodel goes as smoothly as possible, here are 10 common mistakes to avoid, along with tips on how to make sure your renovation project stays on track, on budget, and on time.

1. Not Listening to the Designer or Contractor

One of the most frequent mistakes I see is homeowners not trusting the expertise of their designer or contractor. These professionals are there to guide you through the project and prevent costly errors. When they tell you something won’t look right or that a particular material or design idea isn’t practical, it’s essential to listen.

How to Avoid It: If you hire a designer or contractor, trust their judgment—they have years of experience in creating functional, beautiful spaces. Share your ideas, but also be open to their suggestions and be willing to compromise when necessary. Good communication is key, so ensure everyone is on the same page before proceeding with any major decisions.

2. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Make Purchases

It’s tempting to put off buying materials or appliances, but waiting until the last minute can cause delays and increase costs. Many popular items, such as countertops, cabinets, and appliances, often require lead times, and waiting can cause your project to come to a halt while you wait for supplies to arrive.

How to Avoid It: Start making decisions early, and aim to have all your materials and appliances purchased before construction begins. This ensures that your contractor has everything they need and that the remodel can proceed on schedule. Consider availability, delivery time, and the potential for supply chain delays.

3. Not Setting a Clear Budget

Many homeowners dive into a remodel without a clear budget in mind, which can lead to overspending or running out of money halfway through the project. This mistake can also result in tough decisions about what to cut back on or sacrifice.

How to Avoid It: Set a realistic budget early on, and make sure to include a contingency fund (usually 10-15% of your total budget) for unforeseen expenses. Factor in all costs, including materials, labor, permits, and even additional costs like waste removal or storage fees. Be honest about your financial limitations and prioritize the features that matter most to you.

4. Failing to Research Contractors

Choosing the right contractor is one of the most critical aspects of any renovation project. Picking someone based solely on price or availability can lead to disappointment if their work quality or reliability isn’t up to par.

How to Avoid It: Do your research before hiring a contractor. Look at reviews, ask for recommendations, and review their past work. It's also important to ask for references from previous clients to gauge their experience. Be sure that they are licensed and insured.

5. Doing Part of the Remodel Yourself

Some homeowners try to save money by doing part of the remodel themselves, thinking they can handle certain tasks, such as demo, drywall work, or electrical work. While DIY can work for small updates, major remodels should always be left to professionals.

How to Avoid It: Understand your limitations and recognize when it's time to call in a professional. Hiring an experienced contractor ensures that the work is done safely, up to code, and with high-quality results. Poorly executed DIY work can cost more to fix in the long run, so let the professionals handle the heavy lifting.

6. Neglecting to Plan for Proper Lighting

Lighting is often an afterthought during a kitchen or bathroom remodel, but it’s one of the most important elements in creating a functional and welcoming space. Poor lighting can make even the most beautifully designed room feel uninviting and uncomfortable.

How to Avoid It: Work with your designer to develop a comprehensive lighting plan that includes ambient, task, and accent lighting. Ensure that you have sufficient lighting for key areas such as workspaces (kitchen countertops or bathroom vanity), while also incorporating softer lighting for ambiance and relaxation.

7. Underestimating the Timeline

A common mistake in kitchen and bathroom remodels is underestimating how long the project will take. Renovations often take longer than expected due to delays with materials, contractor scheduling, or unforeseen issues that arise once construction begins. I always say no matter how much planning is done ahead of time, something is going to happen or pop up. Just have to roll with it and adjust. No point in panicking, as its never the end of the world, everything can be fixed or adjusted for.

How to Avoid It: Set realistic expectations for the timeline and be prepared for potential delays. Work with your contractor to establish a clear project schedule with milestones and a completion date. Factor in extra time for deliveries, design revisions, and unforeseen issues. Patience is key in ensuring the project is done right.

8. Ignoring the Flow of the Space

Designing a beautiful kitchen or bathroom is about more than just picking out pretty tiles or fixtures. Ensuring that the layout is functional and that the flow of the space works for your needs is just as important.

How to Avoid It: Consult with your designer to ensure the layout is practical. In the kitchen, consider the work triangle—where the sink, stove, and fridge are located—and make sure it supports a natural workflow. In bathrooms, think about the placement of key fixtures (toilet, shower, sink) and ensure there's enough space for movement. Planning a functional layout will save you time, energy, and frustration in the long run.

Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom can transform your home and improve your daily life, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of your renovation project.

Take the time to listen to your designer and contractor, establish a clear budget and timeline, and choose quality professionals to help execute your vision. With the right planning and mindset, you’ll create a beautiful, functional space that enhances your home for years to come!

Exploring Some of My Favorite Design Styles: Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Revival

When it comes to interior design, I find that some styles resonate more deeply than others, creating spaces that feel warm, inviting, and timeless. Two of those are Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Revival. Both styles are rich in history, cultural influences, and natural beauty, but they each offer a unique approach to design, blending elements from the old world with a relaxed, comfortable sensibility. Today, I’ll dive into how these two iconic design styles are being used in modern kitchen and bathroom renovations to create spaces that are both functional and full of character.

Mediterranean Revival: A Sun-Drenched, Timeless Style

Inspired by the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea—like Italy, Spain, Greece, and Morocco—Mediterranean Revival style embodies a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The style is known for its connection to nature, an abundance of natural light, and a combination of luxurious and rustic elements. I’m particularly drawn to its warm, earthy tones, intricate tilework, and elegant yet lived-in feel, making it a perfect choice for both kitchen and bath renovations.

Mediterranean Revival in Kitchen Renovations:

When renovating a kitchen in the Mediterranean Revival style, the goal is to create a space that feels open, airy, and inviting. These kitchens often serve as the heart of the home, blending rustic charm with modern functionality. Here are a few key elements I love in Mediterranean kitchen renovations:

• Hand-Painted Tile Backsplashes: One of the most iconic features of Mediterranean kitchens is the use of hand-painted ceramic tiles. In a Mediterranean kitchen, the backsplash is often where the eye is drawn. Imagine colorful tiles in shades of blue, yellow, and green, forming intricate patterns or floral designs.

• Wood and Stone Materials: Mediterranean kitchens often feature a mix of rustic materials, such as wooden beams, stone countertops, and terracotta tiles. These natural elements evoke the feel of the Mediterranean countryside, where earthy tones and textures reign supreme. I love the look of stone used for countertops or islands, offering durability while creating a luxurious, organic feel.

• Open Shelving and Rustic Charm: Mediterranean kitchens are often designed to feel welcoming and lived-in, with open shelving that displays everything from decorative bowls to fresh herbs in terracotta pots. The warm, rustic wood shelving adds a touch of charm while remaining practical for everyday use. Pair this with wrought iron accents—such as in light fixtures or cabinet hardware—and you’ve got a perfect Mediterranean-inspired kitchen that feels both timeless and functional.

Mediterranean Revival in Bathroom Renovations:

The bathroom is another area where Mediterranean Revival style shines. In the bathroom, the goal is to create a space that feels relaxing, sophisticated, and connected to nature. Here’s how Mediterranean elements come to life in bathroom renovations:

• Colorful Tiles and Mosaic Patterns: Just like in kitchens, the use of hand-painted tiles is a key feature in Mediterranean bathrooms. Mosaic tiles in all shades of blues, rich reds, and vibrant greens can create a stunning backdrop in the shower or around the vanity. These tiles often feature intricate patterns that mimic the coastal landscapes of the Mediterranean, adding both color and texture to the room.

• Freestanding Bathtubs and Elegant Fixtures: A freestanding clawfoot tub is often a central feature in a Mediterranean-style bathroom. The elegant curves of the tub, paired with vintage-style faucets and decorative mirrors, create a luxurious, old-world feel that’s perfect for relaxing. These fixtures evoke the beauty of Mediterranean villas, where bathtime becomes an indulgent escape.

• Natural Light and Soft, Earthy Tones: Mediterranean bathrooms often maximize natural light, with large windows or skylights letting sunlight pour into the space. The color palette is typically soft and neutral, with shades of terracotta, sand, and soft whites, allowing the room to feel bright and serene.

Spanish Revival: Rustic Elegance Meets Colonial Charm

The Spanish Revival style is inspired by the Spanish colonial architecture found in California and other parts of the southwestern United States. It combines old-world charm with rustic elegance, blending Spanish, Moorish, and Mediterranean influences. Spanish Revival design often incorporates bold, earthy colors, handcrafted materials, and a sense of warmth that immediately makes a space feel welcoming.

Spanish Revival in Kitchen Renovations:

Spanish Revival kitchens are rich in texture and detail, offering a sense of history while also embracing the practicality of modern living. Here’s how Spanish Revival elements come together in kitchen renovations:

• Saltillo Tiles and Terrazzo Flooring: One of the most iconic elements of a Spanish Revival kitchen is the use of Saltillo tiles. These handmade terracotta tiles are often used for flooring or as a backsplash in the kitchen. Their warm, earthy tones add a rustic yet sophisticated charm to the space.

• Iron and Wood Accents: Spanish Revival kitchens often feature wrought iron elements, from light fixtures to cabinet hardware. These pieces bring a touch of Mediterranean elegance and contrast beautifully with the warmth of wooden cabinets or beams. I love the rustic appeal of exposed wooden beams on the ceiling, which give the space an authentic Spanish feel and create a sense of openness and airiness.

• Bold Color Palettes and Decorative Details: Spanish Revival kitchens embrace vibrant colors, often drawing inspiration from the sun-drenched landscapes of Spain. In the kitchen, you might see deep oranges, bright reds, and turquoise used in accents like ceramic pottery or tilework. Hand-painted tiles with intricate geometric patterns can be used as a backsplash or to frame the stove, adding a pop of color and artistry.

Spanish Revival in Bathroom Renovations:

Spanish Revival bathrooms are all about creating a sense of old-world charm while providing modern comfort. This style often features natural materials, bold patterns, and a sense of elegance that feels at once rustic and refined.

• Mosaic Tiles and Colorful Accents: Like Mediterranean bathrooms, Spanish Revival bathrooms often incorporate mosaic tiles, but with a bolder, more dramatic flair. I love the idea of using colorful or patterned tiles in the shower or around the bathtub to add vibrancy and texture. Spanish Revival bathrooms often feature a mix of bold hues like deep reds, turquoise, and golden yellows, creating a warm and inviting space.

• Handcrafted Sinks and Fixtures: The use of handcrafted pottery for sinks or accessories is another key element in Spanish Revival bathrooms. These clay or ceramic sinks, often in earthy tones, bring a rustic, artisanal touch to the space. Pair these with wrought iron light fixtures or towel racks, and you’ve got a bathroom that feels both rustic and refined.

• Wood and Tile Accents: Spanish Revival bathrooms often feature wooden vanities or cabinetry, paired with decorative tiles on the floor or as accents on the walls. These materials bring warmth and richness to the space, while decorative mirrors and vintage-style faucets help to elevate the design and create a sense of timeless elegance.

Mediterranean Revival vs. Spanish Revival: Which One Fits Your Style?

While Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Revival share some similarities—such as their reliance on natural materials and earthy color palettes—they each have their own distinct flavor. Mediterranean Revival tends to embrace lighter tones, airy spaces, and intricate, colorful tilework that evokes a more coastal, European feel. Spanish Revival, on the other hand, leans more toward bold, rustic colors, artisan craftsmanship, and a deeper connection to colonial Spanish influences.

Both styles are ideal for creating timeless kitchen and bathroom renovations that reflect warmth, heritage, and authenticity. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-soaked elegance of the Mediterranean or the earthy richness of Spanish Revival, both offer the opportunity to craft a home that feels connected to the past while embracing modern sensibilities.

The Influences of Art, History, and Culture in the Interior Design Industry

Interior design is far more than just creating aesthetically pleasing spaces. It is a reflection of society, a tangible expression of history, and a canvas for cultural movements that have shaped the way we live, work, and interact with our environments. From the classical elegance of ancient civilizations to the bold experimentation of contemporary design, art, history, and culture have all played critical roles in shaping the evolution of interior design.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the profound impact these three forces—art, history, and culture—have had on interior design. Understanding these influences can help both design professionals and homeowners appreciate the deeper meanings behind design choices and inspire innovative approaches to creating spaces that are not only beautiful but meaningful.

1. Art: The Heartbeat of Interior Design

Art is often the starting point for interior design, serving as both inspiration and a powerful way to express personal and collective values. Whether through the work of famous artists or the development of artistic movements, art has had a profound influence on the styles, color palettes, and materials chosen for interiors.

How Art Influences Interior Design:

• Color Theory: Art movements like Impressionism or Expressionism have shaped how colors are used in interiors. For example, the soft pastel hues of Impressionist art translated into Shabby Chic and French Country styles, while the bold, vibrant tones of Abstract Expressionism led to the use of more dynamic, saturated colors in contemporary spaces.

• Materials and Textures: Art also influences the types of materials used. For example, the Art Deco movement—born out of the early 20th century—brought geometric patterns, lacquered woods, and metals like gold and chrome into interior design, adding a sense of glamour and sophistication.

• Iconography and Motifs: Often, furniture and décor items will incorporate motifs or themes from famous artworks. For example, Renaissance art has inspired the use of rich velvet furnishings, gilded frames and classic frescoed ceilings in luxury interiors, creating spaces that feel both opulent and timeless.

Example:

In the design of a modern living room, a Picasso inspired abstract painting may become the focal point, inspiring a color palette of bold reds, blues, and yellows. The furniture might then feature sleek, angular shapes reflective of Cubism, with mixed media materials like glass and metal.

2. History: From Classical to Contemporary

History plays an essential role in the way interior design has evolved. Each period in history brought its own set of design principles, materials, and technologies that have left their mark on the built environment. Interior designers often draw upon these historical styles, adapting them to suit modern needs while preserving the essence of past cultures.

Key Historical Influences:

• Ancient Civilizations: The grandeur of Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome still influences interior design today. For example, the use of columned structures and symmetry in interior layouts reflects the classical influence. The Romanesque and Baroque periods, known for their opulence, still inspire designers to create richly adorned spaces using luxurious materials such as marble, wood paneling and gold leaf.

• Victorian Era: The Victorian era brought about a fascination with ornate, heavily decorated interiors, characterized by rich patterns, dark wood furniture and heavy textiles. The legacy of this era can still be seen in traditional interiors where intricate detailing and complex color schemes are key.

• Mid-Century Modern: Post-World War II, the Mid-Century Modern movement emerged, emphasizing clean lines, functional forms and a minimalist approach. It focused on the use of innovative materials like plastic, fiberglass and plywood, creating spaces that were more open, efficient, and accessible.

Example:

In a modern kitchen, elements of Mid-Century Modern design might include streamlined cabinetry, open shelving and natural wood finishes, paired with retro-inspired appliances in muted pastels, reminiscent of the 1950s.

3. Culture: Global Inspiration and Local Traditions

Cultural influences have long been a driving force in interior design, shaping everything from the choice of furnishings to the way space is used. As global connectivity increases, the fusion of global cultures has led to the rise of eclectic designs that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.

How Culture Influences Interior Design:

• Traditional Craftsmanship: Local cultures have contributed distinct elements to design. In Japanese interiors, the principle of Zen is reflected in the minimalist use of space, natural materials like bamboo and tatami mats, and an emphasis on balance and tranquility. Similarly, Moroccan interiors are known for their colorful tilework, intricate carpet patterns, and layered textiles, creating vibrant and dynamic spaces.

• Global Fusion: In recent years, many designers have embraced a fusion of cultural elements from across the globe. The incorporation of Indian textiles, African art and Scandinavian furniture can create an eclectic mix that is both stylish and reflective of a global perspective.

• Ethnic and Regional Styles: Each region of the world has its own unique design traditions. French Provincial design draws heavily from the countryside of southern France with rustic wood furniture, pastel hues and flower motifs, while Mediterranean-style interiors reflect a sun-drenched aesthetic with terracotta tiles, wrought iron accents, and soft, natural textures.

Example:

A living room might feature a Scandinavian-style sofa, with clean lines and light wood legs, accented with Moroccan poufs and a Japanese shoji screen. The room might also have African tribal prints on cushions and Indian-inspired rugs, creating a fusion of cultures that feels both curated and personal.

4. The Intersection of Art, History, and Culture in Contemporary Design

In today’s world, the influence of art, history, and culture in interior design is often intertwined. Designers frequently draw on a combination of artistic movements, historical periods, and global cultural traditions to create spaces that are both modern and timeless. This blending of influences allows for the creation of interiors that feel dynamic and fresh while maintaining a deep sense of connection to the past.

How Designers Blend These Elements:

• Historical Reinterpretation: Designers often reinterpret past styles by mixing elements of Victorian, Art Deco, and Mid-Century Modern into a contemporary framework. For example, a room may feature Art Deco-style lighting alongside minimalist furniture, creating a stylish yet comfortable environment.

• Global Narratives: Today’s design aesthetic celebrates global interconnectedness. A designer might incorporate Native American patterns in textiles, Asian-inspired woodwork, or African art pieces, blending cultural symbols to tell a unique story within the space.

• Personal Expression: As the lines between art and interior design continue to blur, many designers view their work as artistic expression. Clients are increasingly encouraged to select pieces that reflect their own personal history, heritage, and aesthetic values, creating truly bespoke interiors that are both meaningful and beautiful.

As the world becomes more interconnected, the blending of these influences in interior design has led to spaces that are more diverse, dynamic, and reflective of a global narrative. For interior designers and homeowners alike, embracing these influences creates opportunities to craft spaces that are not just beautiful but rich in meaning, offering a story and soul that transcend trends and time.

Understanding Kitchen and Bath Design Fees in Southern California

When you're planning a kitchen or bath renovation in Southern California, one of the first professionals you’ll likely hire is a kitchen and bath designer. Their expertise can help turn your vision into a functional, aesthetically pleasing reality. However, understanding the fees associated with hiring a designer is crucial to ensuring that your project stays within budget and that you're getting the value you expect.

In this blog post, we'll break down the typical fees charged by kitchen and bath designers in Southern California, including initial consultation fees, design fees, and ongoing fees related to coordinating and overseeing the renovation.

1. Initial Consultation Fees

Many kitchen and bath designers begin with an initial consultation to assess your needs, goals, and the scope of your project. This consultation can help both you and the designer determine if you are a good fit for each other and whether you want to proceed with the full design process.

• Range of Fees: Typically, initial consultations in Southern California can range from $200 to $500 depending on the designer’s experience, location, and project complexity.

• What’s Included: During the consultation, designers typically discuss your style preferences, budget, and timeline, and may take measurements of your existing space. You may also receive a rough idea of design possibilities, but formal design plans typically come after the consultation. Typically this consultation fee gets applied into the design fee if you decide to move forward with that designer.

2. Design Fees

Once you've decided to move forward with a designer, the next step is often the creation of a design proposal, including layouts, color schemes, materials, and detailed specifications for cabinetry, fixtures, lighting, and more. Design fees are typically structured in a few different ways:

Hourly Fees

• Range of Fees: For hourly work, Southern California designers usually charge between $100 to $300 per hour. The total number of hours will depend on the complexity of the project and the designer's rate. Larger or more detailed projects may take 20 to 40 hours or more, while simpler renovations may require fewer hours.

Flat Fees

• Range of Fees: Alternatively, some designers may offer flat fees for the entire design phase. Flat fees can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the project's size and the designer’s experience. For high-end projects with custom elements or intricate details, the flat fee can go even higher.

• What’s Included: A flat design fee generally includes detailed design drawings, material selections, renderings, and consultations with vendors to get quotes/estimates. In some cases, this may also cover creating detailed plans for contractors, which can help avoid misunderstandings during construction.

3. Project Coordination Fees

In many cases, a kitchen and bath designer in Southern California may offer additional services to help coordinate or oversee the renovation process, ensuring that contractors are on track and that the design vision is executed as planned. These project management or coordination services often come with additional fees.

• Flat Rate or Percentage: If a designer offers project coordination services, the fee can either be a flat rate or a percentage of the overall project cost. For example, a designer might charge an additional 5% to 10% of the total renovation cost for overseeing construction for the percentage option. On the other hand, flat fees can range from $6,000 to $15,000, depending on the project's size and the designer’s experience. For high-end projects with custom elements or intricate details, the flat fee can go even higher. To put this in perspective, a wedding coordinator—who is responsible for managing a single day’s event—might charge around $8,000. However, kitchen and bath renovations span several weeks and require ongoing, hands-on involvement on-site, so the value you receive from a designer's project coordination services is often more extensive, ensuring that every detail of your renovation is executed smoothly and according to plan.

• What’s Included: Project coordination services might include coordinating schedules, communicating with contractors and vendors for pricing/estimates, ensuring that design specifications are met, and making any necessary adjustments to the design during the construction phase. Always there to help with any questions and decision making as well. This is particularly useful if you’re not planning to be hands-on with the renovation.

5. Why Choose a Designer?

While it might seem like a significant investment, working with a professional kitchen and bath designer can save you money in the long run by helping you avoid costly mistakes, manage your budget effectively, and make selections that will increase the overall value of your home. A skilled designer has access to high-quality products/vendors, can help maximize space efficiency, and can create a design that truly reflects your style.

Before you hire a designer, it’s a good idea to get quotes from several professionals, review their portfolios, and discuss your goals and budget to ensure a clear agreement on pricing and services. With the right designer by your side, your dream kitchen or bath is within reach!

Ashley Hamersky

What Clients Should Know Before Starting a Kitchen or Bath Renovation

Renovating a kitchen or bathroom can be one of the most rewarding home improvement projects, but it’s also one of the most complex. Whether you're updating your space to improve functionality, enhance aesthetics, or boost your home's value, there are several key considerations to keep in mind before diving in. With careful planning, you can ensure a smoother, more successful renovation that will leave you loving your new space for years to come.

If you're thinking about embarking on a kitchen or bath renovation, here are the essential things every client should know before getting started.

1. Know Your Goals and Priorities

Before you even begin choosing tiles or countertops, it’s important to understand why you want to renovate. Are you looking to increase the functionality of your kitchen for cooking and entertaining? Do you want to create a spa-like retreat in your bathroom? Or is your goal to modernize outdated fixtures and finishes?

Understanding your goals will help guide the design process, ensuring the renovation is tailored to your needs and lifestyle. Consider making a list of must-haves (like more storage, a larger shower, or better lighting) as well as nice-to-haves (like high-end finishes or fancy appliances). Knowing where you can compromise and where you can't will make decision-making easier.

2. Establish a Realistic Budget

Setting a budget is one of the most critical steps in any renovation project, and it’s especially important for kitchen and bath renovations, which can quickly become expensive. Costs can vary widely based on the size of the space, the scope of work, the quality of materials, and the complexity of the design.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when budgeting:

• Labor Costs: Renovations require skilled professionals, including designers, contractors, electricians, plumbers, and sometimes specialty trades like tile setters. Labor costs can account for a significant portion of your budget.

• Materials: Cabinets, countertops, flooring, tiles, fixtures, and appliances can vary greatly in price. You’ll need to decide where to splurge (for example, on a durable, high-quality countertop) and where to save (perhaps with budget-friendly fixtures and tile).

• Unexpected Costs: It’s always wise to add a buffer—generally 10-20% of your total budget—to account for unexpected costs. When tearing down walls or replacing old plumbing and electrical systems, you may encounter issues that weren’t apparent during the initial planning stages.

A clear, well-thought-out budget will help you avoid sticker shock and prevent overspending.

3. Choose the Right Professionals

While DIY projects may seem tempting, especially in a small space like a bathroom or kitchen, hiring experienced professionals is key to a successful renovation. Whether you’re hiring a general contractor, a kitchen and bath designer, or a specialized plumber and electrician, make sure you vet each professional thoroughly.

• Designers: A good designer can help you create a functional layout, select the right materials, and suggest clever design solutions to optimize your space. They can also assist with visualizing the design and managing the renovation process.

• Contractors: Look for a licensed, insured, and reputable general contractor who has experience with kitchen or bathroom renovations. Ask for references and view their portfolio of past work.

• Subcontractors: You may need specialized workers like electricians, plumbers, and tile installers. These professionals should also be licensed, insured, and experienced in their specific trade.

A team approach is often best for kitchen and bath renovations to ensure that each element—from plumbing and electrical work to cabinet installation and flooring—is done right.

4. Consider the Layout and Flow

One of the most important aspects of a kitchen or bath renovation is the layout. It’s essential to create a flow that suits how you use the space. For example, in a kitchen, you’ll want to maintain the work triangle—the layout between the stove, sink, and refrigerator—for maximum efficiency.

In a bathroom, consider how you use the space for both relaxation and functionality. Will your bathroom include double sinks for two users? Do you need space for a bathtub or a walk-in shower? Think about traffic flow and make sure the layout allows for easy access to all key areas without feeling cramped or congested.

• Open shelving: In a kitchen, open shelving is a popular trend, but it’s not always the most practical for storage and organization. You’ll need to weigh the aesthetic benefits versus the potential mess it can create.

• Small space solutions: For a small kitchen or bathroom, clever space-saving solutions like built-in storage, vertical shelving, and corner sinks can maximize the utility of your space.

5. Understand the Timeline

The timeline for a kitchen or bathroom renovation can vary significantly depending on the scope of the project, the availability of materials, and contractor schedules. On average, a kitchen renovation can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, while a bathroom renovation might take 4 to 8 weeks. However, these timelines can be extended if there are delays with materials or unexpected issues arise.

It’s important to have realistic expectations about the time it will take to complete your renovation, and to understand that the timeline can shift for various reasons. Discuss the expected schedule with your contractor, and make sure they’re clear about your desired completion date.

6. Embrace the Importance of Lighting

Lighting is often an overlooked but crucial element of kitchen and bathroom design. Good lighting can make a small space feel larger, enhance the functionality of the room, and set the mood for different tasks.

Consider these lighting tips:

• Task Lighting: In the kitchen, under-cabinet lighting is essential for meal prep, while in the bathroom, bright lighting around the mirror will ensure good visibility for grooming tasks.

• Ambient Lighting: Soft, general lighting can create a welcoming atmosphere in both kitchens and bathrooms.

• Accent Lighting: Decorative lighting, like pendant lights or sconces, can add personality and style to your space.

Make sure to include lighting options that can accommodate different moods and functions, and opt for energy-efficient LED fixtures where possible to reduce long-term costs.

7. Focus on Durability and Functionality

While aesthetics are important, the primary goal of any kitchen or bath renovation should be functionality. After all, these are high-traffic areas that must withstand daily wear and tear. Make sure to choose durable materials that can stand up to heavy use and are easy to maintain.

• Countertops: Choose durable surfaces that are resistant to stains, scratches, and heat.

• Cabinets: Look for high-quality cabinets that offer both storage and style. Soft-close hinges, built-in dividers, and pull-out shelves can add convenience to your kitchen or bath.

• Flooring: In a bathroom, non-slip, moisture-resistant tiles like porcelain or ceramic are ideal. In the kitchen, opt for durable options like hardwood or tile for a stylish yet long-lasting floor.

8. Don’t Skimp on Storage

Whether it’s extra cabinet space in the kitchen or smart built-in storage in the bathroom, storage is often one of the biggest challenges in both of these spaces. Consider creative storage solutions like pull-out pantries, deep drawers, and organizational inserts. In a bathroom, consider incorporating storage in places like above the toilet or inside the shower. A well-organized space makes a huge difference in both function and appearance.

Final Thoughts

A kitchen or bathroom renovation can be an exciting and transformative project, but it requires careful planning, budgeting, and an understanding of the complexities involved. By knowing what to expect and working with the right professionals, you can ensure that your renovation meets both your functional needs and design dreams.

The more you prepare, the more enjoyable the process will be—and in the end, you’ll have a space that not only looks stunning but works beautifully for your lifestyle. So take a deep breath, get organized, and get ready to turn your vision into reality!