Renovating your home can be exciting, but some choices end up causing more frustration than joy. From impractical layouts to trendy finishes that quickly feel dated, certain upgrades tend to spark regret down the line. We asked design experts to weigh in on the most common missteps homeowners make—and what to consider instead. Before you knock down walls or rip out flooring, here are 9 renovation decisions you might want to rethink.

1. Overly Open Floor Plans That Sacrifice Functionality

While open floor plans may seem modern and spacious, they can lead to a lack of privacy and reduced functionality. Without clear divisions, spaces often feel cluttered or chaotic. What’s intended to be an airy, social layout can end up compromising everyday living. A balance between openness and practicality is key, ensuring rooms flow seamlessly without losing their purpose or intimacy.

2. Trendy Finishes That Age Too Quickly

Choosing the latest trends in finishes, like bold colors or extravagant materials, can lead to regret as styles evolve. Trendy options often look dated sooner than expected, leaving you with the task of renovating much sooner than planned. Opting for timeless designs and neutral tones ensures longevity, while offering versatility to adapt with future trends without major overhauls.

3. Skipping Adequate Lighting Planning

Neglecting a solid lighting plan can make even the most beautiful spaces feel uninviting. Poorly placed lighting can lead to harsh shadows, dim areas, or insufficient light in key spaces. Good lighting is essential not just for ambiance but for function. Layering different types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—ensures that your space is both practical and atmospheric, enhancing every room’s design and usability.

4. Installing High-Maintenance Materials

Opting for high-maintenance materials, like certain wood finishes, marble, or intricate tiles, can lead to frustration over time. While these materials look stunning initially, they often require constant care and upkeep to maintain their beauty. Consider materials that balance durability and style, ensuring your space stays elegant with less ongoing effort, and focus on practicality for long-term satisfaction.

5. Over-Customizing Built-Ins or Cabinetry

While custom cabinetry can enhance a home’s design, over-customization may limit future flexibility. Excessive personalization may create storage solutions that no longer meet evolving needs. Furthermore, these intricate designs can also be expensive and time-consuming to install or modify. Opt for customizations that add value and organization without sacrificing long-term practicality and adaptability.

6. Choosing Style Over Storage in Kitchens

Focusing too much on aesthetics rather than storage can result in a kitchen that looks beautiful but lacks practical functionality. While an open shelf or trendy backsplash may enhance the visual appeal, it could lead to clutter and a lack of proper organization. A kitchen that balances style with ample, well-designed storage ensures not only a stunning space but one that supports daily cooking and entertaining needs efficiently.

7. Choosing Bold Colors for Small Spaces

Opting for bold colors in small spaces can create a dramatic look, but it can also make a room feel cramped or closed off. Dark or saturated colors can visually shrink the room, overpowering its proportions. Instead, consider soft, muted tones or light hues that can help open up the space. If bold colors are a must, balance them with light-colored furniture or accents to keep the room feeling airy and spacious.

8. Not Thinking Long-Term with Flooring Choices

Choosing flooring based solely on current trends or appearance can be a costly mistake in the long run. Certain materials, like trendy tiles or delicate hardwoods, may wear out faster than anticipated, leading to frequent repairs or replacements. Selecting durable, timeless flooring options that can withstand wear and remain functional over time helps to protect your investment and ensures your home remains stylish for years.

9. Installing Too Many Statement Walls

While statement walls can add personality to a room, overdoing them can overwhelm the space. When multiple walls are painted in bold or contrasting colors, it can create a disjointed effect rather than a cohesive atmosphere. Instead of using multiple statement walls, focus on one feature wall that anchors the room. This creates balance and ensures the bold design element stands out without making the space feel chaotic.

This article was created with the assistance of AI but thoroughly edited by a human being.