Going with a gut feeling about what items cost vs. knowing the reality of what they cost are very different ways to approach updating your spaces. I've often heard people say that they had no idea what their project was going to cost when they started it on their own and were shocked to find out that they were way off base in estimating their expenses. There can be a point where you see yourself getting to the finish line but then run out of money for essential elements, or maybe even worse, find yourself purchasing items that lack the quality that you hoped for. By planning ahead and understanding the price ranges of furnishing your spaces, you'll be much happier with the end results. Budgeting realistically doesn't necessarily mean that you will get EVERYTHING you want, but it will make your purchases more purposeful, and you'll be focused on the items that matter most to you.
And never underestimate the power of wall art/decor and accessories. Throwing furniture into a room is great, but the accessories can help make your spaces warm and inviting, taking them from 'ho-hum' to 'wow'. Budget for those too!
On another note, if you choose to work with a designer like me, your designer will want to know your budget upfront so he/she can look at your project holistically and strategically to create a design plan.
I created a worksheet that can help you determine your budget, based on a range in quality from 'good' to 'best'. This worksheet is free for Clients with an existing signed business agreement, and $10 for non-Clients. Email me for purchase at stacymoher@livinginteriorsct.com.
Investing in planning will save you in the long run - from headaches, delays in your project timelines, and, yes, money! You'll have a better sense of what you need to spend to achieve your goals. You can determine where you want to save, and where you want to splurge. And keep in mind...you can buy that desk for $100 but you'll likely need to replace it with a better quality one at a higher price point later, meaning you wasted your hard-earned money on that desk that wobbles!
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