10 Things Designers Want You to Know Before Your Next Remodel

Materials such as tile, plumbing fixtures, appliances, flooring, cabinets and cabinet hardware can take 6 to 12 weeks to receive, says Anna-Marie Claassen with Anthology Interiors. "Generally, these are the items that can put a remodel to a grinding halt: For example, if the plumber doesn’t have some of the items, the contractor or builder might not have him come in for the job until everything is available." She advises that the most efficient way to remodel is to plan the design beforehand, order all of the materials, store them, if possible, and then begin the demolition process.

"In this home, we loved the original fireplace dating back to the early 1900s. We added new built-ins and lightened up all of the woodwork in the room as originally it was a dark stained oak paneling," says designer Brooke Wagner.

You must develop a wish list of "must haves." These include specific colors or finishes, easy maintenance, type of storage, seating arrangements, certain type of appliances or precious furniture and art you own that you would like to integrate with the new design, says designer Tatiana Machado-Rosas with Jackson Design and Remodeling. This contemporary eat-in kitchen has an island with room for four and a built-in bookshelf that holds accessories and cookbooks.

Tatiana Machado-Rosas of Jackson Design and Remodeling, agrees that homeowners should select and order as many materials, such as shower tile, flooring and plumbing, as possible before starting construction to avoid delays and extra costs. Along with that step, mentally prepare if you plan to live in the home during the process. "Keep in mind that remodeling can sometimes be stressful, due to the noise and dust generated and work crews in your home performing different tasks while construction is happening," she says.