Project Timelines: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Embarking on a renovation journey is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming when you start thinking about timelines and schedules. How long will it take? When should you reach out to an interior designer? And what should you do to prepare? Don’t worry—we’re breaking it all down for you in this guide. Whether you’re dreaming of a small kitchen refresh or a full-scale home renovation, here’s what you can expect at every stage.
Small Projects: Kitchen and Bathroom Refreshes
If you’re planning a smaller project—think updating your cabinet doors, swapping out light fixtures, or re-tiling your backsplash—you’re looking at a timeline of about 6 to 8 weeks from start to finish. Here’s a rough breakdown:
Planning & Design: 2-3 weeks
This is the time to make your decisions, from materials to layout tweaks. A good chunk of this involves waiting for materials to be ordered and delivered.
Execution: 4-5 weeks
Once your contractor starts, these smaller-scale projects can typically be completed in about a month, depending on complexity.
Pro Tip: Reach out to a designer at least 2 months before you want the project completed. This gives you time to plan, source materials, and ensure everything is ready to go when your contractor starts.
Medium Projects: Renovating a Kitchen or Bathroom
For a full-scale kitchen or bathroom renovation—gutting the space and starting fresh—the timeline increases to about 3 to 6 months. Here’s what this typically involves:
Planning & Design: 4-8 weeks
You’ll work with your designer to finalize layouts, select materials, and nail down the details.
Permitting: 2-4 weeks (varies by location)
If structural changes or plumbing/electrical work are involved, your contractor will need permits before starting.
Execution: 8-16 weeks
Demo, construction, and finishing touches—this is where the magic happens. Be prepared for a few bumps in the road (because there’s always a surprise or two in renovations!), but a good contractor will keep things moving.
Helpful Hint: Start planning at least 6 months before you want your space completed. This ensures there’s enough time to finalize designs and accommodate any permitting delays.
Large Projects: Whole-Home Renovations or Additions
For larger-scale projects, such as renovating multiple rooms or adding an extension to your home, the timeline stretches to 6 to 12 months (or longer for custom builds). Here’s what to expect:
Planning & Design: 2-4 months
This includes everything from architectural plans to selecting materials and creating a detailed project scope.
Permitting: 2-3 months (varies by scope and location)
Permitting for large projects can take longer, especially if you’re working with local zoning boards.
Execution: 4-8 months
Construction on large projects is a marathon, not a sprint. Staying flexible and communicative with your team is key.
Designer Tip: For large renovations, reach out to your interior designer at least 9 to 12 months before your desired completion date. This gives ample time for planning and ensures you’re not rushed through the decision-making process.
Furnishing & Styling Timelines
Renovations are just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re planning to furnish and style your space afterward, here’s what you need to know:
Custom Furnishings: 12-16 weeks (or more)
Custom sofas, dining tables, and other bespoke pieces often take several months to produce. Ordering these early is critical.
Designer-Led Styling: 4-6 weeks
If you’re working with a designer to finish your space, styling typically takes a month or so after renovations are complete.
Best Advice: Start conversations with your designer about furnishings at the same time you begin planning your renovation. This ensures all the elements work seamlessly together.
How to Prepare for Your Renovation Timeline
Renovations are exciting, but they’re also a lot of work! Here are some tips to make the process smoother:
Be Flexible: Timelines can shift due to material delays or unexpected surprises during construction. Building in a little wiggle room helps keep things stress-free.
Communicate Regularly: Stay in touch with your contractor and designer to ensure everyone’s on the same page.
Have a Contingency Budget: Set aside 10-15% of your budget for unexpected costs (because they’re bound to happen).
Celebrate the Milestones: Renovations can feel long, but celebrating small wins—like demo day or the first coat of paint—makes the process more fun.
Ready to Start Your Renovation?
At Cori Ashlyn Design, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from timelines to tiles. Our seamless process and trusted network of contractors make renovations stress-free and enjoyable. Whether you’re tackling a small refresh or a full-scale transformation, we’ll help you bring your dream space to life.
Let’s chat! Schedule a Discovery Call today, and let’s start planning your renovation timeline together.
