10 Things Designers Wish You Knew Before You Redecorate Your Home

Making the decision to redecorate is an exciting one, but between budgeting, picking paints, and finding furniture and decor, it can also be super overwhelming.

If you’re ready for a major refresh but don’t know where to begin, the experts are here to help. They’re spilling the top 10 pieces of advice and design tips for redecorating that they wish everyone knew before getting started.

Evaluate the Existing Space

Redecorating doesn’t mean you’re starting from scratch. According to interior designer Lauren Saab, the most successful spaces embrace what’s already present—both in terms of furniture and decor pieces, and the surrounding structure.

“If you force a vision without paying attention to light, scale, architecture, or flow, you’ll miss what the room is already trying to become,” Saab says. “Observe before you shop, and assess what’s worth keeping. Consider which pieces have good lines, solid materials, or sentimental value—and which ones are just filling space.”

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Budget for Your Priorities

Setting a budget will play a big part in the way you redecorate, but deciding exactly which items to allocate what portion of said budget—whether for style or comfort—is equally as important.

“Before spending anything, define what matters most. Maybe the rug can wait, but the custom upholstery can’t,” Saab says. “A thoughtful budget reflects priorities, not just limits.”

Start With a Blank Canvas

Another key step before redecorating is to set aside time for a major reset. Even if you’re not fully switching out the furniture and decor, starting with a clear space (and a clear mind) will make all the difference.

“The best thing you can do for your space is declutter,” interior designer Gala Margiña says. “Not only will this create a sense of calm and order, but it will make space in your life for new things and opportunities to come into it.”

Make Sure to Measure

As you start to select larger pieces of furniture like sofas, dining tables, and bed frames, check the product dimensions to make sure your picks will actually fit. Knowing the measurements of your furniture pieces and rooms will also help determine the best sizes for rugs and other decor.

“Furniture that’s even slightly too big or small can throw everything off,” designer Nina Lichtenstein says. “The goal is not to fill a room, but to balance it.”

Design for Your Routine

Having sources of inspiration is important, but tailoring your favorite ideas to feel realistic for your individual space and lifestyle is even more crucial.

“Before sourcing anything, walk the space and imagine a day genuinely lived there,” Saab suggests. “Feel the light. Trace your routines. Sit where you’ll sit. What will you reach for? A room that doesn’t support how you move through the day will never feel whole.”

Pick a Palette With a Purpose

Selecting a color palette for your walls and decor is one of the most exciting parts of the redecorating process. As you browse, consider what each room will be used for, and whether you want to be calmed by neutrals, inspired by bright colors, or welcomed by warm tones.

“Before choosing anything aesthetic, get crystal-clear on the feeling you want the space to give you,” Lichtenstein says.

Don’t Underestimate Lighting

Elements like wall paint, furniture, and soft furnishings are the first things that come to mind when redecorating, but even the prettiest picks will struggle to shine without the right lighting setup—so, make sure to add lamps and chandeliers to your shopping list.

“Use a mix of sources, such as overhead, task, and ambient lighting, to make the space adaptable,” Lichtenstein advises. “Always opt for warm, dimmable bulbs when you can. It’s like adding a beauty filter to your entire room.”

Mix Materials and Textures

There are endless pieces of decor available and so many interior design styles to choose from; if you’ve fallen with more than one, don’t worry. Mixing styles, old and new elements, and materials and textures can actually be the secret to an extra-cozy, curated space.

“Great design lives in contrast,” Lichtenstein explains. “Combine soft with structured, matte with shine, raw with refined. Pair a vintage wooden bench with a sleek modern light, or a plush rug with sculptural metal legs. Layering different textures and finishes adds character and interest.”

Take Your Time

Redecorating takes a lot of energy and budget, so building out your ideal space slowly is completely okay to do; Lichtenstein actually believes taking your time can yield the best results.

“The pressure to have an ‘after’ moment right away can backfire, so let the space evolve with you,” she says. “A space that grows slowly often becomes more personal, more intuitive, and more timeless.”

Embrace Your Personal Style

Though there are plenty of decor trends out there to consider, our designers say the most important rule when redecorating is to create a space that brings you joy.

“Design is deeply personal,” Margiña says. “It’s easy to yearn for and want to lean into the latest luxury, high-end trend, but leaning into what you love is key. Well-designed interiors are a perfect reflection of the person living in them, so choose a few pieces that spark joy and hold deep meaning.”