By Navin Sidhu, Partner
Renovating a home is an exciting venture, but it’s essential to approach any major project with the right mindset, knowledge, and most importantly, the right team.
In this blog, we decided to focus on the ‘Do’s’ of a good home renovation (we prefer to take the approach of ‘Glass Half Full. Besides, the inverse of the Do’s will automatically give you the ‘Don’t’s! Can you tell at Alair that we value efficiency?!).
Read on for some critical insights based on decades of experience to set your home renovation project up for success!
Do: Plan Thoroughly
Why It Matters: A well-thought-out plan is the foundation of any successful renovation. It ensures that every aspect of the project is considered, from the design and materials to the timeline and budget.
How to Do It:
- Consult Professionals: Engage architects, designers, and builders early in the process. Ask lots of questions, including the hard ones! Don’t be afraid to seek clarity when needed.
- Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve with your renovation.
- Create a Realistic Budget: Include a contingency for unexpected expenses.
- Develop a Timeline: Work with your builder to establish a realistic schedule.
Do: Focus on Quality
Why It Matters: High-quality materials and craftsmanship are essential for durability and aesthetics. Cutting corners leads to costly repairs and long-term dissatisfaction. A reputable interior designer can help provide valuable feedback on various product materials.

Avoid Pitfalls:
- Invest in Quality Materials: Choose materials that stand the test of time.
- Hire Experienced Professionals: Ensure the contractors and craftsmen are reputable and skilled. Ask for references!
- Prioritize Structural Integrity: Never compromise on the structural elements of your home.
Do: Focus on Functionality
Why It Matters: We know that aesthetics are top of mind for any renovation, and while important, the functionality of your space should be a top priority. A beautiful home that doesn’t meet your needs will ultimately be frustrating.
How to Achieve It:
- Think About Flow: Ensure that the layout of your renovated space makes sense for your lifestyle.
- Maximize Storage: Incorporate smart storage solutions to keep your home organized – especially in kitchens, mudrooms, and bathrooms!
- Consider Future Needs: Plan for future changes in your lifestyle or family dynamics.
Do: Hire The Right Team
Why It Matters: Clear, consistent communication and an expert team are critical to a project’s success. Renovations have many moving parts, so having the right team, including a reputable builder to manage the process, ensures that your vision is realized to its fullest potential.
Best Practices:
- Schedule and Budget Updates: Ensure there is a plan in place for this in the builders process- how they communicate it and frequency are important metrics
- Be Clear and Specific: Clearly articulate your expectations and preferences and actively make decisions throughout the renovation process.
- Assess who the right stakeholders are: A good, qualified interior designer is an asset to a renovation. They work in tandem with the builder to ensure the project’s design and specifications are within budget while maintaining the vision.
By following these “do’s,” you’ll be well on your way to a successful home renovation that meets and exceeds your expectations. Remember, the key to a smooth renovation is thorough planning, a focus on quality and functional design, and, most importantly, the right team to help execute it all! Happy renovating!

Build by Alair Calgary
Photography by Eymeric Widling