It’s a common misconception that renovation is just about labor—tearing down walls, installing cabinets, or staining floors. But the fact is, most of what we do as home renovators involves thinking deeply about design and selecting materials that match a space’s style and function. So, what is the difference between home renovation and design?
As experienced contractors, we’ve found that a lot of people don’t understand the difference between home renovation and design. Here’s a simple equation: Home renovation is design plus build services.
Whatever project we’re working on, whether it’s a new kitchen, living room, or outdoor living space, we put together a plan that’s focused on comfort, beauty, and utility. Tell us what you want, and we’ll make it work with the materials and fit the square footage and budget.
Interior design is about improving spaces.
I want to be clear. Home renovation and interior design are not exactly the same. An interior designer will bring the furnishings to a space—items like lamps, rugs, and chairs. This work absolutely adds value to your home in the form of comfort and style.
An interior designer can help with colors, as well. So can we. If you have the budget to hire an interior designer, I wouldn’t discourage you. My only caveat is this: Full-scale renovation is a functional and aesthetic choice. Interior design comes with the territory but should not be the priority when you’re fundamentally changing an existing place into something new.
Renovation and remodeling is about creating spaces.
No, remodeling contractors won’t pick out your drapes or furnish your living room with a new chaise lounge, but “design” is so much more than that. Over the last decade, I’ve seen more customers interested in the design aspect of renovation. That’s a good thing. People are slowly coming around to the idea that many of the decisions made during a home renovation really fall under the umbrella of design.
Materials and hardware are a design choice.
Lighting is a design choice. The same goes for whether you want a marble or slate sink. How about an island in your kitchen? All of these choices will change how your space looks and functions.
Function comes before form.
Once you make the decision to improve your home, you want to bring in renovators who have a thorough understanding of the practical aspects of construction and the nuances of design. As contractors, we design for function first. Elegance follows.
Experience and taste go a long way. Working with high-income clients does, too. I like to think the work that we’ve done at Trinity Stone reflects good taste in design and composition. It’s true that we’re not art-institute graduates. That’s okay; this work is our passion.
To create beautiful spaces, you have to have a process.
In the planning phase, we’ll bring you reference materials and photographs and walk you through every decision.
The first thing we do when we begin a renovation is ask questions.
- How do you want to use your space?
- What does the remodel, renovation, or build look like in your mind?
- Do you have a photograph or something you’ve seen that inspired you?
- What feelings do you want to create when you walk in?
We’re not just looking to do a bare-bones renovation here, giving you a blank canvas. Our work is much more thorough than that.
If you want rustic, we’ll provide options. If you want more modern, we can also make that happen. We want to use our knowledge and experience to execute your vision.
Livable spaces start with a strong practical understanding of structure and budget.
We’ll start with structural components and load-bearing elements, electrical, and plumbing, then move on to masonry and the finishing touches, including drywall, flooring, trim, and lighting—all according to the design and material decision that shapes the spirit of the space.
Most importantly, we blend functionality and aesthetics so you get a home that’s beautiful but, more importantly, works for you and improves your life.
We’re easy to work with. Give me a call.
I can confidently say that every person who works here is a craftsman. We’ve worked with homeowners on hundreds of projects of all scales.
Click here to talk to an expert at Trinity Stone Construction today about your next renovation.
— Carlo Menchaca, Founder & CEO
