Transforming Your Space on a Budget: How to do a Modest Makeover
At Hemby Home Co., one of our passions is empowering people to make their spaces their own without having big budgets. We believe functional, beautiful design is achievable for everyone, and our mission is to make that possible. While home transformations can be exciting projects, they require careful planning and consideration, and can be expensive, so today we are talking about a different type of renovation, a “modest makeover”.
So what is a “modest makeover”?
A modest makeover is a way for you to make changes to a space, without doing a renovation, which is typically costly and time-consuming. For the remodel or renovation of a kitchen, you’d likely be replacing the flooring, changing the backsplash, replacing the countertops and cabinetry, getting all new lighting, and possibly even changing the layout. All of that costs a lot of money.
In a modest makeover, you aren’t going for a radical transformation of the space. Instead the goal is meaningful and valuable upgrades. This means focusing on changing the things that will have the biggest felt impact, or yield the largest return in terms of the problem you are trying to solve. Focusing on this transforms the feel and tangible experience of the space even more than it changes the look, and it means it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.
If you’ve ever watched a home improvement show, you’ll know that costs go up when plumbing, electric, and walls get moved. For this reason, in a modest makeover these should be left alone. Rather than fighting the bones of the space you’re working with, a modest makeover embraces the constraints of the space to save on budget and effort.
There are five steps to transforming your space in a modest makeover:
Identify the problem
Begin planning and research
Figure out your budget
Start shopping
Hire work or DIY
Step 1: Identify the Problem
The first crucial step is understanding the issues in your space that you need to address. Clearly defining the problems sets the stage for finding effective solutions.
Note: Be prepared to compromise. Your dream scenario might not align with a modest makeover budget.
Step 2: Begin Planning and Research
Planning is a multi-step process. Begin by gathering inspiration for your design. Next, eliminate ideas that don't fit your space's context. And finally, research materials and create a list of the items you will need.
Step 3: Figure Out the Budget
Now that you understand costs, you can set a realistic budget that takes into account both material costs and labor. Make sure to be cost-pessimistic and have a cash cushion for unexpected expenses.
Step 4: Shop!
Place your orders, put down deposits, and start finalizing details. Make sure you shop around for the best deals and try to time purchases around sale times.
Step 5: Get to work (or sit back and relax)
This is when the magic and work happens. If you’re doing the work yourself, get in and go for it, go slow, and work smart. If you’re not doing the work, then once everything is purchased and the work is underway, sit back and enjoy the transformation.
A modest makeover requires thoughtful planning, compromise, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can achieve a transformation that aligns with your vision and budget. Remember, the journey may take time, but the result will be a space that brings you joy and meets your need. Enjoy the process!
Want to learn more about Modest Makeovers? Listen to Episode 3 of the Podcast, or buy the Modest Makeover How-To Guide
