“Okay, I’m Ready—Now What?”

By Ester White Gherea | WBN News | July 24, 2025

Your Renovation Timeline, Explained

In Part 1, we talked about how to get unstuck and take the first steps toward renovating your home with clarity and confidence. But now that you’ve defined your vision, set your budget, and maybe even booked your consultation—there’s another big question:

“What actually happens next?”

This is where the process can feel like a mystery. And if you’ve heard horror stories about blown timelines or projects dragging on for months, it’s easy to feel anxious.

So let’s take the unknown out of it. Here’s a realistic renovation timeline that shows you exactly what to expect when working with a designer—and why the right plan is just as important as the design itself.

Phase 1: Discovery & Concept

Timeframe: 1–2 weeks
This is where we start. We walk through your home, talk about how you live, and map out your goals. You share inspiration photos, and I ask a lot of questions—some you may not have even thought of yet. This phase ends with a clear concept: your “big picture.”

My role:

Help you clarify your priorities
Identify opportunities and limitations
Set a realistic design direction
Begin to shape your budget and timeline

Phase 2: Design Development & Sourcing

Timeframe: 2–4 weeks (can vary based on complexity)
Now it gets exciting. I’ll present mood boards, layout options, materials, fixtures, and finishes—all customized to your lifestyle, taste, and budget. You get to visualize your new space, and we make design decisions together.

My role:

Curate selections that work together cohesively
Source products that fit both your vision and budget
Handle technical drawings, elevations, and measurements
Adjust the design based on your feedback

Phase 3: Budget Finalization & Trade Coordination

Timeframe: 1–2 weeks
Once the design is approved, I help you get real numbers. That means connecting you with trusted trades and suppliers, getting quotes, and finalizing timelines. If anything needs to be adjusted to stay within your budget, this is the time to do it.

My role:

Liaise with contractors and trades
Review quotes and troubleshoot any red flags
Keep everything organized so nothing gets missed

Phase 4: Construction

Timeframe: Varies widely by project (3–12 weeks on average for kitchens, bathrooms, or main floors)
This is where the magic (and mess) happens. Demo begins, materials arrive, and trades get to work. It can feel chaotic—but with the right planning, it doesn’t have to be stressful.

My role:

Check in regularly to ensure everything is being installed as designed
Answer questions from trades on-site
Troubleshoot issues quickly
Keep you updated on progress and timelines

Phase 5: Styling & Reveal

Timeframe: 1–3 days
Once construction wraps up, it’s time for the finishing touches. I bring in furniture, art, lighting, and styling elements that pull everything together and make your space truly shine.

My role:

Style the space for function and beauty
Ensure every detail reflects your vision
Give you that “wow” moment when you walk in

Let’s Be Honest: Things Don’t Always Go Perfectly

Materials get delayed. Walls surprise us. Life happens.
But the difference between chaos and control is having a designer who stays on top of it all, communicates clearly, and protects your vision from start to finish.

You Deserve a Beautiful Home—Without the Stress

A well-designed renovation doesn’t start with a hammer. It starts with a plan.
And a designer doesn’t just help you choose finishes. I guide the entire journey—from your very first idea to the moment you fall in love with your home again.

Let’s make this renovation the one that works—for your space, your life, and your peace of mind.
📞 Book your complimentary consultation and let’s build a plan that feels as good as the final reveal.

Ester White Gherea is an Interior Designer and the founder of Gherea Studio.
She can be reached at 236-339-6644 or estergherea@gmail.com. Connect with Ester on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ester-white-gherea-6b339a2b5/. Connect with Ester at https://www.ghereastudio.com/.

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