What Really Happens Behind the Scenes on Home Renovation TV Shows
We are all familiar with those home renovation TV shows that make everything look easy. The designers look beautiful, there is no mess, and everything is perfectly transformed in just a few days. Well, I have a secret to tell you. That’s…not…reality. There is soooo much more that happens behind the scenes in a home makeover. I will give you a peek into what really happens behind the scenes.
Detail #1: The Plan & Design are in Place Before Demo Day
At the beginning of these shows, you see the designer and the homeowner rolling up their sleeves to start knocking down walls. The truth is, there is a lot of leg work that happens before the “demo day” you see on TV. (And, did I mention? Neither designers nor homeowners actually do the demolition.) Designs are presented, plans are drawn up, trades are consulted, and permits are pulled. All these things must happen before a sledgehammer is put to the outdated kitchen.
Detail #2: Skilled Tradespeople Follow a Reasonable Timeline
Having a crew of hundreds working around the clock to get a renovation completed in a week is not the norm! Yes, it does take a dedicated group of highly skilled individuals to make preparations and put everything in place, but it’s a much smaller crew that works regular business hours. In real life, reasonable timelines and goals are agreed upon and followed through a months-long process.
Detail #3: The Total Investment Includes All Labor & Materials
When it comes to the budgets set on these TV shows, oftentimes they don’t add up to what things really cost or include everything that goes into the project. They may throw out a number to remodel a kitchen which sounds like a deal on TV, when in reality, a kitchen rehab may be twice as much. Things like labor and materials are not necessarily factored into the budget because they may be donated by an advertiser or supplied by the TV show.
Feeling Prepared for Your Renovation
As you can see, these “reality” design shows are not reality at all and can trick homeowners into thinking a renovation will be quick and easy. If you are about to undertake a renovation and aren’t sure about the process, reach out to an interior designer you trust. A designer can help you understand the process, set up a timeline, and formulate a budget based on the scope of your project. When everything feels right, you’ll be more confident to proceed with your project.
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Until next time,