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Renovation vs. Interior Design Remodeling: Key Differences

Writer's picture: urbanhomedesign4urbanhomedesign4

Among the countless decisions involved in selecting a home to renovate, these two words keep surfacing quite often: renovation and interior design remodelling. Although often used as synonyms in the vocabulary of several people, they still have different meanings, processes, and results. Moreover, knowing these differences can be very significant, especially regarding the fabrication of one's very own living space that is both comfortable and helpful. Be it a renovation or an interior design project, this blog will guide you on the primary distinctions between renovation and interior design remodelling, specifically in Singapore.


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The Key Differences Between Renovation and Interior Design Remodelling

To help you differentiate between renovation and interior design remodelling, here's a closer look at their main differences:


1. Scope of Work

Renovation: This includes changes in the layout of a room, upgrading infrastructure, or adding new rooms. This also may include replacing or restoring damaged parts of a home.

Interior Design Remodelling: It deals with the looks and configuration in a presentable structure. No structural transformation is undertaken; however, interior designers work with furniture, colour, and lighting changes to alter the appearance of a room.


2. Fields of Interest

Renovation: It serves its purpose inside. Features include the replacement of inefficient insulation, upgrading of the electrical system of a house, or offering ample storage.

Interior Design Remodelling: The focus is almost always on simply getting something to look and feel right. Intérieur designers strive to create a space that is functional and aesthetic.


3. Budget

Renovation: Since remodelling inherently does structural work, it stands to reason it will be dramatically more expensive. This includes all expenses-materials, labour, and permits.

Interior Design Remodelling: Typically, interior design is less expensive because it usually doesn't change the architecture in most instances. This implies that you can be able to do drastic overhauls at very minimal costs by focusing on decoration, furniture, and lighting.


4. Time Scale

Renovation: Since remodelling involves changing the architecture of a house, it normally takes longer than interior design. However, based on the type of remodelling, it may take two weeks up to several months in total.

Interior Design Remodelling: Interior design projects are usually faster for the simple reason that they don't need major construction work. Sometimes an easy interior design project can even take just a few weeks.


5. Permits and Regulations

Renovation:  You will often need permits especially when renovation requires drastic structural changes. Building codes must also be followed.

Interior Design Remodelling: Interior design remodelling normally does not require a permit since it does not involve any structural alterations.


Renovation vs. Interior Design Renovation in Singapore

One has to put into perspective one's needs, budget, and the level of change desired when thinking about whether to renovate or have interior design remodelling. Renovation and interior design remodelling do change a space, but they differ in what change takes place. When space is scarce, such as in Singapore, remodelling with interior design is probably your best option for maximising functionality without changing the structure of the home. However, if the house is outdated, and requires major improvements, then renovation would have to be necessary.


Here's how to decide which option is right for you:


1. Measure Your Current Space

Renovation: Consider renovation if your home has structural issues or outdated systems that need repair or upgrade.

Interior Design Remodelling: Consider interior design remodelling if your space is structurally sound but needs aesthetic updates or better space planning.


2. Understand Your Budget

Renovation: If you have more for a bigger budget and want to change the property, renovation might be the way to go. However, it should be remembered that renovation projects may cost a lot especially when permits and building codes apply.

Interior Design Remodelling: If a budget is tighter, interior design remodelling is even more flexible. You can just focus on the look and feel of the space without structural costs.


3. Account for Time Constraints

Renovation: If you have a bigger block of time to let a long-term project breathe, and you can wait for it, the renovation can give you much greater, longer-lasting changes.

Interior Design Remodelling: If quick change is required, then interior design remodelling is the better choice because it will show noticeable results in a minimum amount of time and is perfect for people with very tight schedules.


4. Functionality vs. Aesthetics

Renovation: If it's more functional features, such as upgrading appliances and plumbing or increasing storage, that you want to improve, then renovation is what you need to do.

Interior Design Remodelling: If you want to upgrade the look of your house rather than improve functionality, interior design is the way to go. There are many interior designs to choose from to make your space look beautiful and fun.


Conclusion

Knowing the difference between renovation and interior design remodelling should help one choose how they want to upgrade his or her living space. Whereas renovation is more about structural changes and functionality, remodelling enhances the aesthetic and flow within a room. So, one is better than the other, depending on your budget, the timeline you want to work with, and the scope of changes you want to make for your room. For instance, in a country like Singapore, maximising space is crucial, and thus you will find that both approaches can be useful together.


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