How to Determine Your Budget Before Starting a Design Project | Two Cats Interiors
One of the most common questions I hear when homeowners first reach out to Two Cats Interiors is:
“How do we even figure out what our budget should be?”
It’s a completely understandable question. Most people don’t remodel their homes very often, and it can be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to setting a realistic budget.
At the same time, having a clear “do not exceed” budget is incredibly helpful during the design process. It allows me to guide material selections, layout decisions, and design options in a way that respects what my clients feel comfortable investing.
The good news is that there are several simple ways to begin determining what a realistic project budget might look like.
Start With Your Comfort Level
Before researching costs or looking at materials, I always encourage homeowners to first think about their personal comfort level.
Ask yourself:
• What investment feels comfortable for our household?
• What range would begin to feel stressful?
• Are we planning to stay in this home long term?
Your budget should always begin with what feels manageable and responsible for your household.
When clients come to Two Cats Interiors with a general range in mind, it helps us start shaping the project in a thoughtful and realistic way.
Research Typical Project Costs
Once you have a general comfort range, the next step is learning what projects like yours typically cost. For example, you might research:
• average bathroom remodel costs
• kitchen renovation ranges
• furniture budgets for a full room design
• flooring replacement costs
These ranges can vary widely depending on materials, labor, and location, which is why it can sometimes feel difficult to know what information to trust online.
Because this question comes up so often, I’ve created a Budget Planning Guide that outlines typical project ranges based on current market conditions. This guide can help give homeowners a clearer picture of what different types of design projects may cost.
If you would like a copy of the guide, you’re always welcome to reach out to Two Cats Interiors and I would be happy to send it to you.
Identify Your Priorities
Every project includes elements that matter more than others.
Some homeowners care most about:
• high-quality tile
• beautiful lighting
• custom cabinetry
• durable flooring
• statement furniture pieces
When I work with clients through Two Cats Interiors, we talk about which elements are most important so the budget can be allocated accordingly.
Prioritizing allows us to invest in the features that will make the biggest difference in the final design.
Leave Room for the Unexpected
One important part of planning any remodel is recognizing that unexpected issues can arise once work begins.
For example:
• plumbing updates
• electrical adjustments
• structural repairs
• material availability changes
Because of this, it’s always wise to build a small contingency into the budget.
Having a little flexibility helps keep the project moving smoothly if something unexpected comes up.
Be Honest About Your Do Not Exceed Number
One of the most helpful things clients can share with me at Two Cats Interiors is the number they truly do not want to go beyond.
This number isn’t about limiting creativity — it’s about creating clarity.
When I understand the financial parameters of a project, I can guide design decisions in a way that aligns with my clients’ goals and helps prevent uncomfortable surprises later in the process.
A Thoughtful Budget Leads to Better Design
Setting a realistic budget is one of the most important steps in any successful design project.
When expectations are clear from the beginning, the design process becomes far more enjoyable. It allows us to focus on thoughtful design choices that bring your vision to life while respecting the investment you feel comfortable making.
At Two Cats Interiors, I enjoy helping clients navigate these early planning steps so their projects begin with confidence and clarity.
Request the Budget Planning Guide
If you're in the early stages of planning a remodel or interior design project and would like a clearer idea of current project costs, Two Cats Interiors offers a helpful Budget Planning Guide that outlines typical investment ranges for common design projects.
To request a copy of the guide, please visit:
From there, you can contact me directly and I will be happy to send the guide to you.
Many homeowners find that reviewing the guide helps them feel more confident determining a comfortable “do not exceed” budget before beginning the design process.
