Had a similar experience when I redid my kitchen last year. The 3D renders were amazing for figuring out the layout and spacing—honestly saved me from making some pretty big mistakes—but man, when the actual countertop samples arrived, it was a whole different story. The marble I thought I'd love looked way colder in person and clashed with the cabinets under daylight. Ended up going with something completely different that wasn't even on my radar initially.
I guess renders are great for spatial decisions and general aesthetics, but nothing beats seeing and feeling real materials in your own space. Lighting, texture, even the subtle color shifts throughout the day...those things just can't be fully captured digitally yet. Balancing the two is definitely key, but I've learned not to get too attached to the digital version until I've held the real thing in my hands.
