I try to budget for a 10-15% overage on every project, just in case. If I don’t use it, great—if I do, at least I’m not scrambling.
That’s smart. I’ve been burned by “good enough” too—once had to redo a whole bathroom because the cheap tile adhesive failed after a year. Now, I always tell clients: invest in what you can’t easily change later. Curious if you ever regret NOT splurging on something? For me, it’s always the lighting... never seems like a big deal until you’re living with it.
Funny you mention lighting—I’ve had clients regret not going for better fixtures or dimmers more than once. For me, it’s usually storage. People always think they’ll be fine with less, but you can’t just add a closet later without a headache. Ever wish you’d gone bigger on windows? That’s one I hear about too.
Ever wish you’d gone bigger on windows? That’s one I hear about too.
Funny thing about windows—everyone loves the idea of more natural light, but I’ve seen plenty of folks regret going too big. It’s not just the upfront cost, either. You get hit with higher energy bills, more glare, and sometimes privacy issues you didn’t think about until you’re living there. I always tell people, balance is key. Oversized windows can look great on paper, but they’re not always practical in every room.
On the storage front, I get where you’re coming from. But honestly, I’ve seen people overdo it with closets and built-ins, and then end up with wasted space they never use. It’s all about figuring out what you actually need, not just what sounds good during planning. Lighting, though—I’ll agree there. Skimping on fixtures or dimmers is one of those things that seems minor until you’re living with it every day.
Oversized windows can look great on paper, but they’re not always practical in every room.
Couldn’t agree more. I once worked with a couple who insisted on a massive window wall in their living room—looked stunning until summer hit and their AC couldn’t keep up. Ended up adding motorized shades after the fact, which wasn’t cheap. Surprises like that are why I always recommend building in a “whoops” fund, even if it’s just a few percent of the total budget. Those little things add up fast, whether it’s extra lighting or fixing a privacy issue you didn’t see coming.
Totally get where you’re coming from. Here’s what I’ve noticed:
- Oversized windows are gorgeous, but the heat gain and privacy issues are real—especially in bedrooms or media rooms.
- Clients often forget about things like glare on TV screens or fading furniture until it’s too late.
- I always push for a bit of flexibility in the budget, but honestly, most folks underestimate how fast those “little fixes” add up.
- Sometimes I wonder if it’s better to plan for some window treatments right from the start, even if they’re basic, just to avoid scrambling later... but then again, not everyone likes the look.
It’s a balancing act—what looks good on paper vs. what actually works day-to-day.
