How to Choose the Right Materials for Your Home Renovation
One of the most challenging parts of renovating your home is the sheer number of decisions you have to make.
While it might not be in the job description, one of the most important skills an interior designer has is decisiveness. Each choice requires thought, research, and, frankly, knowledge. Even with the help of a designer, as a homeowner, you will still face decision fatigue in home renovations at some point.
The fear of making the wrong decision is something I deeply understand, so I thought I’d share some basics on what you’ll need to consider when making these choices. The area that feels (and truly is) the most consequential: home renovation materials.
You can have a beautifully designed space, but if the materials you select for your home renovation are inherently flawed or misused, you’ll end up with an expensive mess to fix - or a space that doesn’t function properly.
Let’s dive into some high-level do’s and don’ts for choosing home renovation materials to help make these decisions a little easier.
Choosing the Right Stone for Countertops and Surfaces
We love natural stone for countertops and other surfaces - it’s timeless, durable, and elegant. However, not all stones are created equal, and each type has unique considerations.
Marble Countertops
Pros: Gorgeous and timeless with a unique, natural pattern that varies piece by piece. Available in polished (shiny), honed (matte), or leathered (textured) finishes.
Cons: Marble countertops are porous and prone to etching, scratching, and staining - especially from acidic substances like lemon juice or wine. It also requires regular sealing and maintenance.
What to Consider - Be mindful of cracks and fissures inherent to the slab. These are part of the natural beauty of marble countertops, but they might not be ideal for high-traffic kitchen surfaces.
Quartz Countertops
Pros: Non-porous, stain-resistant, and low maintenance. Quartz is an engineered stone, which means it’s consistent in pattern and available in a wide range of colours.
Cons: Not as heat-resistant as natural stone countertops and lacks the organic variability of natural materials.
What to Consider - This is a great option for busy households, especially in kitchens and bathrooms where durability is key.
Granite Countertops
Pros: Highly durable and heat-resistant granite countertops are less porous than marble, making it a popular choice for kitchen renovations.
Cons: Needs periodic sealing to maintain its resistance to staining. Available selection is less widely appealing.
What to Consider - The natural pattern and veining can vary widely, so make sure to view and approve the exact granite slab before purchase.
How to Choose the Right Tile for Your Home
Tiles are versatile and can completely transform a space, but selecting the right tile for home renovations involves more than just picking something pretty.
Tile Materials
Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles: Durable, low-maintenance, and available in countless styles. Porcelain tiles are denser and more water-resistant, making them ideal for bathroom renovations.
Natural Stone Tiles: Marble, travertine, or slate tiles can add a luxurious feel but require sealing and ongoing maintenance to prevent staining or damage.
Tile Application
Wall Tiles: Glossy tiles (like subway tiles) are great for backsplashes and accent walls but should not be used on floors due to their slippery surface.
Floor Tiles: Ensure they’re rated for floor use and have adequate slip resistance, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Smaller tiles like penny rounds or hexagons provide extra grout lines, which add traction.
Tile Size Considerations
Large Format Tiles: This creates a clean, modern look with fewer grout lines but can be challenging to install in small spaces or uneven surfaces.
Small Tiles: Adds texture and detail, though they require more grout, which can be harder to clean and maintain over time.
Maintenance
Consider your willingness to maintain the tiles. While marble tiles are timeless, they require sealing and extra care. For a low-maintenance option, porcelain or ceramic is often a better choice.
Metal Finishes: How to Choose the Right Hardware and Fixtures
Metal finishes in home design often feel like the jewellery of a space - subtle but impactful. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Consistency vs. Contrast
Decide whether you want all your finishes (faucets, hardware, lighting) to match or mix. Mixed metal finishes can create depth and interest when done thoughtfully.
Finish Types
Polished: Shiny and reflective but shows fingerprints and water spots easily.
Brushed/Satin: Matte with a soft sheen; more forgiving for everyday use.
Aged or Antiqued: Adds character and warmth, great for vintage or rustic home styles.
Durability
Consider how each finish will hold up in high-use areas. For instance, polished brass may tarnish over time, while brushed nickel is more durable.
Best Paint Finishes for Every Room in Your Home
Paint might seem straightforward, but the finish you choose can make or break the look and functionality of a room.
Finish Recommendations for Interior Paint
Walls: Eggshell or flat. Eggshell paint is easier to clean but still has a soft, matte appearance. Flat paint hides imperfections but is harder to maintain.
Ceilings: Always go for flat ceiling paint to avoid distracting reflections.
Trim & Doors: Satin or semi-gloss for durability and a subtle shine. Semi-gloss paint is easier to clean, while satin provides a softer look.
Bathrooms: Use moisture-resistant bathroom paint to prevent mold and mildew.
Pro Tips
Always prime your surfaces before painting to ensure the colour applies evenly and lasts longer.
Test paint samples in your space to see how they look in different lighting conditions - natural and artificial.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re tackling a project yourself or working with an interior designer, understanding these basics will help you make informed decisions.
Home renovations can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into thoughtful, well-researched choices makes the process much smoother.