Rome wasn't built in a day, and your home won't be either. How to get organized through the home renovation process.

Renovating a home isn’t for the faint of heart. Whether you’re tearing down walls on a fixer-upper or just updating a few rooms, it can feel like you’ve signed up for an extreme sport. There’s planning, decision-making, and yes—definitely some chaos. But hey, the phrase “Rome wasn’t built in a day” exists for a reason. Big changes take time, and renovating your home is no exception.

So how do you keep from drowning in a sea of Pinterest boards, paint swatches, and contractor quotes? The key is getting organized. A well-planned renovation can keep you on track and (mostly) sane. Whether you're still in the dreaming phase or already knee-deep in construction dust, here are some practical tips to keep your project moving—and your stress levels low.

1. Start with a Clear Vision and Plan

Before you start swinging a sledgehammer or signing contracts, take a moment to figure out what you actually want. Seriously, take a breath. Ask yourself:

• What’s the point of this renovation? Are you trying to boost home value, make your space more livable, or just jump on the latest design trends?

• What’s your budget? (Don’t pretend like you’re not secretly hoping that your renovation will cost way less than it actually will.)

• Are there must-have features? Think sleek appliances, open shelving, or maybe a fancy new bathtub that makes you feel like royalty.

Create a vision board (old school, I know) or a digital mood board. It’s like a visual roadmap that’ll guide you through the process and give you something concrete to refer to when you’re staring at 17 different shades of white paint. Bonus points for using Pinterest, Houzz, or Instagram to gather inspiration and save it in a folder that’s easy to reference. Trust me, future-you will thank you.

Pro Tip: A mood board isn’t just for show— it helps when talking to contractors or designers so everyone’s on the same page.

2. Set a Realistic Timeline

If you think your renovation will be wrapped up in a weekend, well, I’ve got a bridge to sell you. The truth is, renovations rarely go as planned—things take longer than you expect, and surprises (the not-so-fun kind) are inevitable. But that’s OK. The key is setting a timeline that gives you some wiggle room.

Break the project into phases and estimate how long each one will take. Don’t forget to factor in things like shipping delays, weather setbacks, or your contractor’s schedule. Plan for the unexpected, because it will happen.

Pro Tip: Always add buffer time for decisions that come up at the last minute—like when you suddenly hate that backsplash you picked out last week. (It happens.)

3. Establish a Budget and Stick to It

Let’s talk numbers: A well-defined budget is the backbone of any renovation. Without it, you’re kind of like a ship sailing with no map. Start by breaking down your costs:

• Materials (think flooring, paint, countertops, etc.)

• Labor (contractors, electricians, plumbers— the real heroes)

• Miscellaneous (permits, inspections, tools you’ll probably never use again)

And don’t forget the contingency fund. You’ll want to stash away 10-20% of your budget for those “oh, we didn’t see that coming” moments. Trust me, they happen. Staying organized with your budget can help you prioritize the important stuff and avoid overspending on random shiny things (like that fancy faucet you just had to have).

Pro Tip: Use a digital spreadsheet to track expenses in real-time, or better yet, download an app designed for home reno budgets. It’s like having a financial planner who’s not judging you for that extra marble countertop.

4. Hire the Right Professionals

Unless you’re a licensed plumber or carpenter (in which case, can I borrow you for a weekend?), you’ll need some help. Whether it’s a general contractor, electrician, or plumber, finding the right professionals is crucial. Start by reading reviews, asking for referrals, and checking out past work to make sure they’re the real deal. (Pssssst Huggelig helps with updates & renovations designs).

Make sure everyone knows your vision and your budget so there are no surprises down the road. A great contractor will be your guide through the process and help you make smart, cost-effective decisions.

Pro Tip: Schedule regular check-ins with your contractor so you can stay on top of things—this also gives you a chance to ask those questions, like, “Why is my bathroom now the size of a closet?”

5. Organize Your Space (and Your Life!) During Construction

Living in your home while it’s under construction? Get ready for a mess. It’s like living in an obstacle course. To survive the chaos, it’s important to stay organized. Set up temporary spaces for things like your kitchen or bathroom. Consider a mini-fridge, portable stove, or even a microwave for those late-night snacks.

And for the love of your sanity, organize your materials and tools. Label everything and keep your space as clutter-free as possible. You’ll thank yourself when you can find your coffee maker after the third week of drywall dust.

Pro Tip: If you're not living in the house during renovations, pack up and label everything so you won’t need a treasure map to find it all when the dust settles.

6. Stay Flexible, But Stay Focused

Renovations are notorious for throwing curveballs—unexpected structural issues, design hiccups, you name it. Stay calm and remember that even small setbacks aren’t the end of the world. Focus on the big picture and keep your end goal in sight.

When things feel chaotic, step back, breathe, and refocus. You’ve got this!

Pro Tip: Keep all your important documents—contracts, design ideas, project updates—in one place. Whether it’s a physical folder or a digital folder, this will save your brain from turning into a Pinterest board of anxiety.

7. Don’t Forget About the Final Touches

You’re almost there! As the big construction work wraps up, don’t forget the final details—paint, flooring, furniture, and decor. These are the magic touches that turn a house into your home. Need help with picking the perfect lighting, fixtures, or a sofa you'll be swooning over? That’s exactly what we do at Huggelig Homes.

Pro Tip: Before making your final payment, do a walkthrough with your contractor to make sure everything is perfect. This is your moment to make sure the baseboards actually are white, not beige.

Renovating your home is an exciting journey, but let’s face it, it’s not always a smooth one. By staying organized, sticking to your plan, and remaining flexible, you’ll make it through without losing your mind (or your shirt). Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day—and neither is a dream home. With the right prep and a little patience, you’ll have a space that’s truly yours in no time.

Happy renovating!

Two Heads are Better than One: Why you Should Hire a Professional Designer and Stager when Selling your Home

Selling your home? Congrats! You’re about to embark on one of the most exciting—and occasionally nerve-wracking—journeys of your life. But here's the thing: In today’s real estate market, first impressions are everything. Whether you’re selling a cozy bungalow or a swanky penthouse, potential buyers are going to form their opinions faster than you can say, "Open house!"

So, how do you make sure they walk through your front door and instantly picture themselves living there? Well, spoiler alert: It’s not by leaving your mismatched furniture and the mystery stain on the carpet. Enter the dynamic duo—a professional designer and a stager.

Sure, you might think, "I can just do this myself, right?" You could... but why would you when hiring an expert is basically the equivalent of putting your home in the hands of HGTV professionals? Let’s break down why two heads are definitely better than one when it comes to selling your home.

1. Designers See Potential, Stagers See Possibilities

You know your home better than anyone else. But here’s the kicker: Designers have this magical power to see your space with fresh eyes. They can walk into a room and immediately spot what could be transformed—without getting distracted by your beloved collection of cat-themed coffee mugs.

• Making spaces work harder: A designer knows how to make a room feel more open or more functional, even if it's the size of a shoebox. They’ll find clever ways to rework layouts that make rooms feel spacious and airy, even if the square footage doesn’t exactly scream "palatial."

• Bringing the "wow" factor: Designers also have this sixth sense for color, furniture placement, and material choices. Your hot-pink feature wall? They’ll turn that into something neutral and calming (thank us later).

Once the necessary design changes have been made, it’s time for the staging. Staging will turn your home from “okay, I guess” to “wow, I could totally live here.” Their secret weapon? Making the home feel welcoming and warm.

2. Staging Makes Your Home Feel Like a Dream—Not a Project

Ever seen a room full of empty walls and furniture shoved in the corner? Yikes. It can leave buyers feeling like they're walking through a museum—except with none of the charm. This is where the staging really shines.

• It's all about the vibe: Staging creates an inviting atmosphere that makes buyers feel like the space could be theirs. It’s all about creating that warm, lived-in vibe (without the piles of laundry and the half-drunk cups of coffee you’d normally find in your living room).

• You’ll never look at your space the same way again: Staging doesn’t just make the space look pretty—it makes it functional, too. it’ll show buyers how to use awkward spaces (like that tiny nook between the fridge and the wall) and turn them into something that feels totally intentional.

And let’s not forget, staged homes photograph like a dream. Seriously—those glossy magazine-style shots? That’s the magic of staging. You’ll get more eyes on your listing, more showings, and, you guessed it, more offers.

3. When Designers and Stagers Team Up, It’s Like a Power Couple of Home Selling

Here’s the thing: you don’t want to hire a designer or a stager separately, and with Huggelig you don’t have to. You want the dream team. It’s like Batman and Robin, but for your home. When the two work together, magic happens.

• Design brings the vision: It looks at the big picture—colors, furniture, flow—and creates a space that’s stylish and functional.

• Staging brings the charm: It takes that vision and makes it feel lived-in—by adding those last little touches (hello, fresh flowers and carefully placed books) that turn a house into a home.

And with Huggelig Homes, you get both roles all under one roof. Huggelig focuses on the design, and the staging, making sure every single buyer can picture themselves eating dinner in that lovely dining room (while mentally measuring for their own oversized sofa).

4. More Money, Less Time on the Market—It’s a Win-Win

Here’s where the rubber meets the road: Hiring a stager will likely get you a faster sale—and for more money. The numbers don’t lie:

• According to the National Association of Realtors, staged homes can sell up to 73% faster than those that aren’t. That’s more time spent sipping coffee and less time worrying about why your listing isn’t getting the attention it deserves.

• Homes that are professionally staged and designed can also sell for up to 20% more than unstaged homes. That’s a pretty sweet return on investment, don’t you think?

Do you want your home to sit on the market for months, or do you want buyers to be fighting over it the moment it hits the listings? If you're hoping for the latter, a design and home staging team will be your best friends.

5. Less Stress, More Results

Selling a home can be stressful—trust us, we know. Between packing, finding your next place, dealing with paperwork, and keeping the house show-ready, you don’t need one more thing on your plate.

This is where a professional team comes in clutch. They’ll handle all the design decisions, styling, and set-up so you don’t have to. You’ll get to skip the stress of choosing paint colors that definitely aren’t too bold and instead, let the experts do what they do best.

You’ll be able to breathe easy, knowing that your home is in good hands—and the best part? You get to enjoy a smooth and stress-free sale process. Who doesn't want that?

Selling your home is a big deal, and when the pressure’s on, you want to make sure your home is presented in the best possible way. By using Huggelig Homes’ design and staging services, you’ll create a home that looks amazing, feels inviting, and (most importantly) appeals to the right buyers.

So, take a deep breath, relax, and let us work our magic!

How to style your Bedside Table

When it comes to designing a bedroom, we often focus on the bed itself—the obvious focal point of the room. But let's not forget the importance of the smaller details, like the bedside tables.

These pieces of furniture serve a functional purpose - like being a landing ground for all the odds and ends you carry to bed with you at the end of the day, but they also have the potential to elevate the overall look of your space. Styling your bedside tables thoughtfully can create a balanced, harmonious environment that enhances the comfort and aesthetic of your bedroom.

So without further ado, here’s a short guide on how to style your bedside tables with style and purpose.

1. Start with the Basics: Choose the Right Bedside Table

Before you dive into decorating, ensure that your bedside table suits the size of your bed and the overall aesthetic of the room. For larger beds (like a king or queen), choose tables with sufficient surface area for functional and decorative items. For smaller spaces, consider slim-profile tables or even wall-mounted shelves to keep the room from feeling crowded.

Opt for designs that complement the style of the room—whether that's modern, minimalist, traditional, or boho. Materials matter too: a wood table can add warmth, while metal or glass may bring a contemporary edge.

2. Begin with Lighting: A Stylish Lamp

A lamp is a bedside essential, both practical and stylish. Whether it’s a sleek modern table lamp, a vintage-inspired fixture, or a statement chandelier hanging above, lighting will set the tone for the room. Choose a lamp that provides adequate lighting for reading or relaxing, but also adds a decorative element to the table.

3. Keep It Practical: Add Essentials

Think about what you actually need at arm’s reach when you're in bed. Some practical items to consider include:

• A Clock: A stylish alarm clock can add both form and function to your bedside. Choose a vintage, minimalist, or digital clock, depending on your style.

• Charging Station: A charging dock for your phone and other devices is both necessary and stylish. Try a sleek, modern charging station or a wireless charging pad that blends seamlessly with the décor.

• A Coaster: A coaster for your nightly water glass or cup of tea can add a touch of organization and prevent spills from damaging your furniture.

Keep these essentials minimal, as you don't want your bedside table to look cluttered or overwhelming. Prioritize what you'll use daily, and make sure it’s easily accessible.

4. Add Personal Touches: Books and Artwork

Books are an easy way to personalize your bedside table while also bringing in texture and color. Stack a few of your favorite books (or even coffee table books) in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. Opt for books with beautiful covers that complement your bedroom's color palette or design theme.

Consider adding a small framed photo or a piece of artwork for added charm. A minimalist frame with a black-and-white photo or a colorful abstract piece can create visual interest and make the space feel personal.

5. Bring in Some Greenery: Plants

Plants are an excellent way to breathe life into your bedside tables. Whether it’s a small succulent, a trailing plant, or a delicate fern, greenery adds natural beauty and a sense of calm to your bedroom. Choose plants that thrive in low-light conditions if your bedside table is near the bed and away from natural light sources.

6. Add Texture and Color: Decorative Objects

After adding your essential items, incorporate some decorative objects to infuse your personality into the space. Some ideas include:

• Trays: A chic tray can help corral your everyday items and add an extra layer of style. Opt for materials like metal, ceramic, or wood to bring texture to the table.

• Candles: A beautiful candle with a pleasing scent can create a relaxing atmosphere, especially in the evening. Look for candles in unique containers that match the room’s decor.

• Vases: A simple vase with fresh or faux flowers adds color and softness to the space. Choose a vase that complements the room’s design without overpowering it.

You can also mix in a few decorative objects, such as a small sculpture, a decorative bowl, or an antique trinket. Just be sure not to overcrowd the space; less is often more when it comes to styling bedside tables.

7. Consider Symmetry vs. Asymmetry

There’s no right or wrong way to style your bedside tables, but how you arrange the items can create different visual effects. A symmetrical arrangement—where both tables mirror each other in terms of item placement—creates a sense of balance and order, perfect for a more traditional or formal look.

On the other hand, an asymmetrical arrangement can feel more relaxed and organic. For instance, you could place a taller item, like a lamp or a plant, on one side of the table, and smaller items like books or candles on the other. This is great for a more modern or eclectic feel.

8. Leave Space for Breathing Room

One common mistake when styling bedside tables is overloading them with items. A cluttered table can make the room feel chaotic and detract from the peaceful, restful vibe of a bedroom. Be sure to leave some negative space so that the table feels open and airy.

Even if you’re using the table to store essentials, try to keep the surface as clean as possible, leaving room for movement and creating an overall serene look.

Final Thoughts: Less Is More

In the end, the key to styling your bedside tables is to strike a balance between function and aesthetics. Keep your essentials within reach, but don’t overcrowd the space. Add a few well-chosen decorative pieces that reflect your personality, and don’t forget about lighting to create an inviting, cozy atmosphere.

A Huggelig Before and After

Scroll through the before and after shots below to see how Huggelig Homes helped to design and transform this house with design help and staging. It’s amazing to see how these spaces transform!

The dining room

The living room

The primary bedroom

The entryway

The sitting area

White Dove: The Chameleon of Paint Colors

Benjamin Moore's White Dove isn't just a paint color; it's a secret weapon for interior designers and DIY enthusiasts alike. This magical hue has a way of transforming spaces, adapting to different lighting conditions, and playing well with others. It's like the Swiss Army knife of paint colors, ready to tackle any design challenge.

All image credits: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-ca/paint-colours/colour/oc-17/white-dove

With its subtle warmth and creamy undertones, White Dove creates a serene and inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect backdrop for bold accent colors, delicate pastels, or even a minimalist monochrome scheme. Whether you're dreaming of a cozy bedroom retreat or a sleek, modern living room, White Dove is the versatile choice that never disappoints.

What are your thoughts on White Dove?

Our Top Fall Paint Color Picks & What’s Coming Next

With the touch of crispy cool air and fall leaves dusting the pavement, it's the perfect time to refresh your spaces with fall and winter color inspo. 

Here are some of our end of year favorites for 2024, bold deep cozy hues that will transform your home for this season and beyond. These trending earthy shades are a reaction to the clean bright palettes that have been dominating for the past few years.

And hello- you doubters out there- you may cling to your through and through white white white for awhile, but we guarantee you will soon be caught in an incoming wave of dark deep beauty These colors are perfect for a calm retreat or energized accents.

So, go ahead and accept the incoming moody warmth about to envelop your home and give you all the feels!

Benjamin Moore Metallic Gold 2613-40

Image from: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-colors/color/2163-40/metallic-gold

Sherwin Williams Sable 6083

Image from: https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/color/color-family/orange-paint-colors/SW6083-sable

Sherwin Williams Clay Pot 2917

Image from: https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/color/color-family/archived-paint-colors/sw2917-clay-pot

Farrow and Ball Oxford Stone No. 264

Image from: @nefarious_interior_design

Farrow and Ball Green Smoke No. 43

Image from: https://www.sarahkaron.com/farrow-ball-green-smoke-matches-dupes/

Farro and Ball De Nimes No. 299

Image from: @zoefeldmandesign

And big news…. Violets and purples are moving in fast. Watch as the 2025 colors of the year lean into the red/violet/purple.