Preparing for Your Home Remodel | Renovations, Home Improvement, Kitchen Design, Bathroom Design, Welcoming Home

In this episode of Remodels Made Easy, I’m kicking off a brand-new mini series all about materials and selections—starting with one of my favorites: countertops. There are so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming, so I’m breaking it down and sharing four key factors that will help you confidently choose the countertop that fits your home, lifestyle, and budget. I’ll walk you through how to balance function, aesthetics, maintenance, and manufacturer differences, and what questions to ask when comparing materials and companies. Whether you’re drawn to timeless natural stone or the practicality of man-made surfaces, I want to help you narrow your choices and make smart, informed decisions for your remodel. ✨ By the end of this episode, you’ll know what matters most when choosing countertops—and how to avoid those “I wish I’d known” regrets so many homeowners have after install day.   Next Steps: Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Check out Pocket Designer Sessions:  https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/pocketdesigner Don’t Forget! Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Happy Remodeling!  Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/ 

If you’ve ever wondered how to create a remodel that’s actually budget-friendly without sacrificing quality, this episode is a must-listen. In this episode, I’m breaking down the “Good, Fast, Cheap” rule — and why you can only pick two. We’ll walk through what that really looks like in a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or even a whole home remodel — and how to decide what’s right for your goals, lifestyle, and budget. You’ll learn how to: ✅ Choose the best route for your remodel — from DIY to design-build firms to hiring individual remodeling contractors ✅ Save thousands by designing and managing your own renovation project ✅ Build a beautiful, functional, budget-friendly home without cutting corners ✅ Avoid overwhelm by knowing where to spend time (and where to save it) If your dream is a good-quality, budget-conscious remodel that still gives you a space you love to live in — this episode is packed with practical steps to make that happen.   Next Steps: Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Check out Pocket Designer Sessions:  https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/pocketdesigner Don’t Forget! Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Happy Remodeling!  Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/ 

Ready to design your dream kitchen layout—but not sure where to start? In this episode, I’m breaking down four crucial design details you don’t want to overlook before locking in your kitchen layout. We’ll talk about how to: ✅ Plan your appliances first (and why skipping spec sheets can blow your budget) ✅ Use the kitchen work triangle to create a space that actually flows ✅ Incorporate those bells, whistles, and storage solutions—from pull-out trash bins to spice organizers ✅ Avoid costly mistakes by understanding clearances, codes, and kitchen design standards Whether you’re tackling a DIY kitchen remodel, planning a kitchen renovation with a contractor, or dreaming up a timeless kitchen design for your forever home, this episode will help you avoid decision fatigue and save time, money, and stress. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Where do I even start with my kitchen layout?” — this is the episode for you. Next Steps: Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Check out Pocket Designer Sessions:  https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/pocketdesigner Don’t Forget! Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Happy Remodeling!  Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/   

In this episode of Remodels Made Easy, I’m diving into one of the most important parts of any home renovation or remodeling project — planning and design. I share how taking the time to create a clear layout and detailed blueprint can keep your project on track, on budget, and a lot less stressful. I walk you through how to take accurate measurements, think through functionality, and use tools like SketchUp to draft your own design — even if you’re tackling your DIY home improvement project for the first time. Plus, I talk about the importance of contractor communication and how proper planning makes those conversations smoother and more productive. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by where to start with your remodel, this episode will help you take confident, organized steps toward the home you’ve been dreaming of. Next Steps: Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Check out Pocket Designer Sessions:  https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/pocketdesigner Don’t Forget! Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Happy Remodeling!  Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/   

You don’t want to get to the end of your remodel regretting decisions you made in the rush to get things done. Trust me — I’ve seen it too many times: homeowners who focus only on aesthetics and forget about how the space will actually work for their lives. I’m Jen — designer, project manager, and your remodel accountability partner and you back pocket designer. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what many homeowners overlook: function. Before you start picking finishes or scrolling more Pinterest boards, we’re going to talk about how your space moves and works for you and your family. I introduce something I call a Function Audit — a process to help you uncover what’s working, what’s driving you crazy, and how to make meaningful changes so your finished space doesn’t just look good — it functions well and feels good to live in. You’ll learn how to: Identify what’s working well in your current layout Pinpoint problem areas that cause frustration Brainstorm small (and smart) tweaks that make a big impact Observe your everyday routines to see where the space could better serve you Along the way, I remind you that true remodeling is more than just pretty finishes. You’re investing in your home, and you deserve both beauty and function. Let’s do this together. Your dream space shouldn’t just look good — it should function for you every single day! Let’s do this!  Next Steps: Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Happy Remodeling!  Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/   

Ever wondered what really happens after your remodel design is done? In this episode, I’m breaking down the order of operations for a renovation—from demo day to final inspections—so you can understand exactly what to expect once construction begins. As a designer and project manager, I’ve learned (often the hard way!) how important it is to know which trades come when, how long each phase takes, and why certain steps can’t happen out of order. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, a bathroom update, or a full home renovation, this episode walks you through the entire project timeline so you can stay organized, avoid costly mistakes, and communicate confidently with your contractors. You’ll learn: The full step-by-step remodel construction timeline Who comes into your home during each phase and what they’re doing Common scheduling pitfalls (and how to avoid them!) How to ask the right questions to keep your project running smoothly If you’re managing your own renovation or simply want to better understand the behind-the-scenes process, this episode will give you a clear roadmap from demo to done.   Next Steps: Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Happy Remodeling!  Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/ 

Budgets—the dreaded part of remodeling that no one wants to talk about, but everyone struggles with. In this episode of Remodels Made Easy, I’m breaking down how to keep your renovation costs from spiraling out of control. You’ll learn the five key steps to keep your budget on track—from knowing exactly what you can spend on materials, to prioritizing your “must-haves,” to tracking every selection so the numbers don’t sneak up on you. I’ll also share practical strategies for working with contractors, avoiding costly mistakes, and designing before you demo so you can cut stress and actually enjoy your remodel. If you’ve ever worried about your project snowballing into a financial headache, this episode is your guide to staying in control and creating a home you love without blowing your budget. Next Steps: Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Happy Remodeling!  Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/ 

In this episode, I’m walking you through the next step after creating your Pinterest board and gathering all that dreamy inspiration for your remodel. Now that you’ve got a vision and a direction, it’s time to move past the pretty pictures and get practical. I’ll share why layout and function have to come first, how to think through cabinetry and appliances, and the tools I recommend to help you map it all out. Then we’ll dive into selections—starting with focal points and countertops—and talk about how to pull everything together into a cohesive design that feels intentional, not overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt stuck between inspiration and actual decision-making, this episode will help you build a solid foundation so your remodel is beautiful and functional.   Next Steps: Join the Insiders List for weekly tips: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/insiders Join the FREE Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelsmadeeasy  Happy Remodeling!  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/ 

Struggling to define your design style for a kitchen remodel? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to use Pinterest as a powerful design tool—not just for inspiration, but to actually clarify your style, discover what you’re truly drawn to, and create a cohesive vision for your renovation. I’ll walk you through practical steps for building boards that capture both the overall feel you want and the specific elements (like lighting, layouts, or finishes) that inspire you. Plus, I’ll share tips for spotting patterns, avoiding decision fatigue, and balancing design trends with your own taste so your remodel feels timeless and personal. By the end, you’ll have a solid starting point and a clear anchor for making design decisions with confidence. Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/  Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/studioredinteriordesign/  Next Steps: Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Happy Remodeling!   

Renovations don’t have to turn into horror stories — but all too often, they do. In this episode, I’m sharing the three most common mistakes I see homeowners make that cause projects to spiral off track: not properly vetting contractors, skipping a budget buffer, and diving into demo without a clear plan. I’ll walk you through why these mistakes create so much stress (and wasted money) and how you can avoid them so your renovation stays on time, on budget, and as stress-free as possible. If you’ve ever worried that a remodel is destined to go sideways, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to prove otherwise.   Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/  Next Steps: Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Happy Remodeling!   

In today’s episode we are going to talk about how jumping into demolition before you’ve nailed down a design plan is the fastest way to guarantee stress, blown budgets, and contractor chaos. In this episode, I share why design must come before demo — and how to build a clear plan that keeps your remodel on track. You’ll learn the first three steps of smart planning: Function first — identify how your kitchen, bathroom, or home actually needs to work for you. Layout matters — decide what walls, plumbing, or appliances are moving before you start picking finishes. Selections made simple — organize the long list of materials, fixtures, and finishes so decisions don’t overwhelm you. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or whole home remodel, this episode gives you practical tools to avoid decision fatigue, stay on budget, and set yourself up for a smooth, stress-free renovation. Get ready to take notes!    Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/  Next Steps: Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Happy Remodeling! 

“Feeling overwhelmed by remodeling? How can you plan your dream home stress-free?” When you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or whole home, the first step is not calling a contractor — and it’s definitely not falling down the Pinterest mood board rabbit hole. In this episode, I walk you through the real starting point for a stress-free remodel: getting clear on your budget, your “why,” to get your project started on the right foot.  I share the hidden pitfalls of Googling “remodeling contractors near me” too early, why confusing bids happen, and how to avoid feeling overwhelmed by inconsistent renovation costs. Whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation, small bathroom remodel, or full home renovation, I’ll help you build a clear plan that makes comparing estimates easier, saves money, and keeps your remodel organized. From DIY planning tips to tackling decision fatigue, I’ll show you how to prioritize what matters most so you can create the dream home you’ve been imagining — without the budget nightmares. Get ready to take notes!    Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Podcast - www.mealplanningmadeeasy.com/podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/    Next Steps: Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Happy Remodeling!   

“What if your dream remodel could actually be stress-free?” “Are you prepared to manage contractors, budgets, and designs… or will your remodel run off the rails?” I’m Jen Orr, designer, project manager, and remodel specialist, and I created this podcast to make home remodels and renovations stress-free. Whether you’re remodeling the bathroom, planning a kitchen remodel, or tackling a whole home renovation, I’ll give you practical tools and insider tips to help you save money, design smarter, and avoid decision fatigue. I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed by home renovation ideas, endless Pinterest mood boards, or confusing advice from home improvement shows. That’s why I share real-life stories, lessons learned, and the three essentials that make every remodel smoother: budget, design, and project management. If you’re dreaming of a forever home, a family-friendly kitchen, or a cozy, inviting home that feels like a gathering place, this podcast will help you get there. Together, we’ll turn your home inspiration into a reality. Let’s make your remodel simple, organized, and beautiful — because your beautiful home is closer than you think. Get ready to take notes!    Get in Touch: E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/    Next Steps: Find me on Instagram and send me a photo of your project! I would love to see it! Or shoot me an e-mail!    Happy Remodeling! 

Do you want to update your home to reflect you and function better for your family? Are you stuck between wanting the home of your dreams and fearing cost, complexity, and the chaos of getting it? Do you know what you like, but the thought of pulling it all together and the what-ifs of renovating leave you feeling overwhelmed? I am so excited you're here. I am on a mission to help homeowners such as yourself finally have that functional beautiful home that fits your lifestyle and reflects your personality without the stress and without the regret. Hey, I'm Jen and with years of experience in the industry as designer, project manager and remodel specialist, I have seen it all and I am here to help you skip the overwhelm with functional home renovations that save you money. I get it, you want your home to be beautiful but more importantly functional. You have been making do with a home that is less than ideal and quite frankly frustrates you every single day. The poor layout, the outdated look, and most importantly, the lack of storage. I've been there, the binge watching of HGTV, the death scroll of Pinterest, pinning yet another kitchen layout or storage idea. But where do you even begin? I have learned that when done right, remodels don't have to be overwhelming and stressful. I help homeowners like you transform their outdated homes into timeless, functional, and welcoming spaces you'll love for decades the stress, overwhelm, or regret. If you're ready to finally have the a functional layout that flows naturally for you and your family, a do-it-once, do-it-right remodel that stays on time and on budget, then this podcast is for you. You'll get practical tools to plan smart, stay on budget, and love your home again. Pause that home improvement show because your dream home is closer than you think.   E-mail: Jen@studiored.homes Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioredinteriordesign/  Get the Remodel Selections Checklist: https://www.studioredinteriordesign.com/list  Already in the thick of a remodel and need help?  Schedule a consult here: https://studioredinteriordesign.hbportal.co/public/68cb0de5121f28002bceb88e Happy Remodeling!