Why Hiring a Designer Too Late Can Cost You More

If you haven’t read my last post, When to Hire an Interior Designer — and Why It Makes All the Difference, start there. It explains why timing is everything when it comes to planning your renovation or new build.

This post dives into what happens when that timing is off — when a designer is brought in after decisions are made and construction is already underway. Spoiler: it almost always costs more in the end.

1. The True Cost of Late Decisions

Design affects everything — layout, lighting, finishes, and flow. When design decisions are made after construction begins, they often require rework. Moving plumbing, adding outlets, or shifting walls mid-build quickly adds up in both labour and materials.

I’ve seen homeowners in Toronto, Oakville, and Vaughan call me once their framing was complete, only to realize the lighting plan didn’t align with how they wanted to use the space. Adjusting wiring after drywall is installed isn’t just inconvenient — it’s expensive.

2. Why Contractors Need Design Decisions Early

Contractors are pricing based on what they know. If the design details aren’t defined at the start, the estimate isn’t accurate. When homeowners add new ideas late — a feature wall, custom tile border, or built-in shelving — those “small” details come with change orders, time delays, and extra cost.

“It’s not that projects go over budget — it’s that the budget wasn’t realistic because the details weren’t defined.”

The more decisions that shift mid-project, the more the costs shift too. Planning the design before the first hammer swings keeps the contractor’s pricing (and your peace of mind) stable.

3. The Domino Effect of Late Planning

Design is interconnected. One small decision often impacts five others.Change the vanity size? You may need new mirrors. New mirrors affect lighting placement. Adjust the lighting and suddenly the electrical plan needs updating.

Each adjustment triggers another — and when those choices happen after construction starts, every change becomes a line item on your invoice.

4. What Early Design Involvement Saves You

When a designer is involved early, you’re not just planning finishes — you’re planning flow, function, and budget.

Early design planning allows time to:

• Finalize layouts before permits

• Coordinate electrical and plumbing with design

• Source materials without rush or compromise

• Avoid rework and change orders

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“When you plan ahead, every trade knows what’s coming — and everyone’s working toward the same vision.”

In a well-planned renovation, trades move efficiently because all decisions are made upfront. That organization saves both time and money.

5. Real-World Example: The Cost of Waiting

A Toronto couple once called me after construction had already started. Their contractor was waiting on tile selections, and they were overwhelmed by choices. We worked together to create a cohesive look, but because certain items were backordered and some dimensions couldn’t change, compromises had to be made.

They loved the result — but later admitted they wished they’d reached out sooner. Had I been involved at the design stage, we could have adjusted the layout slightly to feature their dream tile and saved them both stress and extra cost.

6. How to Avoid Late-Stage Stress

You don’t have to hire a designer for full service right away — even a consultation early in your planning can make a huge difference.

Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Hire your designer before your contractor. They can help you plan layouts and finishes that align with your goals.

• Build in design time. Give yourself at least 4–6 weeks for design decisions before construction.

• Think about the details. Lighting, millwork, tile layouts — they all need forethought.

“Even one design consultation early on can save you thousands later.”

Hire a designer early in the process.

Hiring a designer late doesn’t just cost money — it costs options. Early planning gives you time to make confident decisions, explore alternatives, and build something truly cohesive.

“Hiring a designer early isn’t an expense — it’s protection for your investment.”

If you’re planning a renovation or new build in Toronto, Oakville, Vaughan, Etobicoke, or anywhere in the GTA, reach out before construction begins. A thoughtful design plan will save you from costly mistakes later — and help you love your home even more when it’s done.

Thanks for reading!

Lenore 🤍