I'm a Serial Redecorator — Everything You Should Consider Before Beginning a Renovation

      Max Hurd is the Editor in Residence at Who What Wear UK and is based in London as an art director, tastemaker, interior stylist, and creative consultant. He collaborates with prestigious luxury brands such as Manolo Blahnik, Farfetch, Asprey, Cartier, H&M, and Patrón Tequila. His vibrant style—described as "Oscar Wilde meets Marie-Antoinette by way of a Brazilian bordello"—enables him to write, curate, and create in the realms of interiors and culture.

      Getting started on any project is a challenge. Take writing, for example; gazing at a blank page can feel like staring into an abyss. Too often, the endless opportunities end before they can even turn into real options. It's astonishing how much I can accomplish in a day just to evade the daunting task of facing that stark white page. Procrastination has become a trick I use to complete tasks I’ve been postponing. With just a Word document open, suddenly I find myself away from my desk, folding last week's laundry.

      The same can apply to decorating. The thought of initiating a renovation, regardless of how minor, can be so intimidating that "temporary" arrangements, like a sofa or blinds, linger much longer than intended. Before you realize it, "just for now" has stretched into forever.

      That said, taking your time with decorating is certainly wise. Rushed decisions can lead to costly regrets. However, don't let the fear of making a mistake hinder the creation of a special place for yourself. So, where should you start?

      How to Renovate Like a Pro, According to an Interiors Expert

      1. **Sharing Is Caring**

      First, get excited! Whether it's a complete overhaul or just a quick paint touch-up, transform that fear into fun. If possible, involve some trusted friends for guidance. It doesn’t need to be a formal setup—just talk to people whose style you admire and exchange ideas. Consider creating a WhatsApp group with like-minded individuals to share both practical and whimsical renovation thoughts.

      I have a group chat called Reno & Brunch Divas (I know, just bear with me—even the most creative have their limits), where two friends and I discuss increasingly outrageous design plans. While some suggestions may never materialize, others have and will shortly. The accountability of sharing your ideas and receiving feedback is invaluable.

      2. **Send Yourself a Save the Date**

      Set a deadline for your project, a date by which it must be completed. But this can’t be a random date; there should be a reason behind it. For me, it was a scheduled photoshoot for a magazine which pushed me to prepare my home for its big reveal.

      While mine is a specific reason, perhaps you have a family gathering coming up, your birthday approaching, or friends visiting for a housewarming. Just like the WhatsApp group keeps you accountable, an established deadline ensures you can't keep delaying. The positive side is that once you start, you’ll have something to finish. So, identify your motivation and start planning.

      3. **Invest in the Best or You’ll Never Rest**

      Now, for the practical aspects. Be prepared for the financial implications. If you’re undertaking a full renovation, it’s essential to do it right the first time, which often requires spending. Cutting corners might seem like a shortcut, but it likely leads to more hassle down the road. I often remind friends and clients (and myself in moments of buyer's remorse) that your home is likely your most significant asset. Like any asset, it needs to be properly maintained to appreciate in value.

      Putting money into your home is akin to investing it; while the initial expense may be daunting, remember you’re making an investment that you actually live in. (I can picture my accountant cringing at this explanation.) Once you set a budget—aim for a number before starting—add an additional 10% for unexpected costs and then the fun begins.

      4. **Map It Out (and Don’t Be Sample-Shy!)**

      One of the most common questions I receive is, "How do I decorate with color?" My answer is always the same: be bold with your samples. Small, meticulously painted squares won’t give you an accurate sense of how a room will ultimately look. Go big with your samples and live with them for at least a week, observing how the light alters the color during different times of the day and how the hues work across rooms.

      Often, the most successful colors in my projects are those I least expected to work, yet they come alive once applied to the wall. Color requires space to express itself, which can't happen in tiny samples. To visualize your selections, create a document where you display all fabrics and paint colors in the order you envision using them in your home. This gives you a comprehensive view of your design.

      Remember, each room is a chapter in a broader narrative, and cohesive