The Interior Designer’s Guide to a Realistic Renovation Timeline

If you’re planning a renovation, you’ve probably got a Pinterest board full of dream kitchens, a head full of ideas, and maybe even a spreadsheet or two. But what often gets overlooked is the timeline - how long it actually takes to go from idea to finished home. Spoiler alert: it’s usually longer than most people expect.

I’m all about keeping things real, so here’s a phase-by-phase guide to help you set expectations, avoid surprises, and hopefully enjoy the process (rather than feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending building site).

Every successful renovation starts long before the builders arrive on site. Getting the details right from the offset saves stress, time and money later on.

Phase 1: Planning & Design (6–12 weeks)

This is where all the magic begins. From the first chat with your designer (hello 👋) through to finalised layouts, moodboards, and specifications.

• Surveys & measurements: Allow a week or two just for measured surveys, especially if you need architects or structural input.

• Design development: This part is fun but can take time - refining layouts, choosing finishes, and getting sign-off.

• Pro tip: Decision-making bottlenecks are what drag this stage out. The more decisive you are, the quicker it goes!

  
  
  
  

Phase 2: Permissions & Paperwork (6–12 weeks, sometimes longer)

If your project needs planning permission, listed building consent, or building regs approval, build this into your timeline.

• Straightforward projects (like internal reconfigurations) may only need building regs sign-off.

• Extensions, exterior changes, or listed properties can easily add 3+ months just waiting for council approval.

• Pro tip: Apply early, even while design details are still being finalised - councils are rarely speedy.

  
  
  
  

Phase 3: Tendering & Contractor Selection (4–6 weeks)

This is where your drawings and specifications go out to builders for pricing. It takes time because:

• Builders are busy and can take 2–3 weeks just to return quotes.

• Site visits and follow-up questions can add another couple of weeks.

• Pro tip: Don’t just choose based on cost - availability and proven reliability are just as important.

Phase 4: Lead Times & Ordering (varies, 2–16 weeks)

This is the sneaky one most people don’t factor in. Even once your contractor is ready, materials and furnishings may not be.

• Kitchens: 10–16 weeks from order to delivery (especially bespoke).

• Tiles: Often 4–8 weeks, longer if imported.

• Furniture & lighting: 6–12 weeks isn’t unusual.

• Pro tip: Your designer will usually get key items ordered before work starts to avoid holding up trades down the line.

Phase 5: Construction & Fit-Out (8–24+ weeks)

The bit everyone dreads - dust, disruption, and the builder’s radio. Timescales vary massively depending on the scope:

• Small works (a single bathroom): 3-4 weeks.

• Kitchen + structural work: 12–16 weeks.

• Full house renovation: 6–12 months, sometimes more.

• Pro tip: Always add a buffer of at least 10–15%. Unexpected issues (dodgy electrics, rotten joists, “surprises” behind walls) are part of the game.

Phase 6: Snagging & Styling (2–4 weeks)

The finish line is in sight, but don’t underestimate this stage.

• Contractors will need time to come back for snags.

• Your designer will style, dress, and finalise details.

• Pro tip: Make sure snagging is complete before settling the final invoice - it’s the best leverage you’ll have!

So, how long in total?

For a typical UK home renovation (say, a kitchen extension or major reconfiguration), you’re looking at 6–12 months from first ideas to completion. A full house reno can be 12 months to 2+ years.

That might sound daunting, but knowing what to expect makes the process smoother - and trust me, the end result is always worth it.

Renovations aren’t instant - but when planned properly, they’re manageable and (dare I say it) even enjoyable. With a realistic timeline and the right team in place, you’ll not only get a home that looks beautiful, but one that’s functional and built to last.

👉 Thinking about starting your own renovation? I’d love to help make it stress-free. Get in touch here to chat about your project and see how we could work together.