When you’re remodeling your home, the choices can feel endless – tile, flooring, lighting, hardware, paint, cabinetry, and more. At Tabor Design Build, our interior designers work hand-in-hand with homeowners throughout the DMV area to guide them through the selection process and bring their vision to life.
If you’re starting a renovation this year, here are our top 10 interior designer-approved selection tips to help you choose with confidence and create a home that reflects your style and fits your life.
1. Trust Your Instincts
If you’re consistently drawn to a specific color palette, texture, or pattern, lean into that. Your gut often knows what feels right. Design is deeply personal – if something makes you smile, it’s worth considering.
2. Start with a Clear Vision
Before diving into individual selections, think about the overall style and feeling you want your home to evoke. Is it modern and streamlined? Cozy and traditional? Light and coastal? Use this as your north star when making decisions – it’ll help everything feel cohesive.
3. Gather Inspiration Early
Create a digital mood board or a physical binder of rooms, materials, and finishes you love. Platforms like Pinterest or Houzz are great for this. Share your favorites with your interior designer – it gives us a window into your style and helps guide decisions more efficiently.
4. Define Your Priorities
Every home has a budget. List the top 3-5 features or finishes that matter most to you. Maybe it’s a statement kitchen backsplash or luxury lighting in the entryway. Knowing where you don’t want to compromise makes it easier to stay on track in other areas.
5. Strategically Splurge
Want a wow-factor primary bath but need to keep costs in check elsewhere? You can absolutely mix high and low. Splurge on focal areas – like kitchens, powder rooms, or main living spaces – and scale back with smart, budget-friendly choices in guest baths, laundry rooms, or secondary bedrooms.
6. Explore Exclusive & In-House Brands
Many showrooms and suppliers offer in-house brands that deliver great style at lower price points. These can include limited finishes or configurations but often provide significant savings without sacrificing quality. Ask your designer to help you identify these hidden gems.
7. Know the Lead Times
In 2025, lead times can still vary widely depending on the product and manufacturer. Before you fall in love with a specific tile or light fixture, ask about availability. Choosing selections that align with your project timeline helps avoid frustrating delays down the line.
8. Get Help with Paint Colors
Paint can change dramatically depending on lighting and adjacent finishes. If you’re unsure, ask your designer for a color consultation. A professional eye can help you choose shades that work beautifully together and achieve the mood you’re after – whether it’s calm, bold, or bright.
9. Speak Up If Something Feels Off
The selection process can feel overwhelming—and that’s normal! If something doesn’t feel right, say so. Communication is key. We’re here to collaborate and make sure you’re 100% comfortable with your decisions.
10. Work with a Design-Build Team You Trust
Ultimately, the most important selection you make is who you choose to guide your remodel. At Tabor Design Build, our integrated design-build approach means your designer, architect, and builder all work together as one team—making the selection process smoother, more enjoyable, and aligned with your goals.
Ready to Make Selections You’ll Love for Years to Come?
Let Tabor help you create a home that reflects your personality, supports your lifestyle, and makes everyday living more beautiful. Contact us today to get started on your next remodel!
