What Does Decorating and Renovating Include? | Complete 2025 Guide

If you’ve ever walked into someone’s freshly redone home and thought, Wow, this feels brand new, you’ve probably wondered—was it decorated or renovated?
Here’s the thing: decorating and renovating might sound similar, but they’re actually two very different stages of improving your home. I’ve gone through both, and trust me, the difference between a fresh coat of paint and tearing down a wall is massive!

In this guide, we’ll talk about what decorating and renovating actually include, step by step. I’ll also share real tips, cost insights, and lessons I learned the hard way—like why you should always paint after replacing the floors (not before, like I once did 😅).

So grab a coffee, sit back, and let’s walk through everything that goes into giving your home a new life.

Snippet-Ready Definition:

Decorating and renovating include everything from refreshing surfaces with paint, furniture, and décor to improving structure, wiring, and plumbing for better function and long-term comfort.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to guide homeowners through decorating and renovation with expert insights, practical steps, and honest advice — helping every project feel stress-free, stylish, and worth the investment.

Decorating vs. Renovating: What’s the Real Difference?

Let’s start with the basics. Decorating is all about looks—it’s what makes your space feel cozy, stylish, or vibrant. Think of it like giving your home a makeover with makeup and accessories. You’re not changing the bones, just dressing it up.

On the other hand, renovating means rolling up your sleeves and working on the actual structure. It’s about fixing, improving, or rebuilding parts of your home to make it function better. That could mean replacing old plumbing, tearing down a wall, or upgrading your flooring.

Here’s a quick example from my own life:
When I first moved into my old 1960s house, I decorated first—new curtains, paint, wall art, and cozy lighting. It looked amazing… for a few months. But soon, I realized the real issue: creaky floors and outdated wiring. That’s when renovation entered the picture.

In short:

• Decorating = appearance and style
• Renovating = structure, systems, and lasting improvements

And yes, renovation includes decorating as its final stage—because what’s the point of a brand-new kitchen if it doesn’t look beautiful too?

What Decorating Includes (The Fun Part!)

Decorating is the stage where creativity shines. It’s where you get to express your personality and style through colors, textures, and little details that make a house feel like home.

Cosmetic and Aesthetic Updates

Decorating often starts with a bucket of paint. Changing your wall color alone can transform a room’s energy—from peaceful neutrals to bold and dramatic tones.
You can also play with:

• Wallpaper, murals, or accent walls
• Stylish lighting (lamps, pendant lights, fairy lights)
• Decorative moldings or wainscoting

Here’s a tip from experience: Lighting changes everything. When I replaced my dull overhead bulbs with soft warm LEDs, my living room suddenly felt like a cozy café.

Furniture and Accessories

Decorating also includes choosing the right furniture pieces and arranging them smartly. It’s not about buying expensive stuff—it’s about harmony and comfort.
Think:

• Sofas that suit your space
• Coffee tables, rugs, and shelves that balance the layout
• Artwork, mirrors, or plants that add warmth

And don’t underestimate small changes like replacing cabinet handles or curtain rods—they can quietly elevate your space.

Layout and Styling

Sometimes, decorating means no shopping at all. Just rearranging your furniture to improve the flow can completely change how a room feels.
Try these simple moves:

• Pull furniture away from walls for a cozy vibe
• Group items in odd numbers (it looks more natural)
• Use rugs to define areas in open layouts

Decorating is about expression more than expense. You’re curating the mood of your home.

What Renovating Includes (The Heavy-Duty Work)

Now we move to the big stuff—renovation. This is where dust, blueprints, and permits come in. Renovating can range from a small kitchen upgrade to a full house transformation.

Structural and Layout Changes

Renovation usually starts with the bones of your house. That might include:

• Removing or adding non-load-bearing walls
• Creating an open-concept living area
• Converting attics or basements into usable rooms
• Expanding small bathrooms or kitchens

When I renovated my kitchen, removing one small wall made it feel twice as big—and yes, the sunlight suddenly hit every corner.

Plumbing, Electrical, and System Upgrades

Renovation also deals with what’s behind the walls. These are crucial for safety and long-term functionality:

• Rewiring old electrical circuits
• Updating plumbing and drainage
• Replacing HVAC or insulation systems
• Adding new windows or doors for better energy efficiency

It’s not glamorous, but trust me—upgrading your systems saves money down the line.

Surface & Finish Replacements

This is where new flooring, ceilings, and walls come into play. Whether you’re installing hardwood floors, tiles, or laminate, it’s part of renovating.
Here’s a quick checklist:

• Fix or replace subfloors
• Install drywall or plaster walls
• Repaint after construction dust settles

Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations

These two areas usually eat up the biggest chunk of renovation budgets. Why? Because they involve plumbing, electricity, and design all together.
A proper renovation might include:

• New cabinets, countertops, sinks, and fixtures
• Better ventilation and waterproofing
• Tiling, backsplash, and lighting

Exterior and Energy Upgrades

Don’t forget the outside! Renovating may include exterior work such as:

• New siding or cladding
• Roof or window replacement
• Deck, patio, or landscape updates
• Solar panels or smart thermostats for energy savings

Renovation, in short, is about making your home safer, more comfortable, and future-proof.

Step-by-Step Home Renovation Checklist

If you’re planning your first big renovation, here’s the roadmap most experts recommend (and yes, I learned this order the hard way!):

1. Plan & Design: Set a clear vision, list priorities, and fix your budget.
2. Get Permits: Check local regulations—especially if you’re altering structure or plumbing.
3. Demolition: Remove old fixtures, flooring, or walls carefully.
4. Structural Work: Reinforce foundations or build new framing.
5. Rough-ins: Complete plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work before closing walls.
6. Walls & Floors: Install drywall, plaster, and flooring.
7. Fixtures & Fittings: Add cabinets, countertops, and lighting.
8. Painting & Decorating: Once dust settles, start decorating.
9. Final Inspection: Double-check everything before calling it done.

Pro tip: Always paint last. I once painted early and spent two days cleaning drywall dust off freshly coated walls!

Decorating and Renovating: Typical Costs

Let’s talk money—because whether it’s a small redecoration or a big renovation, budgeting right matters.

• Decorating costs usually range from $1,000–$5,000 per room, depending on materials and style choices.
• Renovation costs can vary widely—anywhere from $10,000–$100,000+ depending on scope, location, and labor.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Painting walls: $2–$5 per square foot
• New flooring: $8–$20 per square foot
• Bathroom remodel: $10,000–$25,000
• Kitchen renovation: $15,000–$50,000

Always add a 10–15% buffer for surprises. When I renovated my bathroom, a hidden leak added $2,000 I hadn’t planned for. Lesson learned: expect the unexpected!

The Right Order: How to Remodel a Room

The order you work in can make or break your renovation timeline.
Here’s the logical flow most professionals recommend:

1. Structural changes first (walls, wiring, plumbing)
2. Then flooring, ceilings, and walls
3. Painting and decorating last

Never start decorating before your heavy work is complete—it’s like frosting a cake before baking it.

Home Renovation Checklist Room by Room

Each room has its own rhythm and focus:

Kitchen

Prioritize layout. Consider the “work triangle” between the sink, stove, and refrigerator for easy movement.

Bathroom

Focus on waterproofing, ventilation, and storage. A heated towel rack was one of my best small upgrades!

Living Room & Bedroom

Here’s where style shines. Use lighting layers—ceiling, floor, and table lamps—to control ambiance.

Exterior

Even small changes like painting the front door or adding planters can refresh your home’s curb appeal.

Renovation vs Remodel: What’s the Difference?

People mix these up all the time.

• Renovation = improving existing structure or finishes (e.g., new tiles, fresh wiring).
• Remodel = changing layout or purpose (e.g., turning a garage into a home gym).

Remodeling often costs more but gives more dramatic results. Renovation, meanwhile, refreshes what you already have.

Home Remodeling Ideas on a Budget

You don’t need a huge budget to transform your home. Here are some smart, affordable ideas:

• Repaint instead of rebuild.
• Replace cabinet doors instead of full cabinets.
• Upgrade lighting and handles—it’s cheap but powerful.
• Try peel-and-stick backsplash or wallpaper.
• Refinish old floors instead of installing new ones.

Small updates can make a big impact—like painting window trims black for a modern edge.

Remodeling Checklist for Contractors

If you’re hiring a contractor, here’s what to double-check before signing anything:

• Verify their license and insurance.
• Ask for references and photos of past work.
• Request itemized quotes—no hidden fees!
• Set a clear timeline and penalties for delays.
• Visit during workdays to track progress.

Good communication is half the project. A contractor who listens saves you headaches later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made a few of these myself (and wish someone had told me sooner):

• Skipping the plan: You’ll spend more and regret choices later.
• Decorating before fixing structural issues: It’s a waste of money.
• Hiring based on the lowest quote: Cheap isn’t always better.
• Ignoring permits: It can cause legal trouble later.
• Forgetting natural light: A bright room always feels larger and more welcoming.

Expert Tips and Uncommon Ideas

Here’s where the magic happens. After multiple projects, these are my favorite lessons:

• Create a mood board before you start—it keeps your style consistent.
• Use 3D design tools to visualize your space.
• Think long-term—choose timeless styles over trends.
• Reuse materials like wood or tiles to save money and stay sustainable.
• Don’t skip on ventilation; it affects comfort more than you think.

One of my proudest DIY hacks was refinishing my wooden dining table instead of buying a new one. It cost me $60 and a weekend—and it’s now the heart of my home.

How Decorating Completes the Renovation Journey

Once all the dust settles, decorating is where you breathe life back into your home. This stage lets you personalize every corner—hang photos, pick curtains, and choose textures that feel “you.”

Decorating completes the story that renovation starts. It’s that final layer of love and personality. My favorite moment? Adding plants. They instantly make every space feel alive and peaceful.

Comparison Table: Decorating vs. Renovating

Aspect	Decorating	Renovating
Focus	Aesthetic updates and surface changes	Structural, functional, and system improvements
Examples	Painting, adding furniture, new lighting	Replacing flooring, plumbing, wiring, or walls
Cost Range	$1,000 – $5,000 per room	$10,000 – $100,000+ (depends on scale)
Timeline	1–2 weeks	1–6 months (based on project)
DIY Friendly	Often DIY-friendly	Usually needs professional help
Permits Required	Rarely	Commonly required

Step-by-Step Home Renovation Guide

1. Plan & Budget: Define scope, design goals, and total cost.
2. Get Permits: Ensure compliance with local building codes.
3. Demolition: Remove outdated materials or damaged parts.
4. Structural Work: Fix or modify walls, floors, and roofing.
5. Install Systems: Plumbing, wiring, HVAC upgrades.
6. Finishes & Fixtures: Paint, flooring, cabinets, lighting.
7. Decorate: Add décor, furniture, and personal touches.
8. Final Check: Inspect everything for safety and quality.

FAQs

Q1: What can’t a landlord do in Alaska?

They can’t renovate or enter without proper notice and consent. Always check your local landlord-tenant laws.

Q2: Can you renovate a house that you are renting?

Usually not without written permission. Simple decorating (like curtains or paint) is fine if the lease allows it.

Q3: Can you remodel a house while living in it?

Yes, but expect dust and noise. Plan in stages and seal off work areas.

Q4: How often should a landlord do renovations?

Typically every 10–15 years, depending on wear, tenant feedback, and safety standards.

Q5: Is decorating part of renovation or a separate process?

Decorating often follows renovation—it’s the final touch that completes the transformation.

Conclusion

So, what does decorating and renovating include?
Everything from the first nail to the final candle. Decorating makes your space beautiful, and renovating makes it better.

Both go hand-in-hand—you can’t have a lasting renovation without thoughtful decorating, and great decorating won’t fix bad structure.

If you’re about to start your own project, take your time. Plan smart, budget wisely, and don’t rush the fun part—making it yours.
Because at the end of the day, a well-renovated and beautifully decorated home isn’t just about looks—it’s about comfort, memories, and pride.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult qualified professionals before starting any decorating or renovation project to ensure safety, code compliance, and quality workmanship.