10 Common Design Mistakes in Home Renovations (And How to Avoid Them)
Home renovations can transform the way you live — but they can also become stressful, expensive, and disappointing if poor design decisions are made early on. At Draw & Plan, we regularly see homeowners spending thousands fixing problems that could have been avoided with better planning and professional drawings.
Here are the 10 most common renovation design mistakes we see — and how to avoid them.
1. Not Having a Clear Brief
Many projects begin with a vague idea: “We want more space” or “We want a nicer kitchen.” Without a clear design brief, layouts become reactive and inefficient.
Avoid it:
Define what success looks like:
How many bedrooms?
How much storage?
What’s more important: light, layout or resale value?
A written brief helps your designer create a scheme that actually meets your needs.
2. Designing Without Measured Drawings
Using estate agent plans or old drawings is one of the biggest causes of construction errors.
Walls are in the wrong place. Ceilings are lower than expected. Windows don’t line up.
Avoid it:
Always start with a measured survey. Every good planning and building control drawing should be based on real site dimensions.
3. Prioritising Looks Over Layout
Pinterest and Instagram focus on finishes, but good homes are built around flow and function.
A beautiful kitchen is useless if you can’t open the dishwasher properly or if the dining table blocks circulation.
Avoid it:
Design the layout first — then apply the finishes.
4. Not Designing Enough Storage
This is one of the biggest regrets homeowners have after moving back in.
Avoid it:
Every room should include:
Built-in storage
Utility space
Hidden cupboards
Good architects design storage into walls, stairs, and roof voids.
5. Poor Natural Light Strategy
Many extensions block light instead of increasing it.
Avoid it:
Use:
Rooflights
Sliding doors
Borrowed light through internal glazing
Light-coloured finishes
Light should be designed, not added at the end.
6. Ignoring Building Regulations Early
Planning approval does not mean the design is buildable.
Common failures:
Stairs too steep
Windows too small for escape
Poor insulation zones
Fire separation missing
Avoid it:
Have building regulations drawings prepared before construction starts — not halfway through.
7. Forgetting About Services
Boilers, pipes, electrics and drainage are often left until late — which leads to boxed-in ducts and awkward cupboards.
Avoid it:
Design:
Boiler and plant space
Drainage routes
Electrical zones
at the drawing stage.
8. Underestimating Structural Changes
Open-plan layouts and large extensions require beams, posts and foundations.
Avoid it:
Have a structural engineer involved early so layouts are realistic.
9. Not Thinking About Resale
Even if you’re not moving now, future buyers care about:
Bedroom count
Bathroom numbers
Storage
Parking
Avoid it:
Design homes that work for today and tomorrow.
10. Using Builders Instead of Designers for Layouts
Builders are experts at building — not designing.
They will follow instructions, but they don’t optimise space, daylight or flow.
Avoid it:
Use professional architectural drawings before any pricing or construction.
Why Professional Drawings Save Money
Every design error on paper saves thousands on site.
At Draw & Plan we create:
Measured surveys
Planning drawings
Building regulations drawings
Technical layouts for contractors
So you don’t have to guess.
Thinking About Renovating?
If you’re planning an extension, loft conversion, or reconfiguration, professional drawings are the smartest first step.
Book a consultation at www.drawandplan.com
We design it right before it gets built.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Always consult relevant professionals and local authorities before undertaking any development or change of use.
