Living Room Renovation Checklist

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Plan & Design

Hire a designer or architect

Find a professional to help with layout, structural plans, and material selections.

Get permits and approvals

Check local building codes. Structural and electrical work typically requires permits.

Set renovation budget ($10K-$40K)

Allocate funds across phases and keep 15-20% for contingencies. Get multiple contractor bids.

Create project timeline (1-3 months)

Sequence phases to avoid delays. Structural work comes first, finishing touches last.

Plan for temporary furniture and living

Move furniture to another room or storage. Set up a temporary living space during renovation.

Structural

Assess load-bearing walls

Have a structural engineer identify which walls are load-bearing before making any changes.

Demo walls for open floor plan

Remove non-load-bearing walls or prepare load-bearing walls for proper beam support.

Install support beams

Replace removed load-bearing walls with engineered beams (LVL or steel) per structural plans.

Frame new walls or niches

Build any new partition walls, archways, or recessed niches per the design plan.

Flooring

Remove old flooring

Tear out existing carpet, tile, or damaged flooring. Inspect subfloor for moisture or damage.

Install hardwood or engineered flooring

Lay new hardwood or engineered wood throughout. Acclimate materials 3-5 days before install.

Refinish existing hardwood floors

Sand, stain, and seal existing hardwood if it is structurally sound. Choose a stain color that complements your design.

Install new baseboards and trim

Add baseboards, shoe molding, and transition strips. Paint or stain to match the room design.

Walls & Ceilings

Install or repair drywall

Hang new drywall on framed walls, patch holes, and tape and mud all seams for a smooth finish.

Add crown molding

Install crown molding at the ceiling line for an elegant, finished look. Cope inside corners for tight joints.

Build custom built-in cabinetry

Design and install built-in bookshelves, entertainment centers, or window seats for storage and character.

Add wainscoting or wall paneling

Install wainscoting, shiplap, or raised panel details on accent walls or throughout the room.

Create coffered or tray ceiling

Add architectural detail overhead with a coffered grid or recessed tray ceiling for visual height.

Fireplace

Evaluate existing fireplace

Inspect the firebox, flue, and chimney. Determine if it needs structural repair or can be updated cosmetically.

Update fireplace surround

Replace the surround with natural stone, floor-to-ceiling tile, or marble for a modern focal point.

Install a new mantel

Add a wood beam mantel, carved stone shelf, or custom millwork piece to anchor the fireplace wall.

Convert to gas insert

Replace a wood-burning firebox with a gas insert for cleaner, more efficient heat and easier use.

Electrical & HVAC

Rewire the room

Run new circuits and update wiring to code. Essential before closing up walls after structural work.

Add recessed lighting throughout

Install can lights on a grid for even ambient light. Plan for 1 light per 4-6 sq ft of floor space.

Install wall sconces

Add sconces flanking the fireplace or along hallway walls for warm, layered lighting.

Add floor outlets for furniture islands

Install flush-mount floor outlets so lamps and devices reach floating furniture arrangements.

Run smart home and speaker wiring

Pre-wire for in-wall speakers, motorized shades, smart switches, and home automation systems.

Finishing

Paint the entire room

Apply primer and two coats of paint on walls and ceilings. Use eggshell for walls, semi-gloss for trim.

Install window treatments

Hang custom drapes, Roman shades, or motorized blinds. Mount rods 4-6 inches above the frame.

Furnish and style the room

Move in furniture, layer rugs, hang art, and add accessories. Arrange around the focal point.

Schedule final inspection

Book the building inspector to sign off on structural, electrical, and any permitted work.

Take after photos

Photograph the completed room from the same angles as your before shots. Document the transformation.

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