Ah, renovations. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching your home get torn apart in the name of “improvement,” right? But before you dive headfirst into a world of tile samples and paint swatches, let’s take a minute to focus on a concept that often gets overlooked in the renovation frenzy: Simplicity. Specifically, how to figure out what you need versus what you want—without turning your home into a construction site for three years. Let’s build it simple, shall we?
Wants: The Home Makeover Fantasy
Let’s be honest—most of what we call “wants” in a renovation are those wild, head-in-the-clouds ideas that pop into our heads after one too many hours scrolling through Instagram. A spa bathroom with a soaking tub, a kitchen worthy of a Michelin-star chef, and an indoor-outdoor living room with floor-to-ceiling windows. Do these things look incredible? Absolutely. But do you need them? Mmm, probably not.
Wants are fun, flashy, and they tug at your heartstrings. But here’s the catch—they’re often complicated (and expensive). If you’ve ever watched one of those renovation shows, you’ll know: the more extravagant the design, the more likely something’s going to go hilariously wrong. Those shows never tell the truth anyway...
So, before you decide to knock out three walls to make space for that infinity pool, ask yourself: "Is this truly going to improve my life, or just make my bank account cry?"
Needs: The Unsung Heroes of Simplicity
Needs, on the other hand, aren’t glamorous. No one’s posting a TikTok about their new HVAC system. But needs are the backbone of any good renovation—they keep your house safe, functional, and, most importantly, standing.
When it comes down to it, a need is something that, if ignored, will cause a major headache (or disaster) later. Think of things like updating ancient plumbing before it bursts, fixing that leaky roof that’s been threatening to turn your living room into a swimming pool, or finally replacing the creaky old furnace that wheezes like a 90-year-old marathon runner.
The beauty of focusing on needs is that it’s straightforward. You’re not trying to outdo the latest home trend; you’re simply making your house work better. It’s the epitome of simplicity, and it’s much easier on the wallet, too.
How to Separate Want from Need: The Minimalist Approach
Let’s break it down. How do you know if something is a need or a want ? Here’s the simplest way to figure it out:
Can you live without it? If the answer is yes, it’s a want. No one needs a fireplace in their bedroom, but a functional heating system? Absolutely.
Is it improving the health or safety of your home? If it’s about keeping your home solid and secure, it’s a need. Rewiring the house so it doesn’t turn into a fireworks display is a need. Installing a second dishwasher? Not so much.
Does it simplify your life? Simplicity is the goal here. If a feature will streamline your day-to-day living, it’s worth considering. For example, upgrading your kitchen to make it more efficient is a smart investment. But turning your bathroom into a personal spa with mood lighting? That’s a want.
Why Simplicity Wins: Less Stress, More Satisfaction
The beauty of focusing on what you need is that it keeps everything simple. When you prioritize function over fancy, you cut down on stress, complexity, and, importantly, budget-busting surprises. A simple renovation that focuses on fixing what’s broken and upgrading what’s outdated will not only give you peace of mind, but also a home that’s functional and comfortable without the drama.
But simplicity doesn’t mean boring. You can still add little touches that make you happy—like cool functional storage solutions, new cabinet hardware, or maybe a really cool light fixture. These small, affordable upgrades can make a big difference without complicating your life (or draining your savings).
The Renovation Rule: Keep It Simple, Keep It Smart
Here’s the truth: Simplicity never goes out of style. While the latest trends may come and go, a well-functioning, straightforward home is always in fashion. When planning your renovation, take the minimalist route. Focus on what will improve your daily life and give you peace of mind—then, if there’s room in the budget, add a little flair with those wants.
Because at the end of the day, a home that works for you is better than a home that looks like it belongs on a magazine cover but stresses you or your bank account out.
So before you start swinging that sledgehammer, take a step back. Simplify. Keep the needs front and center, and the wants in the backseat. Your future self—and your wallet—will thank you.
Comments