What Does an Interior Design Renovation or Remodel Cost? (And What to Expect at Each Level)

Let’s talk about it. Because if you’re thinking about starting a project, this is probably one of your first questions:

“What is this actually going to cost?”

It’s a fair question.

And while every project is different, there are ranges that can help you understand what’s realistic—before you get too far into the process.

First, A Quick Reality Check

There’s no one-size-fits-all number.

TRAY specializes in breaking projects down into these 3 categories and it helps us define each range

The cost of a project depends on:

• Scope (refresh, renovation, remodel)

• Size of the space

• Level of finish and materials

• Existing conditions

That said—most projects fall into general ranges.

And understanding those ranges early?

That’s what helps you make smarter decisions from the start.

Kitchen renovations come in all different scopes. While this kitchen project may look like it was a full remodel, it wasn't. When we define the scope clearly from the start, TRAY can deliver the "WOW" factor within any budget. Our process is solid and earning your trust is our number one goal.

Refresh Projects

(High impact. Lower investment. Faster turnaround.)

A refresh focuses on working with what you already have—while elevating the overall space.

Typical investment range:

$5,000 – $25,000+

Refreshes may include:

• Paint and color direction

• Lighting updates

• Furniture and layout refinement

• Styling and layering

• Select material updates

Best for:

Homes that feel “off” but don’t require construction.

TRAY POV:

Some of the most dramatic transformations happen here—without tearing anything apart.

Renovation Projects

(Meaningful change without full reconstruction)

A renovation updates key elements while maintaining the overall structure.

Typical investment range:

$25,000 – $100,000+

May include:

• Kitchen or bathroom updates

• Flooring replacement

• Cabinet refinishing or replacement

• Tile, countertops, fixtures

• Improved functionality within existing layout

Best for:

Spaces that need more than cosmetic updates—but don’t require structural change.

TRAY POV:

This is where many homes land. It’s the sweet spot between impact and investment.

Remodel Projects

(Full transformation)

A remodel reimagines the space entirely.

Typical investment range:

$100,000 – $300,000+

May include:

• Layout changes

• Moving walls

• Full kitchen or bath gut including moving plumbing

• Structural updates

• Whole-home transformations

Best for:

Homes that need to function differently—not just look different.

TRAY POV:

Powerful when needed—but not always the starting point.

What These Ranges Actually Mean

These aren’t hard limits.

They’re starting points.

You can:

• Spend less with a focused scope

• Spend more with higher-end materials and complexity

The goal isn’t to hit a number.

It’s to align your expectations with what’s possible.

Where TRAY Fits In

We work across all three levels:

• Thoughtful refreshes

• Strategic renovations

• Full remodels

But here’s the difference:

We don’t push you toward a bigger project.

We help you determine:

• What actually needs to change

• What can stay

• Where your investment will have the most impact

You Don’t Need to Have It All Figured Out

Most of our clients don’t come to us with a perfect plan.

They come with:

• A feeling that something isn’t working

• A space that needs to evolve

• A general sense of what they want

From there, we help define:

• The right scope

• A realistic range

• A plan that makes sense for your home and your budget

The Smartest Projects Start With Clarity

Not guesswork.

Not assumptions.

Just a clear understanding of:

• What you want

• What it might take

• And how to get there

If You’re Wondering Where Your Project Falls

That’s exactly where we come in.

We’ll help you define the right level of investment - and build a plan that aligns with it.

Start your project with TRAY