Renovation vs. Remodel: What’s the Difference?
Renovation refreshes what’s there (surfaces, fixtures) with little/no layout change. Remodel changes how the space works (layouts, walls, systems)—often with permits and engineering.
| Renovation (Refresh) | Remodel (Reconfigure) |
|---|---|
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Typical Scope New paint, flooring, trim; replace cabinets/vanities like-for-like; swap fixtures/appliances in same locations; minor electrical/lighting upgrades. |
Typical Scope Move/remove walls; expand footprints; re-route plumbing/HVAC/electrical; structural work; new layouts with custom cabinetry; window/door changes. |
|
Permits Often minimal; cosmetic updates may not require permits. (We’ll confirm.) |
Permits Usually required—especially for structural, plumbing, electrical, additions, or layout changes. We handle plans, permits, and inspections. |
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When to Choose Finishes are dated but the layout still works; you want a faster update with less disruption and a tighter budget. |
When to Choose The layout is cramped or non-functional; you need more space, accessibility upgrades, or a significant style/plan change. |
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Kitchen Examples New counters/backsplash, refinish or replace cabinets same layout, lighting upgrade, appliance swaps (same locations). Typical Austin ranges*: light refresh to partial updates. |
Kitchen Examples Convert closed kitchen to open concept, island with new plumbing/electrical, relocate appliances, structural beam install. Typical Austin ranges*: mid-range full remodels to upscale major remodels. |
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Bathroom Examples New vanity, tile, fixtures; replace tub/shower in same spot; better ventilation and lighting. |
Bathroom Examples Convert tub to curbless shower, move plumbing walls, enlarge primary bath, add steam/sauna, heated floors, custom storage. |
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Whole-Home Scenarios Broad finish refresh across rooms (paint, floors, trim, lighting) while keeping original layouts. |
Whole-Home Scenarios Reconfigure multiple rooms, open living/kitchen, move/resize bedrooms or baths, systems upgrades; may include additions/ADU/outdoor living. |
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Timelines Shorter—often measured in weeks. |
Timelines Longer—planning, permitting, ordering, and build phases; measured in months for larger scopes. |
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Budget Orientation* Entry to mid-range updates; fewer trades and behind-the-wall changes. |
Budget Orientation* Mid-range to upscale; structural, layout, and system changes add cost/complexity. |
*Rough Austin-area context: mid-range full kitchen remodels commonly land in the low-to-mid six figures; upscale major kitchens trend higher; mid-range baths typically span the mid-five to high-five figures, while luxury primary baths can exceed that; whole-home remodels are often priced per square foot with wide ranges based on scope/structural changes. Your project will be scoped and priced after design and selections.