Five women with beautiful homes share the renovation mistakes they wish they hadn't made (and exactly how to avoid them).

14 renovation mistakes to avoid, from women with cool homes

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Always check (twice) that your sofa can fit through the doors 

Share reference images with your tradespeople 

Be patient (it results in a better home) 

If you’re extending, plan the kitchen after you’ve seen the space IRL 

Don’t be a sheep – stick to your own style 

Prioritise the bare bones – then the add details 

Live in the space for six months before you paint 

From the lighting hack to invest in to the bathroom tap colour to avoid, this is everything you need to know.