Finding Calm in the Chaos: When Construction Doesn’t Go to Plan

It’s inevitable — your carefully designed down-to-the-quarter-inch remodel will come with some changes during construction. Trust me when I say, it’s just as heartbreaking for us as the interior designers as it is for the client. However, it doesn’t have to ruin the process or the end result.

In fact, these moments of pivot are more common than people think — and they often lead to creative problem-solving that makes the project even stronger.

Why Do Changes Happen?

Even with detailed plans, measured drawings, and thorough coordination, unexpected conditions in the field can throw a curveball. Maybe a structural beam is hidden behind a wall we thought could be removed, or the plumbing stack can’t be shifted as far as the drawings assumed, or an item on backorder now has an extended six-month lead time.

These surprises aren’t signs that something went wrong — they’re just part of working with existing conditions and ever-evolving construction timelines. And when they happen, having an involved interior design team that can adapt is everything.

How We Respond

We don’t see these changes as setbacks — we see them as opportunities to collaborate, refine, and problem-solve in real time. That means quickly reassessing the constraints, reworking drawings, and working with contractors and trades to keep the integrity of the design intact.

We’re your eyes and advocates throughout construction. Our goal is always to preserve the intention of the design — whether that means finding a clever workaround or shifting focus to another feature that enhances the space in a new way.

Site Photo - Determining what to do with the east wall after finding out we can not expose the brick

Managing Expectations and Staying Solution-Oriented

We always try to prep our clients with the reality that some adjustments may come up. The key is staying flexible, keeping the communication open, and trusting the process. We find that the best outcomes often come when everyone on the team — from homeowner to builder to designer — stays solution-oriented and communicative.

The Takeaway

Yes, your design might shift along the way to adapt to existing conditions, but together with your interior designer you can ensure there’s no compromise to the design integrity.  In the end, our job is to carry the vision through with care, creativity, and clarity — no matter what surprises the jobsite throws our way.