So, you’re ready to remodel your living room. You’ve got a vision in your head, maybe a Pinterest board, and you’ve watched more home makeover shows than you can count. But before you dive in headfirst, let’s talk about the common mistakes people make when remodeling their living rooms—and how you can steer clear of them. Here at J Kruzan Construction & Remodeling in Lake Geneva, WI, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you get it right.

Let’s take a peek at some of the biggest misconceptions that can mess up your perfect remodel—and how to fix them without the headache.

Listen, we get it. It’s 2024, and the world of home design has got everyone buzzing about the latest trends. The problem? Sometimes those trends are not exactly… well, comfortable. Think about it: you might love the idea of sleek modern furniture and minimalistic aesthetics, but what good is a picture-perfect room if nobody wants to spend time in it?

How to Fix It

The trick is to balance style with comfort. Imagine those cozy Friday nights when you want to curl up on the couch with a movie. Now, picture that super-trendy—but stiff—sofa you almost bought. Not so great, right? The pros at J Kruzan Construction & Remodeling suggest keeping comfort as the core of your remodel. Choose furniture that you actually want to use, then layer in the trendy touches with things that are easy to swap out—like pillows, throws, and artwork. It’s all about creating a space where everyone wants to kick back and relax, not just stare from afar.

Lighting is one of the most overlooked parts of a living room remodel. And honestly, it’s a dealbreaker. You could have the most beautifully furnished room in Lake Geneva, WI, but if the lighting is off, it’s like taking a perfect selfie and then adding a weird filter—just ruins the whole vibe.

How to Fix It

Lighting can make your living room go from “meh” to “magnificent.” It’s not just about overhead lighting, though. You want layers. Think ambient lighting (like ceiling lights), task lighting (like reading lamps), and accent lighting (maybe some trendy LED strips behind the TV). In 2024, smart lighting is a game-changer. Imagine adjusting your lights with your voice while you sink into the couch—futuristic comfort at its best. Good lighting isn’t just about practicality; it’s about setting the mood and making every corner of your living room feel inviting.

Have you ever walked into a living room that looked beautiful but felt like a maze? Too much furniture, awkward layouts, or pieces that block the natural pathways—it’s a recipe for a clunky, uncomfortable space. Unfortunately, many remodels overlook the importance of flow.

How to Fix It

Think of flow as how easily you can move around the room. Living room remodel contractors like J Kruzan are pros at making sure everything fits without feeling cluttered. Picture yourself walking into the room. You should be able to move easily, with space between the couch, coffee table, and other furniture pieces. A good rule of thumb? Keep about 18 inches between seating and the coffee table, and leave clear pathways to enter and exit the space.

Pro Tip for 2024: Multifunctional furniture is having a moment. Ottomans that double as storage, sectional couches that can be moved around, or coffee tables that expand—all these can help create flexibility in how your space is used, ensuring that flow isn’t sacrificed for the sake of style.

A living room without proper storage is like a closet without shelves—chaos waiting to happen. You need places to stash those extra blankets, kids’ toys, board games, and everything else life throws at you. Skipping storage options is a common mistake that often leads to a cluttered, disorganized space.

How to Fix It

This is where living room remodel contractors can help you think creatively. Built-in shelves are a great way to add style and function to your space. We’re also seeing a rise in clever, hidden storage for 2024—think benches with compartments or cabinets that blend seamlessly into the walls. The key is to have enough storage that your living room looks neat but still feels lived-in. Trust us, the more storage you have, the more likely you are to keep things organized, and the happier you’ll be with your remodel in the long run.

We know DIY is tempting. TikTok and YouTube make it look so easy—just grab a hammer and some paint, and voila! Except, not really. Sometimes, homeowners dive into DIY projects they’re not equipped for, and that can lead to problems (read: costly mistakes). Sure, painting an accent wall can be fun, but do you really want to handle structural changes on your own?

How to Fix It

Know your strengths, but also know when to call in the pros. J Kruzan Construction & Remodeling is here in Lake Geneva, WI, to help you with the big stuff—like tearing down walls, installing new windows, or upgrading the lighting. Let’s be honest; there’s no shame in letting a professional take the reins. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your remodel is done correctly and safely? Priceless.

We all want a space that reflects our personality, but sometimes we forget to think ahead. Bright orange walls might seem like a bold choice, but are you going to love them in five years? Even more importantly, is a potential buyer going to love them?

How to Fix It

The best advice here is to personalize your living room in ways that are easy to change. Paint, pillows, and rugs are great ways to add color and personality without locking yourself (or a future buyer) into a particular look forever. A neutral backdrop means you can change the feel of your room whenever you feel like it, and it’ll still appeal to others if you decide to sell. We call it the “flexible canvas” approach—your living room is a blank canvas that you can dress up in different ways over time.

• Natural and Earthy Tones: The color trends for 2024 are all about warmth. Think earthy greens, muted browns, and subtle terracottas. They make your space feel cozy, grounded, and oh-so-inviting.
• Multi-Functional Zones: Living rooms today aren’t just for lounging. With more people working from home, create a multi-functional space that works as a living area and a cozy home office.
• Sustainable Materials: Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. Using reclaimed wood, recycled materials, and energy-efficient windows isn’t just good for the planet—it makes your home more valuable and unique.

Ultimately, the biggest mistake people make is trying to rush through a living room remodel without thinking through the details. Remodeling isn’t just about how the room looks—it’s about how it feels, how it works for your lifestyle, and how it evolves with your needs. Working with professional living room remodel contractors like J Kruzan Construction & Remodeling means you’ll avoid the pitfalls and end up with a space that’s just right for you and your family.

Ready to Create Your Perfect Living Room?

If you’re in Lake Geneva, WI, and ready to tackle a living room remodel, J Kruzan Construction & Remodeling is here to help. We specialize in crafting beautiful, comfortable spaces that make you want to stay awhile. From lighting to layout, we’ll help you every step of the way to make sure your remodel is a success. Give us a call today and let’s make your dream living room happen!