Skip to main content

What Should My Remodeling Budget Be?


If you’ve been researching costs and feeling confused, you’re not alone. Let’s clear up the noise—and talk about what really affects your budget.


The Truth About Remodeling Costs

“How much does a remodel or home addition cost?”—It depends. But we can help you make sense of it.


Online articles, cost-per-square-foot calculators, and magazine averages often give widely different answers. That’s because every project is unique, and context matters.

Here's why:

  • Scope – Are we moving walls or updating finishes?
  • Size – More square feet doesn’t always mean more cost.
  • Quality – Tile from Home Depot vs. handmade Zellige tile has a big impact.
  • Location – Boulder is not Boise.

Bottom Line:

Rather than relying on national averages, our projects start with a discussion of your goals, your home, and your expectations, and tanslate that into design options and scope which will help us put together a realistic budget range. Many people find this approach useful to support decisions which match their goals.



Contact

Should I Use "Average Costs" or "Cost Per Square Foot"?

Let’s break down the two most common (and most misleading) approaches:

Approach Pros Cons

National Averages (e.g., $24K for a bathroom) Fast ballpark May be outdated or irrelevant to our region or your quality expectations.


Cost Per Square Foot (e.g., $300–$500/sf) Useful for new construction Can be wildly inaccurate for remodels due to

fixed costs (design, demo, site protection, etc.)


Our Take:

These numbers are best used as conversation starters, not decision-makers.




Let’s Talk Numbers — For Your Home

We’ve done modern additions, luxury kitchens, and budget-smart bathroom upgrades. The best budgets come from conversations, not calculators.


We’re happy to talk through your goals, ideas, and how your budget can support the results you want. No pressure, just a helpful starting point.

CONTACT US

We care about your privacy. Please don’t submit sensitive information such as social security numbers, credit card or bank information.
I agree that Lyon Design/Build can email and call me in response to my inquiry, as well as with tips and offers for similar services.