Master Your Finish Choices

Choosing finishes for your remodel or new build isn’t just about what looks good—it’s about making choices that work for your style, space, and lifestyle. Follow these steps to make confident, functional, and beautiful selections.

1. Define Your Vision First

• Gather inspiration: Pinterest boards, magazines, or showrooms

• Identify key adjectives: Modern, cozy, industrial, or classic

• Pick 2–3 “anchor pieces” to guide the rest: countertops, flooring, or cabinetry

Pro Tip: Take photos of rooms or items you love and create a digital mood board to keep your vision consistent.

2. Start With Function, Then Style

• List each space: kitchen, bathroom, living areas

• Identify usage: high-traffic, moisture-prone, or decorative

• Match materials to function first (durability, ease of cleaning), then layer in style

Pro Tip: Walk your home or space at different times of day to note where wear and tear or moisture might affect material choices.

3. Test Samples in the Space

• Collect small samples of flooring, countertop, paint, and tiles

• Place samples in the room at different times of day

• Observe:

  • Colors in natural vs. artificial light

  • Textures underfoot or to the touch

  • How finishes interact with each other

Pro Tip: Many stores and suppliers will provide free or inexpensive sample pieces—take advantage of this before committing.

4. Layer Textures & Contrast

• Pick a base material (wood floors, neutral walls, or main surfaces)

• Add contrast in other finishes: a matte countertop with glossy backsplash, smooth cabinetry with textured flooring

• Keep a balance: 2–3 materials per room is ideal

Pro Tip: Lay your samples next to each other on a table or floor to see how they “play together” before ordering large quantities.

5. Narrow Down Your Color Palette

• Choose a primary color for walls or cabinetry

• Pick secondary colors for counters, flooring, or tiles

• Add accent colors sparingly: hardware, fixtures, or backsplashes

• Test with a mood board or swatches taped to the walls

Pro Tip: Bring in small accessories like towels, rugs, or decor to see how accent colors will feel in the space.

6. Plan With Your General Contractor

• Review all selected finishes with your GC before ordering

• Ask:

  • Will this material hold up long-term?

  • Are there installation challenges?

  • Do these finishes coordinate with the overall plan?

Pro Tip: Schedule a meeting at the supplier or showroom with your GC—they can advise on durability, installation, and alternatives.

Ready to Choose Your Finishes?

Vision Construction helps you make smart finish selections that balance style, function, and durability. Contact us today to start planning your dream space!