Designing for the Seasons: Why August is the Best Time to Plan Your Next Remodeling Project

There’s something about August;  the warm golden light, the last backyard barbecues, and the quiet sense that change is just around the corner. While most people think of fall or spring as “remodeling season,” savvy homeowners know that August is actually one of the smartest times to start planning a home renovation.

Whether you’re dreaming of a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or a full design-build project on Chicago’s North Shore, August offers unique advantages that can set you up for success. In this post, we’ll share why August is the perfect month to begin planning, how it aligns with seasonal design trends, and what steps you can take now to ensure your project runs smoothly from concept to completion.

 The Calm Before the Holiday Rush

By August, summer vacations are wrapping up, kids are heading back to school, and schedules are starting to settle. It’s the ideal moment to focus on home improvement goals before the whirlwind of the holiday season.

Starting now gives you time to:

• Finalize your remodeling plans without rushing.
  
• Lock in your preferred remodeling contractor before their year end calendar fills up.
  
• Have designs completed and permits secured so work can begin when you’re ready.
  

At Design First Builders and DDK, we often see clients who plan in August enjoy a more relaxed process and greater flexibility with timelines.

 Seasonal Inspiration Is Everywhere

August is a transitional month, you’re still enjoying summer’s outdoor living but beginning to imagine cozy fall gatherings. That seasonal shift is a goldmine for design inspiration.

Think about:

• Warm-toned finishes that echo autumn colors.
  
• Outdoor-to-indoor flow for hosting in late summer.
  
• Upgrades that make your home more comfortable in cooler months.
  

Pro Tip: Visit our showrooms in Glenview, Wilmette and Itasa to explore kitchen cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures that match your seasonal vision.

 Perfect Timing for Contractor Scheduling

Fall is one of the busiest times for Chicago remodeling. By starting your planning in August, you can:

• Secure your ideal start date.
  
• Get ahead of material orders (avoiding shipping delays).
  
• Build in time for design revisions without derailing your project timeline.
  

Our design-build approach streamlines the process, ensuring designers, project managers, and trades are all working together from day one.

Align Your Project with Seasonal Sales

August often marks the start of end-of-summer sales on appliances, outdoor furniture, and even certain building materials. By starting your design now, you can make purchasing decisions while deals are still available, saving you money without compromising quality.

 Your Future Self Will Thank You

Starting in August means by the time next years holidays and  next summer rolls around, you’ll be enjoying your finished space;  not living in a construction zone. Imagine hosting Thanksgiving next year in your brand-new kitchen or lounging on your expanded deck next July.

August might not be the obvious choice for starting a home remodeling project, but that’s exactly what makes it so powerful. With the right timing, thoughtful design, and an experienced team like DDK and Design First Builders, you can turn this “in-between” month into the launchpad for your dream home.Ready to explore your options?
Visit us in Glenview, Wilmette, Itasca or contact our team today to schedule your design consultation.