Remodel or Rebuild? Vancouver’s 2025 Interior Design Dilemma
Living in Vancouver or on Vancouver Island means two things: gorgeous views and homes that sometimes feel… less than gorgeous.
Between leaky basements in East Van, dated kitchens in Kitsilano condos, or Port Alberni bungalows that still think it’s 1973, homeowners face the same burning question:
Do you renovate, rebuild, or just throw in a new sofa and call it a day?
If you’re tackling an interior design project, considering a major Vancouver renovation, or even daydreaming about a shiny new build, here’s the no-fluff breakdown.
Should you renovate your Vancouver home or condo?
Renovating keeps your home’s bones (and quirks) intact while upgrading kitchens, bathrooms, and layouts.
Cost-savvy updates: Renovations in Vancouver average $200–$400 per square foot, making them more affordable than new builds.
Condo makeovers: From small space styling to full kitchen redesigns, Vancouver condo renovations are often faster and less paperwork-heavy.
Heritage homes: In neighbourhoods like Mount Pleasant or Oak Bay, renos preserve charm while boosting function.
Photos Source: Pinterest.com
When does a Vancouver or Vancouver Island new build make sense?
Sometimes you need a fresh start.
Customization heaven: Build the layout you actually want instead of wrestling with a bad reno from 1986.
Energy efficiency: New builds meet BC Building Code 2025 standards - translation: lower bills, higher resale.
Future-proofing: Whether it’s a modern West Coast home in Ucluelet or a mid-century-inspired build in North Vancouver, new builds add long-term value.
What if you just want a stylish refresh?
Not ready for demolition dust? Try furnishing and styling upgrades.
Smart furnishings: Multifunctional pieces for small condos, cozy sectional sofas for family homes, or custom millwork for that perfect built-in vibe.
DIY projects: Paint, lighting swaps, and modular shelving are budget-friendly upgrades.
Vancouver interior design services: Working with a local designer (hello!) means curated furniture sourcing, layout planning, and a space that feels unmistakably yours.
Photo Source: Pinterest.com
How do you decide between reno, rebuild, or refresh?
Ask yourself:
Budget: $300k reno or $1.5M+ new build?
Timeline: 6–12 months for reno, 12–24 for new build.
Lifestyle: Love your neighbourhood but hate your kitchen? Reno. Want a clean slate? Rebuild. Just tired of looking at that sad sofa? Furnish.
FAQ
Q: How much does a Vancouver kitchen renovation cost in 2025?
Expect $60k–$120k+, depending on layout changes, finishes, and appliances.
Q: Can I renovate a small condo in Vancouver without permits?
Minor updates like painting or furnishing - yes. Structural or plumbing changes - no, permits required.
Q: What’s the resale value of a Vancouver renovation?
Kitchens and bathrooms return 70–80% of their cost at resale.
Photo Source: Pinterest.com
Whether you’re eyeing a full renovation, a shiny new build on Vancouver Island, or just upgrading your home furnishings in Vancouver, the right decision depends on your budget, timeline, and sanity level.
Whichever path you choose, don’t settle for “just okay.” Homes here deserve better - and so do you.
For kitchen-specific inspiration, check out our Vancouver Kitchen Renovation Guide for 2025.
