Choosing Finishes That Last: How to Avoid Costly Mistakes

When it comes to designing or renovating a home, one of the most important, and often overwhelming stages is selecting finishes. Tiles, benchtops, flooring, hardware… every choice has a big impact on how your home looks, feels, and functions.

It’s easy to be drawn in by what looks beautiful on the showroom floor or what’s trending on Instagram, but without the right guidance, those decisions can quickly turn into costly mistakes.

Here are some of the biggest factors I help my clients consider when choosing finishes:

1. Don’t choose aesthetics over durability

It’s natural to fall in love with a material because of how it looks, but if it won’t withstand the realities of everyday life, it won’t serve you for long.

For example, soft stones like marble are beautiful but prone to staining and etching. In a busy family kitchen, that can lead to frustration and regret. A more durable option, like quartzite or engineered stone, can deliver a similar aesthetic with far greater resilience.

Tip: Always ask suppliers how durable a material really is. Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas demand finishes that can stand up to use.

2. Understand the maintenance involved

Every finish comes with care requirements, and what works for one household may not work for another.

Living finish tapware, for example, naturally patinas over time, which can add character but isn’t for everyone. Timber flooring is warm and timeless but might need refinishing over the years, while engineered or hybrid flooring offer a similar look with less upkeep.

Tip: Be honest about how much time and effort you want to put into maintaining your finishes. The right choice balances beauty with practicality.

3. Avoid chasing trends

It’s tempting to choose the “colour of the year” or the latest tile shape you’ve seen online, but finishes are long-term decisions. A trend that feels fresh today can quickly date a space.

Instead, I recommend starting with a timeless, neutral base that will last for years, and layering personality through styling, furniture, or smaller details that are easier to change. If you absolutely love colour, definitely use it, but make sure it is something you love and get some expert advice to ensure you get it right.

Tip: Ask yourself, “Will I still love this in ten years?” If the answer is uncertain, step back and reconsider.

4. Think about the bigger picture

Finishes shouldn’t be chosen in isolation. What looks good as a sample might clash with your cabinetry, or a tile pattern might overwhelm a small space.

That’s why I always consider the whole scheme together, ensuring every finish works harmoniously with the others to create a cohesive, timeless result.

Tip: Gather all your samples in one place and view them together in natural light. You’ll quickly see what feels balanced and what doesn’t.

The Value of Expert Guidance

Choosing finishes is one of the areas where having a designer makes the biggest difference. I not only help clients avoid costly mistakes, but also ensure their selections feel timeless, functional, and uniquely theirs.

The right finishes don’t just elevate a home visually, they make it easier to live in, easier to maintain, and more valuable over time.

If you’re planning a renovation or new build and want to feel confident in your decisions, a design consult or full-service package can help you make the right choices from the very beginning.

See you in the next dispatch,

Sam x