The Ideal Order for Selecting New Build Finishes

mona929
19 minutes ago
2 min read

Selecting finishes for your new build is one of the most exciting moments in creating a home that truly reflects you. From flooring and cabinetry to fixtures and paint colours, the order in which you make these decisions matters more than most people realise. Getting the sequence right keeps the process seamless, prevents delays, and ensures every detail works together beautifully. Here’s the finish-selection order we guide clients through to keep their build running smoothly.

Elegant kitchen with beige tiles, gold faucet, and white sink. A plant and a towel are on the marble countertop. Large window view.

1. Time-Sensitive Order Selections

Before anything else, the most time-sensitive elements must be chosen. These are usually the items with the longest lead times or the biggest impact on structural planning. Think plumbing fixtures, appliances, fireplaces, and key exterior details. Making these decisions upfront ensures contractors have the information they need early on, preventing costly rework or construction delays. It sets the foundation for everything that follows.

Sleek chrome kitchen faucet on dark countertop. Minimalist, modern setting with neutral tones and smooth surfaces. No text visible.

2. Core Interior Finishes

Once the essentials are locked in, we move on to the finishes that shape the overall look and feel of your home: flooring, cabinetry, countertops, backsplash materials, and lighting fixtures. These pieces must work together cohesively, so selecting them in a thoughtful sequence is key. Flooring and cabinetry anchor the palette, countertops and backsplash build harmony, and lighting ties the entire scheme together. This phase is where your interior identity truly begins to emerge.

Woman in a ribbed dress gestures at a white kitchen hood in a kitchen under construction. Boxes and materials are scattered around.

3. Furniture, Styling & Final Touches

After the main finishes are in place, it’s time to layer in the elements that bring personality and warmth: furniture, accessories, art, mirrors, and shower glass. These items enhance your home’s character and ensure each space feels complete. Because they rely so heavily on the earlier selections, deciding on them last allows the design to feel balanced, intentional, and beautifully cohesive.

Dining room with six gray chairs, a marble table, and a glass globe chandelier. White vase with greenery and a painting on the wall. Calm ambiance.

Bringing Your Vision Together

Choosing finishes for a new build is more than ticking boxes — it’s about crafting a home with flow, clarity, and timeless appeal. Following the right order prevents overwhelm, avoids costly mistakes, and ensures your project progresses smoothly from start to finish. With a guided approach, each decision supports the next, resulting in a home that feels harmonious and entirely your own.