06 - Managing Expectations with Lynne LaFontaine

Lynne was a banker and sales marketing professional until the age of 40 when a separation inspired her to change careers, buy a house and renovate it. It took 2 years to finish her first renovation and through the process she realized she didn’t enjoy laying floors and painting but she enjoyed designing the space. She now runs DesignFase.

In this podcast, Lynne talks about her first renovation, going back to school at 40 and how she got into the business by saying "yes". She shares loads of advice on setting expectations for your next project and as a trained cook she shares some kitchen design advice. She also introduces a new exciting project in the works called,  NextFase Design.

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When I got separated I had to redirect my career into another direction at 40 odd years old, I decided to buy a house in Manor Park and renovate it.
-- Lynne LaFontaine

Episode Timeline

• 2:30  Lynne's background and first renovation
• 6:00  Retaking grade 12 math at 42
• 7:00  Architectural design vs. Interior Design
• 10:00 Staging - Lynne's first gig in the business
• 18:30 Managing client expectations 
• 20:50 New home owners don't do this before your renovation!
• 27:00 Lynne on budget: how do you get the real budget?
• 30:00 What makes a good team?
• 41:00 Designing a functional kitchen
• 44:30 Lynne introduces her new design concept: Next Faze Homes
• 49:15 Lynne's last words of advice 

Episode Links

• Houzz
• Facebook