- Joanna Gaines reveals show secrets
- Creative budget solutions for renovations
- Tips for cost-effective home upgrades
Popular designer Joanna Gaines (46) recently revealed some surprising facts about the renovation show 'Fixer Upper'. It's well known that reality TV doesn't always show the whole truth, but Gaines' revelations shed new light on the show.
Of particular note is the fact that the house purchase in the show is often staged, while the renovation results are largely real. This means that viewers can actually buy a house from the show, even if the purchase decisions shown are not always real.
Joanna Gaines reveals 'Fixer Upper' secrets
Joanna Gaines has revealed a secret that might surprise many fans of the show. "At times, we only work on rooms that are of priority to our clients and that work within their budget. Some homeowners want to finish off their other rooms on their own since it is mainly cosmetic (paint and carpet)", said Joanna Gaines on 'Apartment Therapy'.
This approach is typical of many interior design firms that offer budget-friendly options.
Creative budget solutions for renovations
Although the budget is not always sufficient for a complete home renovation, Joanna Gaines often works with her clients beyond the show to make their home dreams come true.
"Other times, we finish the spaces for them [the clients] after the reveal, and this is separate from the budget shown for TV," explains Joanna Gaines. The TV station itself does not contribute to the overall budget, which means that the homeowners have to finance the renovation with their own money. Nevertheless, the producers can occasionally pay for some final details.
Tips for cost-effective home upgrades
For those who have already exhausted their renovation budget, Joanna Gaines has some valuable tips for making the most of your money. She emphasizes that small changes can make a big difference.
"Think about how you can play around with dimension, color, and texture — like incorporating seasonal accent pillows or a new throw blanket, or simply adding a new vase with large, fresh-cut stems to your cocktail table. It's often those small additions that become big shifts in how we feel about our homes," Joanna Gaines explains to 'Elle Decor'. Such cosmetic upgrades don't have to be expensive and can still add a personal touch to the interior.