You can plan your dream renovation down to the penny, but you may still get caught off guard when prices change. Maybe it’s your tile supplier adding a tariff fee, or a favourite light fixture suddenly doubling in price. It’s frustrating, especially when you’ve done everything right.
Increasingly, we are seeing rising costs on everything – from upholstery to tiling.
The reality is that some costs are beyond your control – and we know how frustrating that can be. In this article, we’ll discuss how tariffs and price increases can affect your home design and how shopping locally can help. In our next article, we’ll walk through some strategies that we are using to deal with price increases.
The Impact of Tariffs on Construction Materials
Tariffs act like taxes on imported goods, and lately, they’ve been a major driver behind cost increases in everything from cabinetry to flooring.
· According to Canada ConstructConnect, new tariffs on lumber and appliances are already pushing up construction and renovation costs nationwide (source).
· The National Association of Home Builders reports that building material costs have climbed 34 percent since 2020 (source).
· Here in Canada, roughly 8 percent of total construction costs come directly from imported goods, meaning those tariffs make a noticeable difference on your invoice (source).
You know there have been price increases. How can shopping for Canadian goods help?
Why Buying from Canadian Makers Helps & Interior Designers Help
Local products mean fewer surprises (and fewer tariffs).
When you buy from Canadian brands and manufacturers, you’re not at the mercy of overseas supply chains, shipping delays or U.S. tariffs. You get reliable timelines, more transparent pricing, and materials that are less likely to double in cost mid-project. It’s the simplest way to maintain a stable budget and keep your project moving forward.
Your designer’s relationships in the design industry are your advantage.
A seasoned interior designer has built trusted relationships with suppliers, craftspeople, and trades across the country. That means better communication, priority pricing, and creative solutions when something’s out of stock.
At Elle Cherie Design, we don’t just order materials. We collaborate with the people who make them, and that makes a world of difference in both quality and cost.
An experienced designer knows how to be flexible.
A designer who understands the market knows which products are readily available, which are worth the wait, and which can be swapped without sacrificing style. We plan around every sort of challenge, from regional building codes and seasonal timelines to local material availability.
We have seen it all before and know how to adapt, so your renovation runs smoothly from concept to completion.
Elle Cherie Design – Calgary-Based and Client-Focused Interior Design
Tariffs may rise, materials may fluctuate, but your peace of mind shouldn’t.
At Elle Cherie Design, we believe great spaces begin with excellent planning. Based in Calgary, we specialize in full-service renovations that strike a balance to create a home that is both elegant and effortless to live in.
When the market shifts or materials fluctuate, you can trust that every choice has been made with intention. By working closely with builders, trades, and trusted Canadian makers, we bring clarity, confidence, and craftsmanship to every project.
If you’re planning a renovation in the Calgary area, let’s make sure your design (and your budget) can weather the unexpected. Book a discovery call with Elle Cherie Design today.