The popularity of HGTV, Houzz and other home improvement outlets along with social media have increased our desire to achieve a magazine quality home. Most of us start out with a general idea of how we want our space to look once it is finished, however with all the different design trends and products available it can be difficult and time consuming to achieve. Before you give up on your dream home, you may want to consider hiring an interior designer. If you’re like me, the list of reasons not to hire a designer is the first thing to enter your mind. I can’t afford that! What if I don’t like what they come up with? How do I convey my vision to my designer? Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with lots of different designers and I am now convinced that interior designers are not just for the wealthy. Here are some things to keep in mind when considering hiring an interior designer.
Budget – Yes, hiring an interior designer will cost you some money up front. However, in the long run they are often able to save money for their clients by getting it done right the first time. I can’t tell you how much money I’ve spent painting and repainting rooms the wrong color. You go in thinking it’s pretty straightforward – off-white, beige or grey, yet once you step back it looks yellowy, or pinky, or blue or…just all wrong. More than one designer we work with have told us stories of clients purchasing furniture, only to have it delivered and find out it doesn’t fit in the room properly. Interior designers measure everything, and I mean EVERYTHING. They do this to ensure that everything fits and flows together properly. You will also want to thoroughly discuss your project budget with your designer so there are no surprises down the road.
Relationship – The relationship between an interior designer and a client is an intimate one. It has to be. The designer has to understand YOUR likes and YOUR dislikes. They need to understand how you will be using the space they are making over. Remember, they are working for YOU and will tailor the design to meet all of your needs. It is important that you and your designer are able to build a rapport with one another. Throughout the design process you will have to communicate back and forth often, and the designer will want to spend some time in your home, taking measurements etc. You have to be honest with your designer too. If you are afraid to speak your mind, you risk ending up with something you don’t love. The designer works for you, you aren’t going to hurt their feelings if you tell them you don’t love the color, or style of something they suggest.
Background – When choosing an interior designer, ask them to show you their portfolio. Find out what kind of projects they have done in the past and if they have any areas of specialty. Some designers prefer to focus on one area of the home such as kitchens and may be able to offer even more expertise in these areas than their competitors. A good designer will also have a list of references you can contact.
Professionals – While we all aspire to be a Joanna Gaines, the reality is many of us are not. It took me a lot of failed projects to realize I just don’t have what it takes. It’s okay, I’ve come to terms with it. An interior designer, is a professional. They do have the keen eye it takes to arrange a living room picture perfect. They know how to hang your artwork and organize your shelves. Good designers, make this process look easy but the truth is they spend hours, sometimes even days coordinating the fine details of your space. Their ability to create a haven in your home comes from years of experience, as well as continually keeping up with changing design trends.
Building or remodeling is a big deal. It takes a lot of time and a lot of hard earned dough. I think we are all striving to get the biggest bang for our buck. Not everyone needs an interior designer. However, a lot of us can benefit from a little guidance and fine tuning they have to offer. It is at least something to consider, especially if you are going for that Pinterest worthy home.
T&G wood ceiling and white washed shiplap create a cozy feel in this cabin retreat