Working with a creative, experienced interior designer can be an interesting experience. However, if you haven’t used the services of said professional before, you may feel a bit intimidated. Whether you just need a few hours of consultation or help throughout the entire process, a decorator will fit your budget. Check out what to look for when working with a designer!
Typically, designers say that although many people love watching interior design shows, their growing popularity has made their job a bit more difficult. Thanks to the magic of television, interior decorators on the aforementioned shows complete complex projects despite tight deadlines and modest budgets, which are not realistic in the real world
Working with a designer is very rewarding, but it generates a lot of costs. Of course, projects vary. Consider what kind of budget you have at your disposal. If you already know how much you can spend, schedule an initial consultation with at least a few interior decorators. Ask them for a quote
Every interior decorator has their own unique tastes, quirks and business practices. To make sure he or she will deliver the project of your dreams, be sure to ask them for a portfolio. Talk to at least a few designers before you make your final decision. Remember, the more questions you ask, the better
Consultation with a designer can take the form of a face-to-face meeting, a phone call or an online meeting. Typically, these types of consultations are free. However, some designers charge a fee. So it is worth asking about it beforehand. During the meeting, watch the decorator’s portfolio, so you can check your favourite style and artistic sense. Find out what it’s like to work with him or her. Ask about business practices, such as preferred communication methods and payment methods. Bring along some photos or objects that you plan to use as inspiration for your design. Let the designer know your preferences and needs. At the end of the meeting, ask yourself if you are on the same wavelength. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to look for someone else.
Before you start working with a designer, sign a contract. Before you do that, read it carefully so that nothing surprises you. Make sure that it clearly defines the services and prices. Decorators charge in different ways. Depending on your needs and the scale of the project, they may combine different forms of payment. Many designers offer hourly fees. Ask if they include commuting, shopping and the like. Find out what expenses you will have to cover during the project
Some designers charge fixed fees for certain work. Remember that all details should be included in the contract. You may also be asked to make a down payment before you start working together. If you are on a tight budget, don’t assume that hiring a designer is out of reach. Many decorators will gladly agree to a few hours of consultation or help you find furnishings and decorations without straining your wallet.
If you’re having trouble determining what you want your dream interior to look like, collect your favorite photos. This way, the designer will know what you want. He or she will ask you about specific design points that resonate with you and use them as guidelines. Look for fabric samples, paint swatches and furniture catalogs. These materials are great sources of inspiration. Prepare a list of colors, themes and styles of furniture that you hate
Decide in advance what existing interior elements you want to keep. Don’t want to get rid of a Biedermeier sideboard or a majolica collection? Cooperation will go more smoothly if you share this information with the designer during the initial consultation and the first meeting on location. Decide which items you don’t want to give up.
Very rarely does the client like all of the designer’s suggestions. If the decorator suggests a piece of furniture or wall color that you don’t necessarily like, don’t say no right away. Think it through carefully before you make your final decision. Ask the designer why he or she thinks such a solution will work in your home interior. Maybe if you find out the reason, you will actually agree with him.
