Questions to Ask Yourself Before Beginning to Work With An Interior Designer
Transforming your home into a haven of rest and beauty can be an overwhelming idea for many people, but hiring an interior designer can make the process much smoother and more enjoyable. But before you dive headfirst into the world of interior design, there are a few important questions you should ask yourself to ensure that you are clear on what you want and need from your designer. I’ve listed below some of the major questions you’ll want to consider before you partner with an interior designer. Having an understanding of how you’re feeling will help you and your designer make the best decisions for your project!
What is my end goal?
The first step in any interior design project is to determine what your end goal is. Do you want your space to be more functional? Do you want it to look more modern or traditional? Do you want to improve the resale value of your home? These are all important questions to consider, as they will help guide your designer in creating a space that meets your specific needs and desires.What is my budget for the project?
Another important consideration is your budget for the project. You should have a clear understanding of how much you are willing and able to spend, and make sure to communicate this to your designer upfront. Keep in mind that there may be additional costs for design fees, shipping and delivery, product markup, and other unforeseen expenses, so it's a good idea to add a buffer of 10-15% to your budget.
3. How will I be financing this project?
You should also consider how you will be financing the project. Will you be paying for everything upfront, or will you be taking out a loan? If you plan to use financing from specific stores to take advantage of deals or promotions, make sure to let your designer know so that they can source products accordingly.
4. What is my timeline for this project?
Having a clear timeline for your project is important, especially if you are working towards a specific deadline. Let your designer know if there are any major events coming up by which you want everything to be updated and installed. You should also decide whether you want to complete the project all at once or in phases, as this will impact the timeline.
5. What other support will I need to complete this project?
Finally, consider what other support you may need to complete your project. Your designer can work in partnership with other trades such as architects, general contractors, electricians, and plumbers, but it's important to know who you need to reach out to and who to talk to first.
By asking yourself these important questions, you can ensure that you are well-prepared to begin working with an interior designer. Keep in mind that if you're not quite sure how to answer these questions, your designer can guide you through the process and help you make the best decisions for your project.
If you’re not sure how to start figuring this out, or you need some guidance on how to make these decisions, let us know! We would be happy to guide you through the process and help you gain confidence to get started!