Questions to ask yourself before Hiring an Interior Designer

Embarking on a new design project can be both exciting and overwhelming. Hiring an Interior Designer can be pivotal to ensuring the finished product is cohesive, functional, and elevates your lifestyle. Before hiring an interior designer, take some time to ask yourself these important questions to make sure working with one is a good fit for you. Understanding a designer’s role and how they will support you will help you have a successful and fulfilling experience.

Question #1: Why do I want a designer?

Sounds obvious, but before you start your search for a designer, take a moment to reflect on your reasons for seeking their expertise. Are you simply seeking advice and validation from someone on your design ideas? Or do you want a designer who will create professional design concepts and knows how to manage and execute them efficiently? Understanding your goals will help you determine if you just need a consultation with a designer or want a designer as an active member of your project. There’s also nothing wrong with getting opinions from your friends if all you need is reassurance. The most important thing is knowing your needs and finding someone who can effectively deliver.

Question #2: Do I have clear goals for my home?

Similar to knowing your needs, having clear goals for your home is key to an effective relationship with an interior designer. For example, do you want a complete remodel or some simple changes to spruce up the room? Articulating your goals will allow the designer to utilize time better and tailor their approach to meet your needs. If you are still unsure about your goals, don’t be afraid to sit down with an Interior Designer, they may help you narrow down what is most important to you. Just be sure your goals are clearly communicated before the project begins.

Question #3: Do I know my style?

While an interior designer can help you define your style, having a general idea of what you love and dislike will save time, money and help your designers create concepts that speak to you. You can find your design style by gathering inspiration that showcases your preferred colors, patterns, aesthetics, and feeling. You can also browse Pinterest, home magazines, Instagram, or observe homes around you. Additionally, learning to give specific feedback on design concepts is valuable as your designers will adjust according to your direction.

Question #4: Am I willing to trust the process?

When working with a professional designer, you can expect that each space and detail is carefully considered. Be prepared to see the transformation unfold over time and avoid rushing decisions. While it may be faster to execute a project by hurrying through each phase, a designer will take the needed time to get it right. Trusting the process allows the designer to fine-tune every detail and deliver the result that exceeds your expectations.

Question #5: Am I willing to let my designer use their skills?

For a successful collaboration, finding a balance between your preferences and the designer’s expertise is essential. While every good designer bases their concepts on their client’s tastes, they will also present ideas that make a timeless design. If you tend to micromanage and restrict creative input, it might hinder the designer’s ability to serve as a valuable asset. Being open to suggestions and willing to explore new ideas will allow you to fully take advantage of the designer’s expertise and see the full potential of each space.

Question #6: What level of investment am I willing to make for my home?

Hiring an interior designer is an investment that brings long-lasting and rewarding outcomes. Be realistic about your budget and ensure your expectations align with what you’re willing to invest. While your designer will adhere to your budget and work to create solutions within your set parameters, it’s good to remember that higher quality brings higher costs. With a designer, you will get the most out of your investment as they will bring significant vendor discounts and design a home you will continually fall in love with for many years. Creating timeless and bespoke interiors takes time, effort, and resources, but the end result will be worth it. 

While we would love to be involved in all the interior design projects, we understand that not everyone chooses to work with an Interior Designer—and that’s okay! By asking yourself these questions, you’ll be better equipped to know if working with an Interior Designer is right for you.

You can also find helpful questions to ask an Interior Designer to determine if a specific design team is the right fit for you. As always, you’re welcome to contact our design team; we would love to get to know you and answer any questions you have.