Whether overhauling your entire home or sprucing up a few rooms, working with an interior designer is a wise investment. An experienced professional can help you make smart decisions, so your new spaces align with your vision, budget and long-term needs. If you've never worked with a designer before, here are my five top tips to help build the most productive relationship.
#1 Open Communication is Key
It is essential to communicate your goals, financial considerations and lifestyle upfront. This will help your designer understand what you're looking for and develop a customized plan. Don't be afraid to be specific — the more information they have, the better they'll be able to serve you. Beyond the elements of the project itself, let your designer know things about yourself and household.
#2 Flexibility Helps
It is helpful to have some ideas about what you want before meeting with a designer. It is also important to be open to suggestions based on the designer's years of experience, industry knowledge, understanding of space and return on investment. Additionally, there is always some element of the unknown when your project includes construction and supply chain; sometimes, you must be willing to pivot to comply with regulations and in the interest of timelines.
#3 Be Decisive
When working with a designer on a renovation, it's important to carefully consider your options but also realize that there are diminishing returns if you take too long to reach that single "perfect" decision. Take the advice of your designer, make your selections according to their timeline and feel confident that your space will look great. The last thing you want is to end up with a half-finished project because you just couldn't make up your mind about something.
#4 Maintain Realistic Expectations
Designers will help you achieve a version of the look and function you want and need within the boundaries of your budget, timeline and existing space. Be cognizant of what is financially and technically possible in the assessment and execution of your design plans. (Happily, however, we do often hear, "You're a magician!" even when we can't accomplish every single thing on a wish list.)
#5 Understand Your Designer's
Project Management Role
Whether you're doing a full home renovation or simply painting and having blinds installed, your designer will likely oversee a team of contractors to complete your project. This can be an invaluable resource in terms of expertise as well as time (and stress) management. Make sure you and your interior designer review each of the roles and responsibilities and any associated fees upfront so you'll have a super-productive working relationship.
WISHING YOU BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS IN 2023!
