Tip of the Month - Need Interior Design?...Seek Professional Help

So, you're ready to start on your interior project but you realize that you need a little help. The shows like those on HGTV sometime over simplify the process of interior design. True enough that this programming builds excitement for the whole idea of interior design. And, yes there are many things homeowners can do on their own. But, interior design is a discipline as with any other profession. A good designer is more that simply a person with a "knack" for decorating. In fact, a professional designer will not only earn their fee but can also save the homeowners money in the long run.

One way designer can save money is by getting the job done right the first time. Designers will work off a grand plan rather than piece meal a room together through a disjointed series of impulse buys and poor decisions.

Experienced Designers know where to shop. Selecting materials for interior projects is a major facet of most Designer's repertoire. Non-design folks can waste a lot of time searching stores or browsing the web for items a Designer can source in a much shorter time frame.

Designers also have access to wholesale showrooms. This is a whole new venue that is not available to most people outside the trade.

Finally, Designers are trained to create a functional and quality environment. Their experience enables them to identify, research, and creatively resolve design issues. It's not simply furniture and finishes, but also the problem solving skills that focus on the clients needs and wants.

You may want to interview several people as you would for any other contract job. This may start with a phone call. The finalists from that group should then be interviewed face-to-face.

At the interview, ask to see their portfolio which will include past work, a list of experience, and client references. You should also have some standard questions that you have prepared in advance. You may want to inquire about how long that they have been in the business. Ask about their favorite type of project or design specialty and see if it jives with your interests and style.

You definitely need to know how the prospective Designer prefers to work with clients. Consider for yourself how involved you want to be in the process.

A very subjective element, yet probably one of the most important, is a matter of rapport. For many people, interior design can be a very personal matter. The personality and style of the designer will have a huge bearing on how both parties will be able to communicate and work together. There also needs to be a development of trust between the homeowner and the designer,

The interview processes should be two way. You should be expecting relevant questions from prospective designers. A designer will want to know who uses the particular space and how. He or she will also want to learn as much about your lifestyle as possible. A good designer must also be an excellent listener and be able to interpret your ideas in to reality. It will also be helpful to a prospective designer if you can provide a notebook or file of ideas and visions that you have for the area.

There also needs to be a "nuts and bolts" discussion on fees and terms as well as determining a realistic time frame for the project.