Choosing the Right Interior Designer

An Interior Designer may sound like a luxury, but if executed correctly, this could be an investment that might save you time and money.

Whether you are redecorating, refurbishing or undergoing a complete revamp, it is imperative that you get the best advice you can.

So What is an Interior Designer?

An Interior designer is an accredited professional with the knowledge and ability to help you create aesthetically pleasing interior spaces for home, working or public environments. This can cover anything from paint selection and colour palettes, interior landscaping, lighting and furniture choices.

Searching for an Interior Designer

Important Questions to Ask Yourself

Before you begin the actual process of redecoration, you’ll need to ask yourself some questions to help focus your search and prioritise your options.

• What do you need an Interior Designer for?
• Is this a large or small project?
• What is your maximum budget? 
• How much responsibility do you want to take on yourself?

Where to Find the Perfect Interior Designer?

Magazines 

Look at your favourite interiors magazine. Many of the features will credit an interior designer or stylist that has come up with the looks and feel that are currently in vogue. For example, at ElleDecor you can find some inspiring design spaces along with contact details of the creators. 

Reviews and Referrals

If you have seen a look or design that you like and admire, then go ahead and ask! What do you have to lose? All you’re doing is complementing their aesthetic choices. With the rapid development of social media – especially Instagram – getting a recommendation has never been easier. Think of the digital world as your mood board,  but always get references and remember to be open-minded whilst still doing your due diligence! There might be an amazing new graduate who can replicate a look from the ‘World of Interiors’ at a price for your budget.

What to Look for in an Interior Designer

Qualifications

The British Interior Design Association (BIDA) has a list of accredited members along with a useful guide to the different qualifications. However, don’t stop there! Make sure that you are checking their reviews in detail and that testimonials are genuine. Looking at their body of work as a whole is just as important as looking at the first few reviews.

On the Same Page

You have to make sure that you are being listened to by your Interior Designer. Ensure that you look through the designer’s portfolio comprehensively to make sure they are able to deliver the look you’ve envisioned or whether they have achieved it previously for other clients. The execution of the final look will need to blend with your taste and make the statement you desire.

Working with Your Interior Designer

Important Questions

First off – write a list of exact questions. For example, what would their solutions be for any of your concerns? What do they offer as a follow-up package besides the usual snag list? Is the initial appraisal to be part of the deal and can you get a lockdown on the charges involved?

Contract Between Both Parties.

It’s imperative that you draw up a contract that requires each and every decision to be signed off by you both. Start with a mutual understanding of the concept, showing images, fabrics and a colour scheme that is agreed upon. Any Interior Designer should be able to produce a set of drawings for the project along with samples of actual materials. Once you have agreed upon a programme, it can be as simple as watching that original concept slowly take shape.

Choosing the right Interior Designer needs for you to be clear and precise about your vision. The fun part is communicating your hopes and ideas, checking out materials and fabrics and then exploring new options. Just remember that this can be a big financial commitment, so in-depth research is key to get the desired result and to create a harmonious working process throughout your property’s interior upgrade.