Hiring an interior designer can feel like date night. Is it a suitable game? are you on the same page? How can you tell if your vision is the right fit? These are all common things to ask yourself before making a deposit - and bet - on someone who could be a lifelong friend. But if you've never hired interior designer services before and don't feel confident, turn the script over and interview them. Do not be shy. Now it's time to find out what this partnership will look like. We asked two top designers to share their best advice for finding the right fit the first time around. Here are a few questions to ask an interior designer before hiring one.
\What is your signature style?
It's essential to research and understand what you want and doesn't like. Look through the portfolios of different designers and decide what design style you like before you even start "interviewing" the interior designer. Your space will reflect your unique style, so make sure you and your designer feel together.
What are your references and certificates?
Make sure the people you hire have legitimate credentials and references. If your budget is tight, you might consider hiring an inexperienced interior designer, but be sure to check out references and sample work.
How do you structure your interior design projects?
How the designer structures a project shows time management and what is expected from the process. It's a good idea to start with an initial consultation and discuss costs before beginning the design process. The interior designer services must also provide the concept before the design details are finalized.
How do you charge?
Questions about costs relate directly to your budget. You need to know whether the designer charges a flat rate, works hourly, or charges a percentage of the project cost. If you frequently reach out to an interior designer, it may be more cost-effective to agree on a flat rate. Otherwise, you could be in for a nasty surprise come month's end. Hourly rates can work well if you're happy with fewer consultations and contacts. Designers who work on projects usually work on large projects that require a lot of back and forth and supervision of the installation and delivery process.
Can you recommend a local provider?
You can get a discount if the designer has established a relationship with a contractor. Even if there are no discounts, a designer who can recommend a great contractor is an asset. They say you are only as good as your last project, so the work of a great contractor is critical to a designer's reputation.
Have you ever done a similar project?
This will tell you how experienced the future designer is. If you are considering hiring interior designer services to design an apartment, it can be helpful to look at other apartments the designer has completed. If they've worked on a similar project, you can ask them for before, in progress, and after photos to see if you like the results.
What was your recent interior design project?
You can go deeper and ask for insight into the project. The designer's latest undertaking gives you an idea of whether the designer is using the latest design trends and innovations. You can also ask for testimonials from past clients to see if they were happy with the designer's work.
What is your Interior Design Must-haves?
This is a little test to understand interior designers' intuition and whether their natural style suits your taste and lifestyle. Some interior designers believe you should go with a neutral palette or a specific type of wood, while others believe in colours and stones. It also gives you an indication of the level of detail your designer will do.
Do you have a contract?
A contract will show you the exact steps, expectations, and what the designer can do for you. It's about honesty and transparency. Your interior designer (and other contractors) work for you, so you need to know exactly what's going on with your project.
What's the timeline like?
Consider the time frame and time of year when you want to complete the project. Your designer will usually provide a scope of work after the initial consultation to show how they can help you achieve your design goals. Make sure you agree on a schedule, so you don't rush your interior designers, who know precisely what you want from them. Design is a process - it takes time, effort and a lot of creativity.
Conclusion
These questions will give you a good idea of what to ask and expect from potential interior designer services. It is essential to know what your designer can do for you and whether they meet your needs. We recommend you decide based on the total value rather than just looking at the hourly rate. After all, good customer service is the key to a positive and lasting relationship.
