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How to Hire a Designer
Many consumers are somewhat intimidated by the thought of hiring an interior designer. They worry they'll lose control of the
design, or the budget, and that the finished room may not be to their liking.
Do Your Homework - Your designer won't be able to create the perfect room for you unless you're able to communicate just what
you want. It's often recommended that you begin to accumulate photos from magazines of rooms and furniture you like (and those
you dislike), since this will give your designer a place to start in creating a design specifically for you.
Describe Your Vision - Be able to explain to your designer the style you want, the colors you like, and the activities that
will take place in the room. Make a list of furniture you own that you want to keep. Think about your preferences for
furniture, fabrics, materials, and patterns.
If you've ever thought about working with an interior designer, some doubts might have stopped you cold. Fearing it would be
too expensive, or that you'd get stuck with a room you wouldn't like, you may have given up on the idea altogether.
However, using a design professional can, and should, be a good experience. It can give your home continuity, function, and
beauty. And it doesn't have to go over your budget and might even save you some money.
Finding an interior designer is much easier once you have the right information. Consult our Services category to get a great idea of what is available to you.
So, once you've found a designer, what happens next? How can you prepare yourself to be helpful, remain in control, and ultimately end up
with a design that is pleasing?
Communicate with your Designer – Listen. Talk. Listen. That's it in a nutshell. The designer will tell you how they work, what they charge,
and what the timing of your project may be. You'll need to fully explain your concept of the project, and be frank about your budget
limitations (everyone has them).
Finances – Which brings us to money. Make sure you're very clear on exactly how you'll be charged, when your designer needs deposits, how
you'll be billed, what you get, and when the work should be complete. Each designer has a different way of working and various fee
structures, whether a flat fee, hourly fee, or percentage of purchases. Even if you don't want to spend a fortune, there are many ways to use
a designer on a very tight budget, such as hourly or daily consultations.
Getting the Design You Want – The more information you can give to your designer the better. Your needs, your preferences, and your hopes can
be conveyed in both words and pictures. Collect photos from magazines of rooms, furniture, and color schemes you like, and use these to
illustrate your ideas. This will give your designer a place to start in creating a design specifically for you. (Make an extra set of color
copies if needed.)
However you choose to proceed with your project, whether you consult with a designer online or in person, by the hour or the
day, for a room or your entire home - you're sure to learn a lot and have a more beautiful and functional living space as well.
Article Provided by Glenna J. Morton, About.com
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