5 Things to consider when hiring an interior designer for your next project

Congratulations, you’ve decided to redesign your home or office space!

You’ve been pinning on Pinterest and scanning the latest trends to get a sense of what you like and don’t like.

Now, you need to find the right professional to bring it all to life.

Here are 5 things to look out for when making that very important interior designer hire:

1. Look for experience

A seasoned interior designer should have a website that will outline their professional experience.

First, look at their bio. Make sure your designer went to an accredited school. Check out their work history to see where they’ve been and how long they’ve been working in the biz.

Keep in mind that you can work as an interior designer without a certification. That’s why the next factor is so important.

2. Check their portfolio

Past projects should give you a sense of a designer's potential.

Spend some time looking at their portfolio. Ask yourself quite simply, do you like what you’re seeing?

Every interior designer has their own signature style or vibe. Make sure your aesthetic preferences align.

Also, look to see that there are several different projects posted to get the best sense of their experience, style and technique.

Even if you don’t see what you want in their portfolio, you may see that they have the potential to execute your vision.

3. $$$

Money is always a big consideration. Make sure the designers you’re considering fit your budget.

You’ve reviewed their experience and portfolio. Now, make sure that the prices listed fit the marketplace and the designer’s expertise.

There are interior designers at all price points. Choose someone that is within your budget.

Before making the final choice, have a lengthy discussion about timelines and projected costs. Be sure to ask how your designer handles delays and other unforeseen costs. Figure that out beforehand to avoid any awkwardness later.

4. Do they understand your vision?

Do they get your vision and can they bring it to life for you?

There’s no better way to show your designer what you’re looking for than through photos. This is where your Pinterest boards and photo collages come in handy.

Show off the pictures you’ve been pinning or collected from magazines. Also, let them see the space you’re looking to remodel and ask them to pitch their creative vision!

If they can understand your personal style, you’re on the right path.

5. Are your personalities in sync?

It is important that you and your designer are compatible both professionally and personally.

When you’re consulting with interior designers, be sure you are getting along.

Remodeling your home or office does not happen overnight. It can take months or even years.

This person will be in and out of your space until the work is done. The more chemistry you feel, the better the chances this will be a fun experience!

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Are you looking to remodel your home, office or restaurant? Let’s see if we are a good fit! Check out my portfolio and schedule a consultation.