5 Questions to Ask Your Interior Designer

There are many reasons for beginning the luxury interior design process. It can optimize space within the home, establish a mood conducive to relaxation and positive mental health, and even improve the resale value of your home. Consulting with a professional to create your dream interior is an excellent way to ensure that the job is done right while saving you money in the long run, both through time saved through efficiency and because an interior designer will know how to stretch your budget to assure the greatest value. 

Interior design can be an expensive and long-term project, so if you want a productive and effective working relationship, it is vital to find a skilled and experienced interior designer who is compatible with you and will listen to your vision and needs. As you locate and screen potential candidates, here are some questions you will want to ask to help you make your final decision!  

1. What Are Your Professional Credentials and References?

It is easy to assume that because a person advertises themselves as a professional, they are. Unfortunately, in the U.S., interior designers are not required to have a license, so deciding if the candidate can perform the job to expectations and cost-consciously can be challenging. Some states require or offer the opportunity to register as an official interior designer. That, along with a suitable bachelor's degree in the field, is an excellent place to start. For instance, the National Council for Interior Design Qualification offers an examination that, upon successful performance, results in a certification. 

While you may find plenty of excellent interior designers who have yet to register because it is optional, those who do have shown a desire to go above and beyond requirements and are willing to keep up with current trends and other forms of professional development. 

Your best indication as to the quality of the designer's work is through their previous projects and references. Once you see examples of their work and have a chance to talk to some of their satisfied customers, you will better understand how well they perform their job. If your budget is tight, you can opt to roll the dice on an inexperienced designer, but the results may be unpredictable without a significant body of work to evaluate. 

2. What Services Do You Offer?

A student learns about all facets of the field through a proper interior design education. Yet, professionals often specialize in particular aspects which apply more to their skill level and interests. Depending on your project ideas, you may need various skills which may not be best suited for some interior designers. 

This list will give you an idea of some general services for interior design: 

• Budget analysis and planning

• Color scheme consultation

• Decor and accessory selection

• Furniture and decor customization

• Architectural blueprints and contractor collaboration

• Item delivery and furnishing

• Space optimization

Some interior designers will only handle some aspects of the project, and you may need the assistance of outside sources, depending on the services they provide, how in-depth your project is, and whether you are building from the ground up or performing a makeover.

3. How Much Will the Project Cost?

For most people, budget is one of the most significant concerns regarding interior design. You should have a conservative budget for the project in advance, with a little wiggle room for unexpected situations. With an idea of what you have to work with, it will be easier to determine if your project idea is feasible for your established allocation of funds. 

The designer's skill level, expertise, networking connections, and various other factors come into play for cost estimation. Still, you will need to learn whether they can complete the project within your budget. Some professionals who regularly work with other companies in the area may have arranged discounts on supplies and services which can save you money if you choose to work with them. 

It is always a good idea to shop around to get a range of price evaluations, not only to value your project but also as a means for negotiation. Understanding market value may allow you to arrange an even better deal with a promising candidate.

4. How Do You Handle Project Management?

The key to success is a solid foundation, which often takes the form of the planning and procedures to create the final product. An experienced interior designer will likely have a well-developed method of operation, and having a candid conversation about how they go about their business can provide invaluable insight into their operations. 

If the candidate can provide specific details for an organized, logical plan, they likely know what they are doing, saving time through efficiency. As the project's duration plays a role in cost, this is valuable information that correlates with your budgeting. In addition, you can use this opportunity to compare their methods to other professionals to determine which one seems best suited for your project. 

Through this discussion, you can evaluate their willingness to make you a part of the process and whether they are susceptible to your ideas and thoughts. Some clients want to be consulted with every process step, while others would rather let the professional work unfettered. Depending on where you stand, this may be an essential part of your working relationship. 

5. What Is Your Design Style?

No matter how qualified the candidate may be and how prominent their reputation is, you may experience disappointment with the final product if their style does not match yours. Spend time discussing their vision as well as your own to see whether you have synergy or not. 

If you feel you share some traits but not others, this is where their willingness to work with a client comes into play. Remember, you are the client, and if they are unwilling to compromise their vision to meet your satisfaction, you are better suited to finding someone who will. 

The Bottom Line

Interior design is a process with many moving parts, and you want your project to be as close to your dream concept as possible. The key to doing so is finding an interior designer willing to work toward your vision while providing the services you need within a budget that you can afford. Learning about the designer and their management and design style is vital to set a strong foundation for your home environment.

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