In one of our previous discussions, we talked about researching and evaluating builders and contractors for your home remodel project. You can catch the recap by reading my article, 3 Things to do Before Beginning a Home Renovation or Home Remodel Project. Similarly, you will want to complete the same level of due diligence when it comes to hiring an interior designer.
So how do you choose an interior designer to work with on your home renovation or remodel project? Below is a short list of the top 4 things to consider when selecting an interior designer to work with.
Qualifications
- A coveted interior designer will have a long list of qualifications and accolades you can turn to for validation purposes. When hiring an interior designer, a good place to begin is simply by reading the prospective designer’s bio or about page on their website. This is where you will gain access to all of the basic information you need to know. By reviewing a designer’s about page and online presences, you will learn:
- How they began their career
- Where they went to design school
- Any unique qualifications or specializations the designer has obtained
- Awards received
- Any other pertinent information that will help highlight their style and approach to design as a whole
- Take a look at my about page for a good example of how this information is presented. Many designers will also have more in-depth information on their qualifications if you look a little further. For example, to read more about me and my experience beyond what is provided on the about page of my website, read more about how I landed on a career in interior design.
My Journey to a Career in Interior Design
Experience
- You may also be interested in learning about the experience level of the designer. This could include not only how long the designer has been in business, but also what types of projects the designer likes to take on. When it comes to home remodel projects specifically, be sure to ask any prospective designer about their experience in this area. It’s also appropriate (and common) to ask for a few referrals. This will help you gain a well-rounded understanding of the designer’s capabilities and previous clients’ satisfaction. You can also check out any reviews or testimonials on the designer’s website.
Style-fit
- What is your preferred design style? Are you looking for traditional interiors or a more modern approach? Do you lean towards bright and bold colors or prefer a more subdued pallet? These are all questions to consider when looking to hire an interior designer. You want to be sure there is a strong style-fit for what you’re looking to accomplish in your home design.
- For example, some designers have a very specific design style, while others boast the ability to create and implement designs of greater variety. There are some designers that claim to specialize in designing for all styles and preferences. Either way, a great resource for reviewing the style and work of an interior designer is by reviewing their project portfolio on their website. For more inspiration photos, head over to Instagram to review their profile. Many designers will also share photos and videos to their Instagram stories and highlight buttons which will help you get to know them a little bit better. This can help contribute to the last and final thing to consider, the personality-fit between you and your designer.
Follow me on Instagram @rozmurphydesign
Personality-fit
- Lastly, when hiring an interior designer, you want to make sure there is a strong level of personality-fit. To put it in laymen’s terms, you want to see how well you will gel with your designer as you will be working closely with them throughout the entire home remodel project. A strong personality fit can also ensure your designer is well equipped for working on the renovation project on your behalf and collaborating with the builder, contractor and vendors. Plus, by building a strong relationship with your interior designer, you will have someone in your corner for years to come who can help with seasonal updates, refreshing interiors after a move, designing and furnishing your vacation home and any other home design needs that arise in the future.