The world of HGTV has shown viewers the value and importance in hiring an Interior Designer to either stage, remodel or make your place pretty. And thanks to people like Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper, have made Interior Designers more mainstream. Yes! And it's my belief that you don't have to have $20,000 of disposable income before you can hire one! So, if you are on the hunt for an Interior Designer, well, unlike dating apps, you aren't able to simply swipe your way through 'til you find the perfect match. And so, you should do some research in uncovering a designer that speaks the same language as you. And like any other type of relationship, you should feel completely comfortable and confident with whom you hire.
Note that you will be working alongside this person for at least a few months, daily and usually more than a few times in any given day until the design job is complete. That's a lot of interaction for most people, so make sure you truly like the Interior Designer you hire! And just like with any other profession that you hire out, you should also take the time to come up with a list of questions for an Interior Designer before hiring someone to lead your design project, look after the progress of the project and ensure smooth ordering, securing and installation of your items while staying within your budget and timeline. The world of design is one that is as INCREDIBLE as it is challenging and you as you make dramatic changes to your home or office, the interior designer you hire will be there for the good, the bad, and the yes, the ugly. (Cue, ugly cry face.)
So here goes...
Question #1 // What's your total budget? This is two-fold. 1. The furniture/decor you will be purchasing 2. The interior designer's fee.
Question #2 // What's your timeline?
Question #3 // What's the Interior Designer's Fee?
Question #4 // Does the Interior Designer have access to Trade Pieces?
Question #5 // What role will the Interior Designer play in your overall project? Will they be working with a builder/contractor as a Project Manager for your total design or simply working on securing furniture/accessories? These answers change the budget and timeline quiet a bit and make the process much easier for everyone once these roles are established.
Question #6 // What is your purchasing plan? Are you able to purchase your furniture all at once, at the beginning of the process or are you going to need to acquire pieces a little at a time?
Question #7 // What is your personal style? Do you have one or are you open to your ID's help in finding your style? What is the Interior Designers style?
Question #8 // What is the communication style/technique/preference of the Interior Designer?
Question #9 // Do they have positive client testimonials and design experiences?
Question #10 // Are they willing to help install your space, hang pictures and setup your space or do they charge more for the hands on aspect of the installation?
There it is! Whew! With these top 10 Questions you will be able to secure peace of mind and hone in on the looming topics that you must answer to create a positive work environment for everyone! Happy Hunting!