How to choose the right interior designer for your project

When you select an interior designer, you are giving them the responsibility of taking your personality, taste and ideas and presenting them in your home as art. You want an interior designer who understands you not just as a client, but as a person who has specific tastes and needs.

Knowing what to expect when looking for an interior designer will not only help you find the best interior designer for your project, but will also help you stick within your price range. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right interior designer.

Cost

Before researching interior designers, create a budget. Breakdown your budget and decide what you’ll spend on – paint, décor, furniture and other necessities – to complete your project. Doing your homework and research will help you arrive at a price range you can work with.

After establishing a budget, find an interior designer within your price range. Ask them to provide you with a quote and how they charge for their services. Do they charge by room? Or square foot? Do they require additional fees to purchase décor, paint and other supplies, or is that included in the price?

Have an idea of the design/ theme you want

In addition to establishing a budget, have an idea on a design or at least a colour scheme or theme before hiring an interior designer. This gives them something to work with; provide them with sample photos, colour palates or anything else that will help them bring your ideas to life.

Credentials and a solid portfolio

Before hiring an interior designer, it is important to check their credentials. Whether it be a formal degree, years of experience or personal recommendations, every professional should have credentials to back up their career. Ask to see their portfolio of work from other client’s homes. 

Experience

Ensure your interior designer has experience, especially with the kind of project you want to embark on. Also make sure that the designer has experience in your area and is familiar with your community. If you live on central California’s coast, choose an interior designer in Santa Barbara.

Take into account customer reviews

Take the extra time and effort and search for customer reviews. Customers are the most likely to be honest about an interior designer’s services as well as their quality of work.