Why Hiring an Interior Designer
is Your Next Smart Move
Hiring an interior designer is not just for the rich and famous. Projects of all shapes and sizes can benefit from the trained eye of a professional. Most homeowners are unaware that a designer is a jack-of-all-trades and can offer his or her expertise in any number of ways that are helpful, from the big picture to the smallest detail. Here are four reasons why hiring a designer for a project is your next smart move.
1. An interior designer can save you money.
Sound like an oxymoron? Well, it’s not! Hiring a designer does not mean you are locked into paying exorbitant fees. Many designers are available for consultations charged at an hourly rate so you can avoid being tied down to a contract. You don’t necessarily need an architect for every project; designers are qualified to draw up preliminary plans and help you cast vision for making your dreams a reality. Homeowners are often hesitant to share their budget for fear of being taken advantage of, but a designer can help you stay within your budget by assisting you in making wise selections. They see the broader scope of a project and can help you eliminate, scale down, or substitute one option for another. The cost of making a mistake or regretting a choice is well worth the money spent up front for their skills.
2. An interior designer has connections.
Simply put, a designer knows things you don’t! They have an established network of trusted subcontractors and can assist you in hiring the right contractor for your project. They are “in the know” when it comes to new materials and technology and can make suggestions for things you are unaware even exist. They have access to products, fabrics and resources not available to the general public and may even be able to find better deals than you would on your own. These connections can save you time spent researching your options, which means less stress and risk on your end.
3. An interior designer works as a liaison.
An interior designer acts as a go-between for you and your contractor. They speak the industry language and are able to interpret what your contractor says into information you can digest and process. If you choose a contractor they have recommended, their already-established rapport will make the project run more smoothly. A designer can manage the construction phase while simultaneously assisting you with design choices. When problems or miscommunication occur, your designer will handle things on your behalf so you don’t need to carry the stress.
4. An interior designer balances details and design.
A designer has the unique ability to balance form and function. They can oversee the master plan without overlooking minute details. They have knowledge about structural considerations and building codes, but they can also identify small things that might get missed, such as unusual outlet placement or door width. A designer can help you visualize furniture placement, introduce options for couches and chairs, recommend colors and patterns, and suggest additional accessories. Space, color, and aesthetic … they weave it all together seamlessly because they understand that details matter just as much as the overall design.
Including a designer in your next renovation could make a world of difference to your budget, stress level, and finished product. Whether you need someone to help you get started, tie all the details together, or do the things you don’t have time to do, an interior designer may be just the person to help your project go from figment to fact.
