By
Shannon Kirby
We are often asked what we think you should look for in selecting someone to restyle your home. We have been on many interviews and this is what we have gleaned from them.
Do Your Research
The nine of us recommend that you check the designer thoroughly from their website, their references, and/or from friends' recommendations. Verify their credentials and talk to the references. Find out their talents and consider their strengths and weaknesses.
Understand the Difference Between a Designer and a Decorator
There is a difference between a designer and a decorator. A decorator may have a "flair" for design but does not have the formal training and is not versed on the standards and norms of remodeling a space. They are not aware of the codes that need to be followed for the safety of everyone. A designer, on the other hand, is trained in all areas of construction, building codes and working with the trades. A professional membership in an organization such as the
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) insures you are hiring someone with the credentials, knowledge, resources, experience and creativity to make your house into a dream home. We, as professional interior designers, have those credentials.
Are You In Sync?
A designer's portfolio is a good tool to identify their talent and start a conversation about your design tastes and your project. The portfolio should reflect your tastes, not just the designer's own personal style. The only style that really counts is yours.
We are strong believers that the personalities of the client and designer should be in sync. This is the person you are trusting to design your space and they will be a part of your life for a period of time. You must feel you can talk to them about your wants, concerns and desires openly.
Clearly Know Your Budget
Make sure you have a realistic view of how much the project will cost. Ask about fees, markups, and any other hidden costs such as sales tax and freight. If you don't know what things cost, discuss this up front with the designer, who will have a wide range of experience with different types of budgets and projects and can help you determine the cost of the project. It is also important to share the goals for the project in terms of the scope of the work.
Ask For a Contract
The contract should clearly define who is involved, the scope of the work, how services are priced, when payments are due and the responsibilities of all parties. The scope is important because we often come in to interview for one job and it moves to other areas without finishing the first. And, as for responsibilities, you as the client are responsible for hiring all labor.
Team Work
You and your designer are a team in the process and it is a process that doesn't happen overnight. Open communication, clearly defined goals and knowing your budget will ensure a glorious outcome. We want you to be thrilled when we close the door at the end of the project.
