Top 10 Things to Consider When Hiring an Interior Designer

3 minute read

When it comes to decorating your home, hiring an interior designer can be a wise choice, though many people find choosing the right interior designer a daunting task. As an expert in their field, not only can they help you bring your unique vision to life, they can also save you time and money in the long run and, importantly, relieve stress. They will use their skills, expertise and unique network in the industry to deliver the very best end result for you.

While an interior decorator will manage everything aesthetic, in other words the Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FF&E) which is everything that would fall out of your house if you were able to turn it upside down, an interior designer will manage not just this but also the spacial planning and possible bespoke built-in joinery. I work with some impressive architects and would be very happy to make recommendations to you.

Here are my top 10 things to consider:

1. Get Referrals: Start by asking friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. This can help you find an interior designer with a proven track record, and it also gives you a chance to see their work in person.

2. Review Their Website and Social Media: Before hiring an interior designer, it's important to explore their style, creativity, and attention to detail. Often a good website will also communicate their personality and how easy it might be to work collaboratively with them.

3. Consider Their Communication Style: Communication is key when working with an interior designer. Make sure you choose someone who is easy to talk to and who can explain their ideas clearly and concisely. They need to be efficient, professional and open - preferably making the whole experience fun for you!

4. Sustainable and Considered Materials: It’s a good thing to hire an interior designer who has experience working with sustainable and considered materials. Not only is it better for the environment and for your health, it also adds value to your home.

5. Best Use of Space: A good interior designer will be able to help you make the best use of the available space in your home. Perhaps a room isn’t being used in the most practical way or the furniture isn’t positioned to maximise the space and flow.

6. Lighting Design: Lighting can make or break the ambiance of a room and the mood it creates. A skilled interior designer will be able to help you choose the right lighting to create the atmosphere you want and to highlight the features of your home.

7. Flow from One Room to Another: Your home should have a natural flow throughout. An experienced interior designer can help you create a cohesive design that ties all of your rooms together.

8. The Science of Colour: Colour can have a significant impact on our moods and emotions. It has been proven to affect mental health and when used cleverly can benefit the way you feel in your home. An interior designer can advise on the right colours to create the atmosphere you want in your home.

9. Budget: Before hiring an interior designer, it's important to set a budget, both for their fee, the tradesmen you will need to hire and for the furniture, fittings and equipment (FF&E) you will need to purchase. A good designer will work within your budget and they can also help you make the best decisions, which will save you money in the long run. Investing in a good interior designer will deliver an investment in the value of your property.

10. Trust Your Gut: Finally, it's important to trust your instincts when choosing an interior designer. You should feel comfortable with the designer and you should feel confident that they can bring your personal vision to life.

Hiring an interior designer can be a positive decision that will save you time and money in the long run. However, it's important to choose the right designer for your needs and one that you get on with. Consider the factors listed above to find the right interior designer for you.