So the excitement for a new life is upon you and you’re looking for a design company that offers a unique perspective and fresh take on designing your new interior. Perhaps it can seem overwhelming, as there are so many moving parts, and maybe you don’t know where to begin. In this blog article, we’ll list 6 questions that can be beneficial to ask a new interior designer before you make a hiring decision for your interior design job.
1. Do you have a portfolio where I can see an example of your work?
By being able to see an interior designer’s portfolio, you can get a sense of their personal style. Of course, their style could be vastly different from yours, so you need to ask about how they would approach your design. You can also gain insight into different geographical locations they specialize in or draw inspiration from, and how they incorporate the surroundings of that location into the art, furniture, and overall design aesthetic.
Professional interior designers will have a deep and broad portfolio in which you can get a sense of different floor plans and furnishings to help you know what to expect. You may see a design you really like, and perhaps elements of this can be incorporated into your unique job.
Take special note of lighting and how it is implemented, both natural and lighting incorporated into your design. Indeed, a designer’s portfolio contains some of the most valuable information you will be able to help you in your decision.
2. How do you determine my design aesthetic?
Your design should be uniquely you! A professional designer will listen with deep interest to what you are seeking and strive to answer the most common interior design questions, but also sense what the most important part of the new design will be to you. By the end of your consultation, you should feel in your comfort zone to make the next step on your purchase of design service.
3. How much does hiring an interior designer cost?
The costs for an interior designer can vary greatly, based on experience and geographical location. It’s important to remember that this is an investment into a space where you will be living and spending time, so the quality of materials, a timeless design, and a proven track record with other clients can help bring your dream home to fruition. When speaking to a potential interior designer, they will be able to detail the costs for their services so that you are on the same page.
4. How do you communicate your ideas for design?
Being able to see a rendering of a potential new design can be extremely helpful. By having the interior designer provide design renderings of what your project will look like, you will be able to visualize the completed project more fully. This provides clients extra value because there are no surprises in how the design will come together, and it is an accurate visual rerepresentation
Likely, there are elements of your design being shipped in from locations all over the world, and the design renderings give you a preview of what your house or space will look like before any changes are made.
5. How can we make use of the views and/or outdoor spaces?
Protip: Interior designers LOVE bringing the outdoor views into your interior design project
If you live a space that has breathtaking views of the ocean, city or other vista, what is outside is a perfect complement to what your interior design will be on the inside. A professional interior designer will know how to maximize this opportunity.
I always say, “If you want to know what’s in style, look outside!”, and this is our approach at CIH Design.
6. How do you help determine my dream design style?
Finding your dream style is key to a successful interior design project. You deserve to have a look and design that will make you happy every day when you walk in the door. And, as living in a pandemic has taught us, working from home needs to be a source of inspiration and revision how we previously may have lived in our spaces before.
What about my interior design budget?
An interior designer will be able to help tease out this information and give you direction while respecting your budget. Sometimes it’s a matter of editing down choices or looking at items in a way that can open up possibilities you never thought possible within your budget.
Ready to start your interior designer search?
Now that you have a better understanding of what to expect from an interior designer, it’s important to know how to find the right one for you.
The best place to start is by asking your family and friends if they have any recommendations. Interior designers often work collaboratively with other professionals in the industry, such as architects, builders, and landscape designers.
So, you may have access to a great designer through someone you know. Of course, an internet search to find the website of an interior designer is a good option, too. Check out their blog and social media channels to get a sense of their personality and design process.
We hope this helps in hiring an interior designer! Finding the right design firm may not be easy, but once you decide the results will be worth it when you find your dream design team! You might even have some fun along the way in seeing your new design become a reality!
CIH Design, LLC has be designing fashion-forward luxurious interiors for over 30 years, in the US and across the globe. Get in touch with Shelly today for your initial consultation and see if we’re a good fit to work together!