HOW TO PREPARE TO FIND YOUR DREAM DESIGNER
So, you have finally decided to go through with that remodel you have been putting off for years. Being stuck at home for months on end, scrolling through DIY blogs, Pinterest, and Instagram, sure has a way of bringing to light all the areas needing improvement in your own. AND YOU SIMPLY. CAN’T. STAND IT. ANY. LONGER! We get it! What was once many, ‘doable’ projects, has now compounded into an entire home remodel that left the realm of DIY ages ago. The next logical step is to start the search for the local Interior Designer that fits your project needs. It may sound intimidating finding the right designer for your home, but The Speas Team is here to help with a few tips on how to be prepared for that initial call.
FIND THE DESIGNER THAT FITS THE JOB
Or as we like to call it, the Interview Process. This process is crucial to finding the designer that can deliver the remodel of your dreams! Your designer is there to guide you through the entire process and provide you a gorgeous, functional space in your home, while of course, making the process an enjoyable experience.
It is common for a remodel to take anywhere from 6 months to 1+ years from start to finish, which is why it is important to ensure you have a good working relationship with your design and construction team. An interview will go both ways; you and the designer will want to fully understand the project you are about to embark on together. The most effective initial call you can have with any design professional is to start with knowing what you want to have done to your home.
BEFORE THE INTERVIEW: GET CLEAR ON YOUR PROJECT
As interior designers, these are the first questions we ask homeowners about a prospective remodel project. Ask yourself these questions to prepare for your initial call:
- Have you ever experienced a remodel before? Did you have a designer, or did you go it alone? Why are you considering working with a designer for this project?
- What areas need improvement, and where do they fall on your priority list of completion?
- What is the scale of your project? Looking to change out some furniture pieces and spruce up some window coverings? Or planning to demolish and rearrange wall and fixture locations with all new finishes and fixtures?
- When do you want it complete?
- Last and certainly, least for remembrance: The Budget. You will likely be asked this question above all in your interview.
THE INTERVIEW
You have made your list. Sorted your priorities. Whipped out the Google Machine and start reaching out to design professionals in your area. Most websites will have a contact page with an online form, email, or phone number to call. Whether you prefer text or talking, expect a phone call following your inquiry to begin, The Interview. This is a personal process and verbal communication is one of the best ways to determine if your personalities and processes will align.
Questions You’ll Be Asked
Aside from the project questions mentioned above, a designer will want to know all about your style, aesthetic likes and dislikes, and how you live in your home. You will want to be able to express your desires to your designer clearly. Remember, this is the time for BOTH of you to make sure you are a good fit!
- All the questions you have diligently prepared following reading this blog.
PLUS
- What would you call your design style? Where do you seek inspiration, Pinterest, Instagram, Magazines, HGTV, Blogs? What colors do you love and what colors do you naturally gravitate to, even when you’re trying to break your mold?
- How long have you lived in your home? How long do you plan to live in your home?
- What do you love about your home currently? What would you change that you can’t stand?
- What is your budget?
HIRING YOUR DESIGNER
After completing this process and chatting with a few different designers, you should have a good feeling about the person you have selected to complete your project AND what their process looks like to make your vision a reality.
We hope this was helpful in preparing you to interview your first designer and what to expect during the process. Making a list and writing ideas out beforehand can ensure all your thoughts and ideas are taken into consideration, which in turn will help the project get started smoothly. Remember, you got this! Be on the lookout for the next blog of this series that will be addressing what projects will need a contractor and when DIY makes sense!