Working with an interior designer can be an extremely rewarding experience. Interior designers are quite literally experts in interior design. This can mean a few things to different people, but overall, designers help bring your vision to life by providing expertise and guidance. Utilizing best practices in working with a designer means maximizing that designer’s intellectual property.
In this month’s blog, we will discuss the importance of working with an Interior Designer: how to navigate and understand the process, value the relationship, enjoy the experience, and love the result – a functional and beautiful home.
Let’s start by defining an interior designer and outlining their responsibilities and deliverables.

What is an Interior Designer?

An interior designer is a professional who uses technical solutions – through functionality, materiality, safety, and building codes to create beautiful spaces that enhance the quality of life. (1)

Understanding how a space impacts its inhabitants is the heart of an interior designer’s work. How a space makes us think, feel, and act are all important aspects of our lives—and whether you realize it or not, the interior design profession has a profound impact on well-being. That’s especially true of the areas where we spend the majority of our time, like our offices and homes. (2)

• Meet with clients to discuss their needs, preferences, and budget. They take measurements and gather information to understand the client’s vision and requirements.
• Develop layout plans and floor plans to optimize the use of space and ensure efficient flow within the interior environment. They consider factors such as traffic flow, furniture placement, and functionality to create practical and ergonomic designs.
• Conceptualize design ideas and themes based on client preferences, architectural style, and project requirements.
• Specify and select materials, finishes, furnishings, and decorative elements to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the space. Considering factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and budget constraints when choosing materials for flooring, wall coverings, furniture, lighting, and accessories.
• Create presentations, renderings, and 3D visualizations to illustrate the design concepts and communicate ideas.
• Oversee all aspects of the design process from concept development to implementation. They collaborate with architects, contractors, vendors, and suppliers to ensure that designs are executed according to specifications, budget and timeline. (3)

Before you Start

Do your homework, not only as it relates to your project scope but also as it relates to selecting the right designer.

• Have a clear idea of what you want to achieve within your space. Consider your lifestyle, preferences, and any specific requirements you have for the project.
• Be able to communicate your design challenges and wishes.
• Create a Pinterest board, Houzz.com idea board, or pull images from magazines to serve as inspiration for you and your designer.
• Establish a realistic budget for the project.
• Interview several designers. Ask for credentials. (Do they have a design degree from an accredited university? Are they affiliated with professional design organizations like ASID or IIDA? What’s their track record? Have they won any awards? Do you like the work in their portfolio? Have you reviewed their testimonials and reviews?)
• Bring on an interior designer as soon as possible. Ideally, you should hire an interior designer during the initial planning phases. This allows them to collaborate with architects, builders, and other professionals to ensure that the interior designer is seamlessly integrated with the overall project goals. This early collaboration can avoid costly design changes later. (4)

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