Are my budget and timeline feasible? This is imperative. Make sure your expectations on costs and timing are

realistic and that your designer is aware of these parameters. Also, confirm that your designer is able to dedicate the necessary time and effort to your project.

What challenges may I need to overcome on this project? Murphy’s Law is just as active in interior design. Sometimes even more. It’s best to know any concerns your designer has ahead of time. Inevitably, a different, unforeseen challenge may arise, but you should be as prepared as possible.

Do you hire personnel for the job or do I? Find out whether you will be responsible for hiring painters, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, etc. or if your designer will bring in her own vendors.

How will you share information with me? Will it be through plans, design boards or computer imaging? Will we work with you or someone else? Verify your point of contact and establish how much of the lead designer’s time will be devoted to your project versus a junior designer or team member.

On the flip side, your interior designer should have some questions for you! When starting a project, designers need to know YOU- your tastes and needs. This is a great opportunity to share your interests and preferences and will ultimately result in a finished design that reflects you. Below is a list of questions your designer may ask.

What is the overall style you’d like to create? You may not know exactly what style you’re looking to achieve. That’s ok! Images from design magazines, Pinterest and Houzz offer myriad home pictures. Pick out some you like and others you don’t. Share these with your designer. A designer has access to a plethora of furniture and textiles to help you achieve your vision.

How do you use this space? Most rooms serve multiple functions – TV viewing, entertaining, studying, reading, etc.  Make certain your designer accounts for all uses.

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