The thought of looking for an Interior Designer can be intimidating for numerous reasons.
Most of those reasons, however boil down to the fact that you are putting the design of your space into someone else's hands. Do they know what they’re doing? Do they understand what you want? Are they going to break the bank? All super valid concerns. The answer is simple. If you’re prepared for your own project and armed with the appropriate questions, it puts you in control. Let me explain. First, of all there are things that you need to be sure of before starting to look for an interior designer. Next, you have to know the right questions to ask to be certain that the designer you choose is qualified for the project and a good fit for you to work with. And finally, you have to be willing to do a little homework.
OK, first things first....do you understand what you want to accomplish? If you don’t get it, nobody else will either. Have examples of things that are similar to what you are looking for ready to present to your designer when you find them. How much is it going to cost? DO NOT start a project without establishing a budget first. When planning your budget remember that you need to not only include expenses for materials and labor, but also for the unexpected. During the demolition process sometimes things are discovered that are more costly than originally estimated. It also often adds to the timeline. When something unforeseeable happens, be willing to compromise to keep the project moving along and on budget. At Symmetry Designs, we are happy to assist you with coming up with this initial budget as putting costs to paper can be overwhelming when you haven't done any design work before.
When looking for an interior designer there are a few things you need to know in order to make a good decision. You want to be sure that they are qualified to take on your project and see it through to the end. First, ask them if they’re a “Certified Interior Designer”. This is the only title recognized under California state law. You will also want to know what interior design education they have and which related examinations they have passed. Also find out how long they have been practicing interior design.
Lastly, do your homework. For larger scale projects (ie Kitchen or whole house remodels) ask for references and look at projects they have worked on. When calling references ask how long their project took to complete and if they stayed on budget.
Once you have done all the work to find the perfect designer for your project don’t forget that you still need to get a proper agreement or contract before starting. Ask your designer to prepare a letter of agreement or an interior design contract. Be sure that the agreement describes the scope in which the interior designer is to be involved. It is also important that the agreement contains a dispute resolution clause between you and the designer. And it should clearly state the fees that will be owed to the designer, as well as, how and when they are to be paid. Now you and your new designer are set to begin your project. You’ve done the work to be sure that you hired to right person. Let them do the job they have been hired for and let them lead the way for you!
Caitlin Campbell of Symmetry Designs takes great pride in being very approachable and easy to work with. I can work on any size budget so don't be intimidated by the imagined cost of hiring a designer. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have about working with me.
