Do away with the idea that hiring an interior decorator is for the rich. In fact, they save you lots of time and money. Whether you have no idea on to decorate your home or whether you have an idea but need help tying pieces together a decorator can help. They offer an extra set of eyes that are trained to notice things you may not.
Contracting With an Interior Decorator
Bonnie Robinson in “How to Commission an Interior Designer” lays out several points to do so you can have a fruitful association with a decorator.
How to commission an interior designer
Need an interior designer but don’t know where to start? We’ve picked out top tips from the guide below but you can download the entire thing for free here. To find the perfect interior designer for you take a look at our 100 Top Designers and refer to The List, our invaluable directory of design professionals in your area… Read more…
Among Bonnie’s ideas are:
- Draw up a project scope or wish list. Identify what you want to achieve, what problems need solving and your overall budget.
- Be upfront about your budget from the beginning.
- Ask how the interior designer works, how they charge
- Understand fees. If you’re quoted an hourly rate, agree on a “ceiling” from the onset.
- Be open to new ideas and solutions.
Online Decorating Services
Everything is available on line, right? Yep, you can buy interior consulting via design packages. Millay Walsh in “How to Commission an Interior Designer”highlights “four online platforms that are making interior design affordable and transparent.”
How to Hire an Interior Designer on a Budget
One of the most common questions I, as a decorating enthusiast, am asked by friends in nesting mode is “Where can I find an affordable _________ for my home?” It’s fairly easy to answer: flea markets, vintage shops, and a few of my go-to budget-friendly retailers. However, the second-most common question—“How much does an interior designer actually cost?”—always throws me for a loop. If you hire an interior designer, you can set your budget for furniture and décor at basically any number you’re comfortable with (though don’t be surprised if he or she tries to upsell you)… but the bill for your design services can easily and quickly rack up, and it can vary greatly. Read more…
Regardless of the route you choose for hiring an interior decorator, clear and direct communications are at the heart of a successful relationship. You and your decorator have to establish a rapport that’s direct and honest. I guess this goes in any business relationship, but I think it’s especially important when someone is helping you transform a house into your home.
My wife and I have been wanting to make our daughter’s room perfect but we haven’t really been able to offer this to her with our design knowledge. I liked that you had mentioned that hiring an interior decorator saves you a lot of time and money and can help figure out a great design. I’ll have to start looking around for an interior decorator that will be able to work for our situation and hopefully we can get her room looking the best possible.
I’m happy to hear that you found my post helpful. Good luck on your search for an interior decorator — I’m sure your daughter’s room will be lovely and functional.