Bringing together a homeowner with a first-class design professional is similar to online dating. It's all about genuine connection and personality. Albeit, the process of finding the perfect interior designer takes more than swiping right.
The method of forming the perfect personal relationship with your interior designer is heavily dependent on trust and compatibility, and involves a three-step process: (1) the primary focus should be on matching you, as homeowner, with your ideal designer, (2) then introducing that designer to your contractor to develop a business rapport, and (3) most importantly, involving your designer in your house project prior to any building plans being drawn.
Find the Right Online Designer Database
Sotheby's International Realty
There are actually a number of databases to find design professionals online. Use databases that have a number of filters to help you as a homeowner find the right person for you, efficiently and expeditiously. First, check out databases that seek out the best designers, with renowned reputations, who solely assist homeowners with domestic projects. Second, compare those designers and read reviews.
Sotheby's International Realty
A superb interior designer will save you months of chasing down product samples, and prevent some potentially costly blunders. The designer will listen to you, incorporate your ideas into the project, and undertake other work as well, e.g., purchasing paints, selecting fabrics.
Introduce Your Designer and Contractor Early On
Your contractor and interior designer must work closely together. As such, begin by choosing a designer that is compatible with your contractor, who should also be a pro who primarily specializes in domestic projects.
Once you’ve gathered a few names, spend lots of time walking prospective designers through your home so they know your taste.
Clearly communicate your likes and dislikes, and you'll immediately determine which designers and contractors are good listeners and communicators, both of which are essential for you getting what you want.
Hire Your Designer Before Plans Are Drawn
Be sure you hire your interior designer before building plans are drawn. Things go seamlessly when the designer is brought in at the inception of the project.
Hiring your interior designer early on helps your contractor straight away to know which design elements will affect your home's structure. Interior designers can work to prevent cost overruns and any costly alterations. Great designers assist in keeping the project timelines timely. And as you know, time is money, and money is time.
Except as noted, all images courtesy of Christie's International Real Estate
