What is it really like to work with an interior designer?
Have you ever walked into your home and stubbed your toe on a piece of furniture because it’s not in the right place? Or you wish you didn’t have a wall in the middle of your foyer? Or felt frustrated with the style of your space because it simply doesn’t make sense?
These are common symptoms of a space that isn't functioning at full capacity for your real lifestyle…and this is where an interior designer can help. Designing a space that supports your best life is one of MANY things we do when designing your home.
Today I'm giving you the scoop on what it’s really like to work with an interior designer!
Left: Eric Striffler Photography; Right: Photo by Basia
A cohesive design for your dream home
Perhaps you have a vague sense of how you would like your space to look, flow and feel, but have no idea where to start. As a designer, when we embark on a new project, one of the first things we do is meet with our clients to get these thoughts out in the open.
We discuss your style preferences, functional needs, and investment goals. We also visit and assess your space to take accurate measurements and notes.
This intensive discovery phase allows us to start organizing all the information, and ultimately craft a cohesive design for your dream home.
Envisioning your design
One of the most exciting moments of working with a designer is the final design presentation. This is when everything starts to come together, and you can truly envision the design of your space!
Our design presentations are fun, lively and visually compelling — with mood boards, drawings, sketches/renderings, images of furnishings, fixtures & materials, and physical samples so you can see and touch what things will feel like.
At this point we also talk about your total investment, and advise on where to splurge...and where to save.
Smart long-term investment
Working with an interior designer is a smart long-term investment. As trained professionals, we make sure everything is done right from the beginning, with eyes on the future.
Our goal is to develop a design around your current lifestyle, while carefully considering any future plans or potential changes in your life — such as a growing family, selling your home in a few years, etc. We help you select high-quality, long-lasting materials and propose upgrades that will increase the value of your home.
Project Management from Start to Finish
Whether your project is small or large, it will not be problem-free. When managing your project, we aim to resolve things quickly and efficiently, serving as your advocate every step of the way.
We make sure your project stays on schedule and within budget. We coordinate and oversee trades, and many times spot potentially expensive mistakes before they are made. As we handle these details, you are able to get on with your normal life, and sleep better at night.
Exclusive products and a time-saving process
One of the many benefits of working with an interior designer is our access to quality, trade-only products that will make your space stand out from the rest. Designers also have an existing relationship with vendors, which allows us to source, purchase and expedite products, saving our clients’ valuable time.
Once all orders are placed, we handle all the behind-the-scenes logistics, coordinating the delivery of each item to our receiving warehouse. The products are then inspected and stored in a climate controlled environment until it’s time to schedule the final installation.
Photography: Lucy Schaeffer
Personalized, white-glove experience
There are few things more personal than the spaces we live in. Interior designers are mindful of this. We strive to create a design experience that is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible for you and your family.
On install day, we take care of every last detail, from assembling furniture to styling your space with extra care. We add those final touches that make a home feel special — candles, beautiful flowers and comfy throws — so when you walk through the door your heart is filled with joy and you want to do the happy dance.
Photo by Lucy Schaeffer
In a nutshell, an interior designer is a cross between an artist, a psychologist and Mr. Fix-it :)
I hope this behind-the-scenes scoop has shed some light on what it’s really like to work with an interior designer. Us designers are fiercely loyal to our clients and we will do everything possible to ensure you are entirely satisfied with the outcome.
Book a discovery call with me today to chat about your design or renovation project. I’m here to help!