WHY HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

 

ABOUT THE INTERIOR DESIGNER

 

SERVICES OF AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

WHY HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

 

Following is an excerpt from The Toronto Star, Saturday, April 23, 2005. This article talks about hiring a designer when having a new home constructed, but is equally relevant to an existing home.

 

"Hiring an Interior Designer may be one of the best investments a new home purchaser may make.

Many of us feel that our project is too small to warrant a design specialist, our budget is not large enough, or since we have a builder and/or architect, we don't need to throw another trade into the mix. Designers work on a wide range of projects and within an equally diverse range of budgets. Working with an Interior Designer is like having your own personal tour guide to escort you through the exciting world of home construction and home fashion.

 

Designers have spent years mastering their craft in order to be able to create functional and beautiful spaces for living and working. They are familiar with current products, trends, building codes, local trades and resources. Designers can not only help you create the home of your dreams, but also save you time and money.

 

As an advisor, a designer can help you:

  • Confirm a style and theme for your home.

  • Assist in creating a custom space designed to accommodate your lifestyle and family's personal needs

  • Guide you through the communication process with contractors and trades people.

  • Help to set and maintain a realistic budget.

  • Create an overall plan for your new home, maximizing the home's best features and assets.

  • Create lighting plans and furniture layouts, maximizing opportunities for built-ins and ensuring that focal points are properly lit.

  • Offer innovative design ideas such as water features, custom fireplaces etc.

  • Avoid costly mistakes and expensive redos.

  • Share a pool of resources for manufacturers, retailers and trades people.

 

Your relationship with a designer will span many years past the completion of your new home, so find a designer you trust and understands your needs. Your designer should be receptive to your desires, likes, dislikes, and suggestions.

 

How a designer charges may vary from project to project. If your budget is small, consider hiring one for one or two hours as a consultant. The designer's hourly fee will vary between $50 and $300, depending on your location and the designer's experience.

 

For larger and lengthy projects, designers will offer a variety of billing options: an hourly fee; hourly fee plus commission on all purchases; flat rate; flate rate plus commission; straight commission; price per square foot.

 

Choosing to consult with a designer to guide you through the world of new construction and decor is perhaps the best and most comforting decision you can make."