Finding a Decorator or Interior Designer can be a daunting task. It’s a bit like dating or an interview. You are seeking a partnership with a firm to achieve your goals. You will want to find a firm that can communicate well and understand what you want, what you like and work with you to meet your needs. Ideally, it would be great if you get along.
Here are 10 things to know when hiring a decorator.
The first few things are actually about you. A good decorator should ask you many of these questions at the offset.
Style:
Your style. From where do you draw inspiration? Do you love your Grandmother’s Midcentury modern furniture but hate her wallpaper. Are you a fan of Scandi style, or is it California Modern? Do you prefer Traditional or Contemporary or are more of an eclectic Bohemian type? It’s ok to be unsure of your style, but its important to know what you like. What colors do you like or have an aversion to? Do you have something in mind a vacation destination In a nutshell what’s the vibe you’re going for?
For more on developing your style check out our article on “Finding Your Style”
Input:
What level of input you intend to have in the decision-making process and how responsive are they to client input. Do you want to approve every item at every step of the process or do you prefer to leave in their hands for the big reveal? Make sure you are clear during the consultation that you’re either very hands-on or Laissez-faire.
Budget:
Establish and express your budget. Find out if there are any cost-saving DIYs or budget-friendly alternatives that can help you achieve your vision and remain on budget without sacrificing quality or impact? Prioritize key items or spaces. if that countertop or leather couch is must-have, plan for it.
Contingency: Always plan for the unexpected. Estimates are just that. There is nothing worse than an unfinished project due to a lack of funds. This can actually drive the overall cost up further and cause additional delays and headaches. Avoid deserter at all costs. Plan for 15-30% above your estimate. If your project manager has done their job the will have included some padding for incidentals in their estimate.
Design Process:
There are many parts to the design process and many firms operate differently. Be sure to have clarification on the following. Know the expectations and obligations of both parties.
Presentation style, how they communicate ideas.
Will there be a Visual presentation in the flesh where you can touch and feel samples or digital media like Pinterest or email.
Who will be the Project Manager? What form of communication phone text emails? How often will the be onsite?
Money Matters:
What are the financials? A lot of people do not like to discuss money it can make people uncomfortable, but it’s wholly necessary to avoid unwanted surprises. It is important to know what Services are offered and included? Is it full service with the firm managing contractors, trades vendors and deliveries?
Estimate:
Getting an estimate will help determine if your budget is reasonable for the desired final product and if the particular firm is the right match for you. If you move forward the estimate should fall within or under budget.
Payment schedule:
Knowing the payment schedule avoids delays and confusion. Supplies and certain items have different wait times and delivery dates and may not ship if not paid for this can cause an unwanted monkey wrench in your plan.
Deposits :
Is it refundable if you do not proceed with the project? How much is required to start the project? When is it due?
Contracts:
Is there a contact. involved If so KNOW THE TERMS.
Time Frame :
What’s Turnaround of the entire project and what are the milestones. Often payment schedules can be based around these factors a least in part. How long will it take to transform your space and will you have to vacate? Depending on the scope of the plan and the size or your space, you may have to make a plan to make accommodations for the duration of your reno.
Access:
How will the designer / trades access your space do you live in a private house a Condo apartment high-rise? Will you have to arrange for someone to be home or coordinate with your building manager/ super for access to your space loading docks or freight elevators? Are the restrictions on when work can be done in your building?
Remember they work for you and ultimately it’s not only your money but you will be living with the final product. Establishing the above helps to ensure you and your partners are all on the same page avoiding unnecessary confusion.