Step 1: Express Your Style

The words “modern” and “traditional” mean something different to every individual. For example, some think of modern meaning hard lines and bright splashes of color among lots of white space, while others may picture a more Scandinavian style, with warm woods and bright light.

It’s important to show, rather than tell, a designer what you like, because it will provide a clear starting point.

Here’s how:

•  Decide how you want your home to feel. Do you want it to feel worldly and 
sophisticated? Well-loved and welcoming? Serene and simple? Give some thought to 
this, because it should inform the way the designer creates your space.
•  Find what you like – and what you don’t. Turn to the internet and design publications, 
and start saving those photos! Pay close attention to details you love, and more importantly, the ones that you don’t. For example, you may love a mid-century modern look, but prefer to do without the Eames chair.
•  Search for your style outside of the home. There are many ways to communicate your preferences that extend beyond the confines of the home. Collect photos of hotels, fashion, travel destinations, restaurants, or other places and items that inspire you; they’ll paint a clear picture of your style.

Armed with this information, you can search for designers that align with your design tastes and preferences. Then, you can take it a step further when you meet and share the descriptions and photos with your potential designer to discuss how they might be able to bring it to life in your home.

Designer: Nicholas Moriarty

Step 2: Set Expectations

There are three major points you will need to address when meeting with any designer that are central to your project: the scope of the project, your budget, and the desired timeline. It’s important that you are honest and upfront about these parameters, as they set expectations for both you and the designer.

•  Define the scope. Are you looking for help renovating your entire home, or for someone to simply select paint colors and assist in accessorizing? Design projects vary in scope, so it’s important to clearly communicate work you’re looking to have done to ensure success.
•  Determine your budget. Take a close look at what you’ll be able to spend on the design project from start to finish, including the designer’s fee. And, it’s a good practice to estimate low enough that if you go a bit over the budget, you still feel comfortable with the amount of your spending.
• Think about your desired timeline. Once your designer understands the scope of the project, they can help layout a reasonable timeline. If you have a deadline or completion date in mind, it’s important to communicate this so they can re-evaluate work involved and timeline to meet your expectations.

Agreeing on the points above help set the foundation and start to a smooth design process. When you find a designer that aligns with your budget, scope, and timeline, you’re on the right path to finding your fit.

Step 3: Seek Solid Chemistry

Though finding the right designer both stylistically and practically is important, chemistry is invaluable to ensure a strong working relationship with your designer. You want to find someone you trust and connect with, because they will be helping to design your most personal space.

•  Gain an understanding of their working style. You’ll want to get a clear picture of what working together will look like. Learning about things like the designer’s fee structure, communication style, and workflow will help you determine whether your preferred ways of working match with one another.
• Feel out their personality. Think about the information you’ll be sharing with them in the coming months. Do you feel comfortable being honest and upfront with them? Are you excited to get started working with them? These are good signs that you’ve found a good fit in terms of personality.

With these three key factors in mind, you can make a sound decision when selecting an interior designer for your home. Do your homework, set some parameters ahead of time, and ultimately, see how the conversation feels in person – it will set you on the path to success with your interior design project!

Guest post by Refined Haystack — your guide to the best in local design.  To begin your search for an interior designer, visit Refined Haystack’s curated guide to the top design talent in the area.