OK, so you want to revamp your humble abode, but you’re not the greatest at decorating or designing. Maybe it’s high time to call in a professional interior designer.
Sure, you know how to add a pretty vase of flowers here, and a framed piece of artwork there, but in the end, you have no idea what works best with what.
No sweat, decorating your home can be overwhelming and a little scary. But it can also be a lot of fun. There are so many factors to consider from what color to paint the walls to what kind of kitchen table would look best in your traditional style home.
As you contemplate where the family photos should go, you might discover you do indeed need to bring in an interior designer or decorator to help sort it all out. After all, they are trained for such a role and it is their job. While it may seem intimidating to hire such a person, they could make the task easier and even enjoyable.
When hiring a designer or decorator, you want to choose someone who will help you design an environment that you and your family will ultimately be comfortable.
What to look for
How do you know what to look for in a good designer or decorator? Start by exploring their credentials, experience, style, and their ability to work with you, as well as for you.
Sure, many designers have years of experience, but do check that the one you choose has at least a few years of active duty. Are they members of such professional organizations such as the ASID, IIDA and IFDA? These groups keep them current in design trends and industry practices, but also helps them create the future of the ever-changing design industry.
What is a designer?
The American Society of Interior Designers says an interior designer: “Is professionally trained to create a functional and quality interior environment. Qualified through education, experience and examination, a professional designer can identify research and creatively resolve issues and lead to a healthy, safe and comfortable physical environment.”
Interior designers are also — in some, but not all US states — required to have a license. This licensing certifies the designer is a qualified professional who can make important decisions about interior spaces.
Interior decorators on the flip side are geared toward concentrating on the surface decor such as paint, fabric, furnishings, lighting, etc. Decoration is considered to be furnishing or adorning an area with attractive items.
Working for you
Keep in mind that you want a designer or decorator to create a space for you and turn your house into a home. Look for such a professional who will work hard to find a look that brings forth your style – from start to finish. The end goal is that the results are something you are happy with and can live with for years to come. You don’t want a designer or decorator to step in and take complete control. You want to be part of the design process and be happy when the project is completed.
After all, you are the one who is living in the home, not the designer or decorator. So be sure you give your input every step of the way while creating your ultimate dream home.
