An interior designer might have a flawless portfolio, but their vision may not align with your personal style. The best thing to do is always ask questions before working with a designer. It saves time, money, and frustration, but you need to know which questions to ask an interior designer.
You hire an interior designer who comes highly recommended. Their portfolio looks stunning, so you sign the contract, eager to transform your space. A month in, the project isn’t just lackluster — it’s completely different from everything you envisioned.
Asking the right questions before the project starts changes everything.
1. What Is Your Design Philosophy?
Every designer has one. Problems arise when they can’t effectively communicate their philosophy in a way that makes sense and relates to your project.
Every designer has different answers, so the best thing you can do is see if they focus on any of the following:
- How you live
- What your space needs
- What is and isn’t working
Do they jump right into conversations about furniture and finishing touches? A great designer should always factor their clients into the conversation.
This includes lifestyle choices and anything else that might make the client comfortable. You’re essentially choosing a design style, and it’s essential that your designer doesn’t just understand your vision — they need to factor it into the overall design.
2. Can I See Work Similar to My Project?
Although it may look beautiful on the surface, you don’t want to see a curated portfolio with perfect lighting and professional photography. Instead, ask to see photos of projects similar in scale to yours, or even candid shots from the creative process.
You might find that some designers have one aesthetic they excel at, while others are more adept at creating a wide range of designs. Although neither design type is wrong, it’s important to work with someone whose overall vision best aligns with yours.
3. How Do You Handle a Timeline?
It’s always best to speak directly about your projected timeline, especially if you need your design completed for a specific event. Although last-minute decisions can alter a project’s overall completion date, an interior designer can still offer a reasonable timeline.
If the designer encounters a potential issue, they’ll tell you in advance how they’d handle it. Designers who offer vague completion dates without proper reasoning may present a larger issue down the road.
4. What Does Your Process Look Like?
When collaborating with designers, you can expect the design process to come in phases. This includes:
- Discovery
- Concept
- Sourcing
- Presentation
- Procurement
- Installation
Each design phase takes time and involves different decisions you’ll have to weigh, from home décor tips to choosing the best color schemes. Always ask prospective designers in advance what types of revisions are factored into the design process and how much it will cost if you need to make changes.
Also, ask about schedules and whether you or the designer is responsible for keeping things on track. Expect a credible designer to answer these questions without hesitation.
5. Who Am I Actually Working With?
Depending on the firm you hire, the person you meet with might not be the person who actually runs your project. Although this doesn’t have to be a deal breaker, you still want to know ahead of time who you’re working with.
Always find out who will be showing up at your physical space and who will be answering your calls. If you’re not available, someone has to make a quick decision on your behalf.
Who can you expect to handle this task? Ensure it’s with someone you trust.
6. How Do You Source Materials and Furniture?
Designers have access to trade showrooms and vendors that most people don’t. Always ask your designer where they get their materials and furniture from, and whether they’re receiving trade discounts.
Ask what happens to those discounts. Do they pass those discounts along or keep them? Are they splitting the difference?
You should also ask about custom fabricators, especially if you want something bespoke.
7. How Do You Define a Successful Project?
Some designers consider a finished project successful, while others follow up after the invoice is paid. They might even follow up to see how you’re enjoying your new space after a few months of living with the new design.
Always ask how designers handle issues after installation, in case something doesn’t quite meet your expectations. When designers are confident in their work, it’s always considered a good sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Interior Designers Present Their Work?
Interior designers use a variety of media to help clients envision their designs. This includes 3D artist renderings and mood boards, both physical and digital. Sample boards rely on physical materials to help clients select the best fabrics and materials for their projects.
Can an Interior Designer Be an Interior Decorator?
It depends on a person’s formal training. Designers are typically trained and, in some cases, licensed to work on structural elements, lighting, and anything that requires permits.
Interior decorators typically focus on general aesthetics such as furniture, paint colors, textiles, and so forth. When you complete a full renovation, you want a designer. If you’re looking to give an existing space a facelift, you may want a decorator.
Always ask these questions at an interior design consultation, so you hire the correct person for the job.
How Long Does a Residential Project Usually Take?
When designing a single room and using in-stock furniture, you may complete a project within weeks. A full home renovation with custom or imported pieces can take upwards of a year, if not longer.
The Best Questions to Ask an Interior Designer
The best questions to ask an interior designer should focus on whether their aesthetic matches your vision, overall turnaround time, and their process. You need to know ahead of time whether your designer’s vision aligns with how you picture your space and, more importantly, whether they’re willing to work within the parameters of your vision.
Interiors by Steven G. has been designing residential and commercial spaces since 1984 and has the resources and relationships to elevate any project. With a distinctive aesthetic that’s impossible to replicate, we specialize in luxury residences, high-rise condos, hospitality projects, and more. Reach out and request a consultation today.
