Finding the right interior designer in London for partial or complete home remodelling is a challenge.
As the client and benefactor, you want the interior designer to deliver as promised. This is because you have to deal with the outcome for a long time, leaving no room for errors. Being aware of that, you have to find the right company or individual to do the job by following the steps below.
Identify your Style is key to Finding the Right Interior Designer
It is essential to identify your style long before you start interviewing prospective interior designers. If you don’t know what you want, check interior design websites such as Pinterest for ideas. Knowing your style is essential as it will help in hiring the right person. Many designers have distinct styles, but a competent designer should adapt to the needs of their client.
Compare Different Portfolios
Assuming you know your style, you should quickly identify a few interior designers to suit your style. Carefully look at their portfolios and find out more about their work. Please take a look at their previous projects and imagine your home in the same style.
If you have relatives or colleagues who have recently worked with an interior designer, make sure to include their recommendations on your list. Since you know your relatives and colleagues best, it is best to consider the recommendation that best fits your aesthetic and choice. For a flexible interior designer that can offer any design or theme that you want, check out the best interior designers San Francisco.
Have a Budget
Before you start remodelling, it is essential to know how much money you are going to spend. Some interior designers charge an hourly rate, while others have a fixed rate for their services. The way a company charges for its services is a factor that can help you choose your ideal candidate.
Aside from the expenses of hiring the interior designer, you should factor in the costs of the interior design project itself. Generally, you should allot 7% to 10% of your home’s value for the interior design project, and more if you are also performing a wide-scale renovation or remodel.
Meet with the Shortlisted Designers
Once you have shortlisted a few designers, have a one-on-one meeting with each of them. Although most designers do not charge for the meetings, ask in advance before you meet them to avoid incurring unnecessary costs.
To help you narrow down your choices even further, and even choose the right one, here are some essential questions to ask your candidates:
- What design services do you offer? Do you also have services outside interior design?
- What are the key elements that would describe your design language?
- Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
- How do you manage your projects?
- Have you encountered any mistakes in your project and how did you deal with them?
- Who will work on this project and how were they selected?
- What do you find the most challenging when designing a home interior?
Be Inquisitive
During the meeting, ask for contacts of their previous clients. This will help you know more about the cost, services provided, qualifications, experience, and if they meet the deadline. Remember to write everything down so as not to forget any detail and also for future reference.
Be Open-Minded
It isn’t easy to find a designer who meets all your requirements. You may have the same styles but differ on other details. It is therefore vital to be open-minded and listen to your designer’s ideas before dismissing them. However, do not be forced to accept the suggestions because it is convenient and comfortable for the designers. This usually happens with designers who cannot adapt to their client’s needs.
Compare your Designers
After obtaining all the information you can on your designers:
- Compare notes.
- Look at each of their estimates and make a list of merits and demerits.
- Keep in mind that the cheaper option does not translate to the best choice.
Sign a Contract
After choosing the best candidate, call them and notify them about your decision. Before making any payment and starting the job, sign a contract. The contract should state the budgetary limits, a timeline, responsibilities, and other essential details.
Formulate a Plan when Finding the Right Interior Designer
Once you sign the contract, you are now a team. It is time to have a plan on how the work will be done. Know the materials to buy first and decide what to keep and what to throw away.
Adjust your Schedule
Considering the plan you create and your current work schedule, your lifestyle will have to adapt to the on-going work. This could mean being home for specific stages of the project.
Finding the Right Interior Designer is a guest post