Should You Get An Interior Decorator?
If you think you have good taste, a keen sense of what you want and don't want, a good grip on design concepts and materials, AND have the time to spare, then you're a likely candidate for NOT needing an interior designer's services.
But if you feel you're not able to carry out the task of decorating and planning your home/room's layout by yourself, it would do you well to consider consulting and working with a professional.
Hiring an interior designer/decorator is the same as hiring any other professional for their expertise. In the case of an interior decorator, their skills in bringing functionality and beauty to your home/office are your basis for hiring them. And these services need not necessarily cost you an arm and a leg if you do your homework and find a decorator with whom you feel comfortable working.
- Set your goals, vision and budget
Even before interviewing prospective designers, establish your vision, goals and budget. Have an idea of what you want the room to look like, a particular goal you want to achieve with the room, and an idea of how much money you're willing to spend.
Work these out first on your own and bring these to the table when talking to decorators for the first time. Select photos or get color swatches to help you get a better idea of what you want.
- The initial consultation
With something to work on, the prospective designer should be able to give you immediate feedback on your vision, goals and budget. You should at least hear them verbalize what you have in mind to make sure they understood your concept and needs. Some design suggestions can be offered as well.
Most initial consultations are given free of charge, depending on the area you're in. However, don't be surprised if some designers hesitate to speak their minds on the first consultation as they may be holding back until you award the project to them.
- Working terms
Once you've decided which design firm/individual you want to hire, there are several schemes in availing of their services such as:
- retainer basis - a fee is paid in advance for the services yet to be rendered
- fee basis - a set list of specific services are given at an agreed upon price
- hourly rate - consultations are made on a "as-needed" basis, ranging from $50-$300 an hour
- cost-plus - the designer passes off to you all purchases made in your behalf and adds his/her own fee to the bill
Find what works best for you and your lifestyle and you might be well on your way to a home/office that works well and looks good.
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