Questions to ask before hiring an Interior Designer
Questions to ask before hiring an Interior Designer
Sometimes interviewing an Interior Designer can feel like a blind date. Is this a relationship that I feel comfortable with? Do we both have the same vision? How is the level of communication? These are just a few things to think about before signing a contract with an interior design firm. For me, the relationship between Designer and Client is very close and trusting, and it usually develops into a lasting friendship.
I must admit that I get so excited when meeting a prospective client. I love to share my work as an interior designer and discuss the client’s vision for their home. Generally, my first inspiration comes from the client and the architecture. Sometimes I can visualize the completed room all at once, and other times the I build the room with my client’s approval, one element at a time.
Here are a few questions to consider when interviewing a prospective Interior Designer. FYI, in hopes of gaining your interest, I have included my answers as well.
Does the Interior Designer consider your project to be a good match for them and meet their capabilities?
Going back to the above discussion, one of the most important factors when choosing to work with a new client is that our personalities are a good fit. Projects can go on for months, or if we are starting with the architectural plans, it may take over a year. That is why during our first meeting, I tell my clients that if we’re not having fun, then something is off balance. I love the creative process of my interior design work, and to ensure that this process goes smoothly, I have an exit clause in my contract to protect the client and myself.
Does the Interior Designer welcome client involvement or does the Designer need to fulfill their vision to complete your home?
Some clients trust my style so much that they prefer to give me complete control over their interior design and home remodeling projects. However, my preference is to work very closely with my client.
Anyone who has taken on any interior design or home remodeling projects knows that there are 101 choices and decisions confronting you. My job is to narrow them down and then I like to play a game with my clients called “Pick your Favorite” afterward, I explain my design process, what had attracted me to each choice and how it fits in with the overall design style.
Does the Interior Designer have a particular style they like to work with and where do the find their inspiration?
Perhaps we can relate this question to actors. Does your favorite actor play similar roles, such as Gangsters, or do they diversify and try to play something new and exciting? For me, I have an appreciation for every style of interior design, as seen in my ongoing blog “Find your Interior Design Style” (Link)
My interior design business is located in my home town of east Fort Lauderdale. As a very young designer (a Boy), my first love and inspiration were from Miami’s Vizcaya Museum (Link) with its Mediterranean Revival architecture and it’s Tuscan Italian Renaissance influences. Soon after I learned about Addison Mizner (Link) who took the Mediterranean style and incorporated it with the Spanish Colonial Revival.
After moving my interior design business to Ocean Reef Club and having lived there, I began to appreciate the elegant but laid back feeling of the British Colonial / Bahamas style mixed with the colorful Tropical / Caribbean decor. I also love the simple, clean balance of a Modern Coastal Style.
I love to accent today’s contemporary architecture with built-in interior design elements. For me, I need to warm up the Contemporary style with color, texture, and perhaps some ethnic components such as my “Zen-Balinese Contemporary” as seen below, or mixing it all up with a more “Eclectic Style” (Link)
Firstly, I find my inspiration from my client’s vision for their home as well as the architecture. I ask my clients to gather images of interior design styles that speak to them and then make a wish list.
I am a people pleaser, and I feed on the camaraderie between my client and designer. This is so evident that I have turned down three invitations to participate in HGTV programs.
Gain insight on the Interior Designer’s Aesthetic
Here are a few questions that might help disclose the designers personality and aesthetic -
Which of the Designer’s interior design / home remodeling projects was their favorite?
For myself, it would be the “Zen Balinese Contemporary” and the other would be the “Modern Coastal”
What is the designers favorite colors they use in their interior design projects?
Once again being an Interior Designer located in Sunny South Florida my largest inspiration comes from the tropical environment. Therefore, I love the aqua blue-greens from the ocean, silver accents like the reflective sun off the water, the coral red, and all balanced with white and black accents.
What are the Interior Designer favorite travel destinations?
Perhaps with no surprise after going up on Fort Lauderdale Beach that for the ultimate travel experience I don’t wander too far from the ocean. I love it all from the party beach atmosphere of the Greek Isles to the serene and exotic beaches of Bali.
What is the Interior Designers favorite room of all time?
Going back to actors and movies, A podcast I listen to loves to ask the guest “What’s your favorite movie” I can relate to the guest when they respond with “I can’t just name one”.
I think the best way to answer that is by suggesting that you view some of my blog pages such as “Find Your Interior Design Style” (Link) where I share examples of some of my favorite rooms in each style or my blogs on “Design Inspirations” where we will explore beautiful estate homes or “Movie Set Designs” where I point out some interesting design elements through set design.
Ask the Interior Designer how do they communicate their vision?
This is an important one and communication is key. I find that working with a presentation board is crucial for both myself and as a tool for the client to visualize how all of the elements come together not only in the interior design process but also with the architectural remodel.
The presentation board for each room will illustrate some of the fabrics and color choices, drapery and window treatments, built-in cabinetry, wall and ceiling treatments, lighting such as chandeliers and sconces, furniture, rugs, accessories, and even artwork. As for any architectural home remodeling that is required, the presentation board may show floor plans, molding details, stone and tile, flooring, and any architectural details.
Please see my blog link below -
Working with and Interior Designer and Presentation Boards
Ask Designer what services their firm offers
Some Interior Designers only offer purchasing services on their client’s behalf. With my background in the arts, interior design, and architecture (I am not an Architect but can provide one if needed) I can visualize your complete interior design project, kitchen remodels, and any home remodeling needs. Most of my contractors have been with me for years and are like family. My services range from coordinating between my client and the architect and/or the custom home builder, complete kitchen design and remodel, custom or production cabinetry, wall and ceiling treatments, full interior design services down to the art and accessories.
Please refer to my page “Services” (Link) and my blog “Working with an Interior Designer” (Link) where I have more information on the relationships between the client, architect, custom home builder/contractor, and interior designer.
How does the Interior Designer charge and budget
This is a complex question because every interior designer has their own preferred method.
Interior Designer’s Hourly Fee:
Many designers charge by the hour. However, I don’t think this is fair to the client. Over time as the hourly and monthly invoices begin to accumulate, and the client may feel like they are being abused regarding their open checkbook.
Interior Designer’s Fixed-Rate:
Another form of invoicing is a fixed-rate where the designer charges one fee to oversee the entire project. Fixed rate agreements have the opposite effect whereas the project may take more time than the designer had allotted the outcome suffers.
Interior Designer’s Percentage Over Cost:
This is a method used to be very popular before the 2009 recession. Interior Designers would be privy to a substantial industry discount and receive wholesale pricing. After the recession vendors greatly deduced or ended wholesale pricing and now with online pricing, billing has become more complex.
My Method of Invoicing for Interior Design Services:
Being a Libra - I like to be balanced, fair, and flexible when it comes to billing practices. First of all, I have never charged for an hourly fee, I believe what is most fair and flexible is a combination of a design fee and an adjustable percentage over cost fee.
My number one priority is open communication and trust with my client. My contract starts with a 50% design deposit where I begin to show you the interior design decor and any home remodeling needed for your home. Upon your approval of the interior design scheme, I receive the balance of the design deposit and start to price items and build a budget. Pricing will include my retail price to you and although I can’t always match online pricing I try to be within 20% and considering the services and delivery that I include. This way both the client and designer are protected step by step. I always try to stretch my clients budget and give you bang for your buck, Its makes me look amazing and my client's home exceeds their expectations. I do this with my ability to purchase wholesale through my suppliers and contractors. With detailed planning, we also reduce the cost made from mistakes and re-dos.
As for the budget, I love when clients ask me what the budget will be for their interior design / home remodeling project - My reply is that it’s similar to buying a car, when you go out to buy a car you know what you want to spend. Therefore the budget is up to you, you tell me your budget and then we will prioritize all of the elements needed for your project.
I hope that the above “Questions to ask before hiring an Interior Designer” give you some insight durring your interview with a prospective interior designer.
As aways feel free to contact me with any questions or comments,
Marcus Mars
754-234-4789