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Interior decorators and designers can help you make the most of your space and stylize your home for everyday living. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Zach M.)
Interior Designers and Decorators
An interior designer is tasked with creating usable and aesthetically pleasing architectural spaces inside a physical structure. Interior design professionals typically study the behaviors and movements of individuals in the working and living environment in order to create spaces that are both attractive and functional. Interior designers know and understand the current design trends in the industry and can help guide homeowners through the process.
RELATED:Contractors Talk Home Remodeling Trends for 2015
Interior designers may also perform the interior decorating work on the spaces they design. An interior decorator, by contrast, does not design the space in which he or she works. Instead, interior decorators focus on the furnishings, wall and floor treatments and artistic touches that provide ambience and atmosphere to the interior space.
Differences between hiring a designer vs. a decorator
Many interior design professionals are employed by construction or architectural firms and work in conjunction with builders and architects to design usable spaces for a variety of human activities. In other cases, interior designers may be called upon to create a functional and beautiful set of interior spaces for a private home. Generally, however, interior design experts work for builders and contractors rather than directly for private individuals.
Interior decorators are typically hired by homeowners to improve the aesthetic appeal of an existing space. These interior decor experts usually specialize in commercial or residential spaces and may use lighting, wall treatments, flooring, furnishings and accessories to create a look pleasing to the owner or manager of the space in question.
Benefits of hiring an interior designer or decorator
The services of a qualified interior designer are crucial in order to create usable spaces for working and living. Contractors and builders depend on these professionals to provide advice on a variety of ergonomic and acoustic issues and to help in the design of lighting and traffic flow patterns that make sense in the specific interior environment.
Homeowners can benefit significantly by enlisting the help of an interior decorator when remodeling or revamping their living and working areas. Interior decorators are knowledgeable about the effects of color and the right use of accessories to create an illusion of greater space or to provide a cozy, comfortable environment for everyday living. Interior decorators can also help homeowners avoid common decorating mistakes.
Education and Licensing
Most interior designers acquire, at a minimum, a four-year degree in their chosen field; many successful interior designers elect to complete a master's or doctoral degree in interior design. This formal education provides the interior designer with a solid grounding in safety issues, basic architectural principles and the application of state and local building codes to ongoing projects.
Interior design students take courses in computer-aided design (CAD), ergonomics, the visual effects of color and texture and managing temperature control in enclosed spaces. After graduation, many aspiring interior designers serve an apprenticeship in order to gain practical experience in the field.
Licensing is required by 24 states as well as Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Even in states where this is not required, interior designers can elect to take the licensing examination offered by the National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) to certify their own qualifications in the field. Continuing education is required to maintain certification by the NCIDQ.
Licensing requirements
While licensing requirements vary from state to state, typically these requirements include a combination of education and experience in the interior design field. For instance, New York requires seven years of combined education and work experience. Practical experience must constitute at least two years of that total. New York also requires that interior design applicants pass all three sections of the NCIDQ examination in order to be licensed in the state.
Benefits of licensing
Licensed interior design specialists have expert knowledge in the field and have undergone training in building and fire codes, accessibility requirements, OSHA regulations, ergonomic considerations and a wide range of other relevant factors that can affect the success of an architectural project.
Homeowners can hire licensed interior designers with confidence, as these highly qualified individuals have already demonstrated their competence and practical skills by achieving this advanced certification.
List of all be verbs. Education, accreditation and licensing for interior decorators
Interior decorators require no formal training. Some interior decorators choose to pursue a degree program in the field. These educational qualifications can often command a higher price in the competitive marketplace. Certification programs are available from several organizations including Certified Interior Decorators International, the Decorators Alliance of North America and the Designer Association of America.
Applicants must typically pass a written test to achieve certification from these organizations. Certification is usually permanent and requires no continuing education or retesting in order to maintain certified status.
Benefits of hiring a certified interior decorator
Certification provides a degree of assurance for consumers that the interior decorator has experience and knowledge in the field. Because there is little official regulation of the interior decoration industry, certification can often be the best available indicator of the professional credentials and knowledge possessed by an individual interior decorator.
Interior designers maximize space in a home with furniture placement. (Photo by Jessica Anderson)
Interior Trends for 2015
Just like with fashion, interior design and home décor trends go in and out of style. Take wallpaper for example. It wasn't too long ago that wallpaper was considered 'out of style,' yet interior decorators now say hanging wallpaper is a hot trend.
Other popular trends include adding undermount sinks in the kitchen or bathroom, adding custom storage to fit individual needs and removing walls between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. Check out the full list of Top Interior Design and Home Decorating Trends of 2015, because some of them might surprise you.
Wallpaper accent walls are a top trend for 2015. (Photo by Darcy Barrett)
Home Design and Décor Ideas
While you may not want to change your home's interior décor or design annually, redecorating makes your home feel new again. You can decide to go big by changing everything from furnishing to wall colors, or go small by adding a few items here and there.
Here are a few popular ways to change your home’s interior:
Statement rugs: Make a rug the focal point of a room or hallway.
Use paper:Bold prints and geometric designs make wallpaper one of the most popular ways to update and redecorate a room.
Mix and match: Mix and math metals, bedding or an antique with traditional or contemporary décor for interesting appeal.
Off the wall: Take furniture off the wall and move toward the center for an intimate vibe.
Furniture facelift: Give furniture a new look by reupholstering with a new color, print or texture.
New neutral: Replace commonly used neutral colors with gray. The color can be used in any room in the house for a modern appeal.
Knock it down: Removing walls between the kitchen and adjoinging rooms dramatically changes the look of a home.
Bedroom ideas
It's the last room you see before going to sleep and the first one you see when you awake in the morning, so create a bedroom that appeals to your tastes. Transform your bedroom’s décor with these ideas.
Color: Decide whether you want to create a Zen-like environment, country theme or tropical paradise. Use paint or wallpaper to create a new look.
Bedding: Freshen up your bedroom with a new duvet or comforter and matching pillow shams, decorative pillows and a bed skirt.
Furniture: Add a chaise lounge, trunk or intricately designed nightstand.
Accessories: Lighting fixtures and artwork.
Kitchen ideas
It's typically the busiest room in a home. Keep your kitchen fresh with these décor ideas.
Maximize space: Creative cabinetry such as toe-kick or sliding drawers, or hanging pots and pans from the ceiling are great ways to make better use of space.
Open shelving: Turn the kitchen into a showpiece by using open shelving for storage instead of cabinets.
Open concept: Remove a wall betwene your kitchen and living room to make your home more functional.
Window treatments: Windows in the kitchen don’t have to be bland. Dress up windows by adding curtains, blinds, etc.
Tile it: Make a statement by using textured tile for the backsplash or flooring.
Home design and décor ideas
While you may not want to change your home's interior décor or design annually, redecorating makes your home feel new again. You can decide to go big by changing everything from furnishing to wall colors, or go small by adding a few items here and there.
Here are a few popular ways to change your home’s interior:
Statement rugs: Make a rug the focal point of a room or hallway.
Use paper:Bold prints and geometric designs make wallpaper one of the most popular ways to update and redecorate a room.
Mix and match: Mix and math metals, bedding or an antique with traditional or contemporary décor for interesting appeal.
Off the wall: Take furniture off the wall and move toward the center for an intimate vibe.
Furniture facelift: Give furniture a new look by reupholstering with a new color, print or texture.
New neutral: Replace commonly used neutral colors with gray. The color can be used in any room in the house for a modern appeal.
Knock it down: Removing walls between the kitchen and adjoinging rooms dramatically changes the look of a home.
Bedroom ideas
It's the last room you see before going to sleep and the first one you see when you awake in the morning, so create a bedroom that appeals to your tastes. Transform your bedroom’s décor with these ideas.
Color: Decide whether you want to create a Zen-like environment, country theme or tropical paradise. Use paint or wallpaper to create a new look.
Bedding: Freshen up your bedroom with a new duvet or comforter and matching pillow shams, decorative pillows and a bed skirt.
Furniture: Add a chaise lounge, trunk or intricately designed nightstand.
Accessories: Lighting fixtures and artwork.
RELATED: Kids' Room Ideas: Best Interior Trends for 2015
Kitchen ideas
It's typically the busiest room in a home. Keep your kitchen fresh with these décor ideas.
Maximize space: Creative cabinetry such as toe-kick or sliding drawers, or hanging pots and pans from the ceiling are great ways to make better use of space.
Open shelving: Turn the kitchen into a showpiece by using open shelving for storage instead of cabinets.
Open concept: Remove a wall betwene your kitchen and living room to make your home more functional.
Window treatments: Windows in the kitchen don’t have to be bland. Dress up windows by adding curtains, blinds, etc.
Tile it: Make a statement by using textured tile for the backsplash or flooring.
Living roomideas
The living room is the window into your home. Here are some décor ideas that add pizazz to your living room.
Accent color: No need to be afraid of bold colors. Use bold colors as an eye-catching accent color throughout the living room.
Light: Use interesting light fixtures or lamps as art while also creating ambience.
Slip covers: Slip covers are an easy, cost-effective way to change the look of furniture without the cost of reupholstering.
Pillows: Throw pillows in interesting patterns or colors provide a new look in seconds.
Window treatments: Try new curtains or replace curtains with blinds and valances.
Art: Make a large piece of art a focal point in your living room décor.
Bathroom ideas
Bathrooms don't have to be boring. Whether large or small, create a bathroom you won't want to leave with these décor ideas.
Mirror, mirror: Mirrors aren’t just for utilitarian purposes. A mirror can double as art when sconces are placed on either side, or a strategically placed mirror creates more light.
Tile: Use tile to create a decorative backsplash.
Accent wall: Use wallpaper, tile or paint to create an accent wall.
Splash: Add a splash of color throughout for a refreshing look.
Texture: Create depth by adding 3-D tiles or textured wallpaper.
Mix it up: Mix prints and textures for an interesting look.
The blue oven in this kitchen adds a unique touch. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Jay W. of Seattle)
Interior Décor Styles
Art Deco: The predominate style of decorating during the 1920s and 1930s, Art Deco uses bold colors, geometric shapes such as chevrons and arcs. Art Deco regained popularity in the 1960s.
Arts and Crafts: Also known as Mission in the United States, Arts and Crafts began in England toward the end of the 19th century during the Victorian period. The style highlighted expertly crafted furniture over mass produced furniture of lesser quality.
Asian: This minimalist style incorporates design philosophy such as Feng Shui and elements influenced by Japanese and Chinese culture. Asian-inspired style includes natural elements, such as plants and water to create balance.
Coastal: Think easy, breezy beach living with colors that bring to mind the sand, water and sky. Furniture is comfortable and easy to maintain and wood floors are ever present.
Contemporary: Developed in the late 20th century, Contemporary décor encompasses current styles of the time. Characterized by clean lines that are curved rather than straight, open spaces, walls and furniture in neutral colors and bold accent colors. Contemporary design often uses chrome and metallic colors as well as accent walls and large pieces of art.
French: Known as French Country or French Provincial, the style takes its cues from the countryside of South France and influenced by the Baroque period. French Provincial uses bold colors, toile fabric, elegant and ornate design juxtaposed with rustic features such as exposed wood ceilings and beams.
Eclectic: Mixes and matches décor styles from different periods, but unified through color, texture and furniture size.
English Country: Whether formal or casual, English Country is always inviting. It combines traditional furniture, floral chintz fabrics, patterned wallpaper and plenty of books and bookshelves. Surfaces are decorated, and portraits of horses and dogs adorn walls.
Mediterranean: Characterized by colors that are influenced by the sky, sea and sand, Mediterranean décor incorporates olive greens, golden yellows, reds and cobalt blues along with pottery, tapestries and mosaic inlays. Floors are usually dark hardwood, terra cotta or marble and furniture often includes intricate carvings.
Mid-century Modern: Recalling decoration and design from middle of the 20th century, Mid-century Modern uses clean lines with minimal décor. Graphic, patterned wallpaper and statement lighting are cornerstones of this style.
Modern: Often confused with Contemporary, Modern interior decorating style actually is quite old and is a style of its own. Modern interior decorating incorporates styles that are current at the time. Developed in the 1920s by the German Bauhaus school of design, Modern includes clean lines and neutral colors and emphasizes function.
Moroccan: A blend of styles from Spain, Portugal and France, and African, Islamic and Persian influence create this décor style. Reds and oranges as well as blues and greens dominate the color scheme. Pillows in luxurious fabrics often accompany low-set furniture.
Shabby Chic: The no-fuss interior décor style was coined 'Shabby Chic' by fashion designer Rachel Ashwell in the 1980s. Shabby chic incorporates large comfortable furniture, a pastel color palette and wooden accessories that look well worn.
Traditional: An interior décor style that creates a timeless look regardless of current trends. Furniture is symmetrically placed, the color palette consists of warm neutral colors and accessories match.
Transitional: Marry Traditional and Contemporary to create an elegant and classic but comfortable look. Clean lines, warm neutral colors and simple, but elegant window treatments comprise Transitional interior décor.
Tropical: This interior decorating style uses colors and foliage found in tropical climates. Furniture is made from natural fibers such as bamboo and rattan.
Western: Incorporate colors found in nature such to create a Western interior decoration style. Use natural materials, accessories from Native American tribes and artwork that recalls life on the ranch.
An Interior decorator can help you pick a style that fits your personality. (Photo by Jessica Anderson)
DIY Decorating
Redecorating doesn’t have to break the bank. If completely revamping your home isn’t in the budget, small changes make a big difference. Think of adding or changing the color of throw pillows, replacing light fixtures and cabinet hardware or adding a fresh coat of interior paint.
Hgtv
Looking to decorate on a dime? Check out these DIY decorating tips.
Throw pillows are inexpensive and can give any room a much-needed pop of color. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Jeff F. of Miami Beach, Fla.)
Hiring an Interior Designer or Decorator
Typically, most homeowners will never need the full range of services provided by an interior designer, unless they choose to design and build their own home. However, the principles for choosing the right interior design specialist remain the same for both interior designers and interior decorators.
Here are a few questions to ask before making a hiring decision:
• Can you estimate how long the project will take?
• Are you certified or licensed to work in this state?
• What services will you perform?
• Do you have a portfolio of previous work?
• May I contact your references?
• Are you certified or licensed to work in this state?
• What services will you perform?
• Do you have a portfolio of previous work?
• May I contact your references?
Of these questions, the last two are often the most critical to the success of the project. Looking over the portfolio and asking relevant questions about the projects can provide a better perspective on the process and allow greater insight into the overall philosophy of the designer or decorator. It is also important to get in touch with the references provided by the interior designer or decorator. Finally, it's important to hire an interior design pro that you feel comfortable working with.
RELATED: How to Have a Positive Relationship with Your Interior Designer
Prospective clients should ask these types of questions:
• Were you happy with the job the designer or decorator did for you?
• Was the project finished on time?
• Were there any unexpected or unexplained financial charges associated with the project?
• Would you hire the designer or decorator again in the future?
• Was the project finished on time?
• Were there any unexpected or unexplained financial charges associated with the project?
• Would you hire the designer or decorator again in the future?
MORE: 3 Key Qualities of an Interior Design Pro
How much does it cost to hire an interior designer or decorator?
Interior design services are typically more expensive than comparable services provided by an interior decorator. Consumers should ask a few questions about the financial arrangements before committing to a project with an interior designer or interior decorator.
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• Are all additional charges and overages covered by the initial quote?
• Who pays for unexpected expenses if they arise?
• What compensation is available if the project is not finished on time?
• What specific payment arrangements do you require?
• When will payment be due on the project?
• Who pays for unexpected expenses if they arise?
• What compensation is available if the project is not finished on time?
• What specific payment arrangements do you require?
• When will payment be due on the project?
Both interior designers and decorators typically charge a fee for an initial consultation, but you may be able to have the fee subtracted out of the project cost if you end up hiring the interior pro. Expect to pay $100 to $200 for the consultation. Interior jobs are often priced by the hour, so you could pay anywhere from $50 to $500 an hour, depending of the scope of the project.
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Experts Share 2019's Biggest Home Trends
As much as we're suckers for new trends when it comes to fashion and beauty (hello, mesh turtlenecks and vibrant hair colors), often, we forget they can apply to our homes as well. Sure, we're not about to buy a brand new bedroom set every season, but there are still ways we can work trends into the spaces we've slowly curated over the years to make them feel fresh and current.
That's why we asked four of our favorite interior designers for their predictions on what home looks will be big next year. Gallery walls, shades of blue, and metallic accents are just some of the things we'll soon be spying everywhere, from Instagram to the pages of Architectural Digest. Read on for the rest of their suggestions, plus our tips for how to easily and economically incorporate them into your abode.
Most homeowners spend between $2,008 to $4,927 nationally.
Get free estimates from local contractors who can Hire an Interior Decorator or Designer.
Get free estimates from local contractors who can Hire an Interior Decorator or Designer.
There are countless reasons to hire an interior designer or decorator. These skilled and creative professionals can upgrade a newly purchased home to give it a fresh look or totally revamp your current home for that long-awaited update. Before you hire an interior designer, use this guide for a clear picture of the costs, how designers get paid and any related expenses.
If you're looking for that professional eye, let us help you find an interior designer near you!
National Hire an Interior Decorator or Designer Costs
Enter your zip code to see specific costs in your area.
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$75
Minimum CostAverage Range:
$2,008
$2,008
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$4,927
National Average Cost | $4,735 |
Minimum Cost | $75 |
Maximum Cost | $15,000 |
Average Range | $2,008 to $4,927 |
How do we get this data? This info is based on 1620 cost profiles, as reported by ImproveNet members.
Table of Contents
Interior Designer Cost
Hiring an interior designer can be a serious investment, but many homeowners feel that the interior designer cost is well worth a beautiful and tastefully-decorated home. Sadly, the cost to hire an interior designer varies based on numerous factors (discussed later). However, looking at more than 1,500 interior design projects across the country, the average interior design cost is $4,776, with most homeowners paying somewhere between $3,407 and $5,143.
Interior Designer Cost Structures
One of the reasons prices change from designer to designer is their cost structure. Unlike other pros who only charge an hourly rate, interior designers and decorators can charge by the hourly, by a fixed rate, by square footage or by room. To determine an accurate interior design price, you should consider all interior designer cost structures:
Hourly Costs
The most common way to hire an interior designer is via an hourly wage. Prices range from $50 to $150 per hour, but you are not locked into any contract. You can halt the deal whenever you want.
The hourly cost structure is often considered the best option if you’re working with a new designer because it allows you to get a feel for their work slowly, rather than spending a lot for a look you don't like.
Flat Rate
To keep things simple, other homeowners go with a flat rate for interior design projects. This fixed rate covers the entire project, including labor, materials and other various expenses. If you’ve worked with a specific interior designer in the past, we recommend this structure since you know their level of expertise.
This structure also works for those worried about budget. Unlike hourly wage, you know exactly how much you’re going to pay. The price should not change once agreed on.
Square Footage
Very similar to a flat rate, some designers charge by the square footage. Once they see your project, they will provide a cost per square foot. This interior designer cost should include all cost variables such as labor, time and materials. If you’re working on a small interior design project, some designers may charge a minimum fee to meet their requirements.
Whole-Room or Whole-Home
The final way to hire an interior decorator is by room or by home. You pay an agreed-upon price, give some suggestions and also give a deadline. The decorator then buys any necessary furniture or paints and decorates the space as determined by your one-on-one meetings. While this is the more expensive route, it can produce cohesive and attractive results in any home.
Cost Factors Of Interior Designers
Besides the chosen cost structure, there are other factors that can increase or decrease the cost of an interior designer. You can only control a few of these, but knowing all price factors will ensure you find the best interior designer for the lowest possible cost:
Size of Project
Of course, it costs more to design an entire house as opposed to one small room. More work requires more time, which in turn, requires more money. Nonetheless, if you plan on redesigning other areas of your home in the near future, we highly recommend you consider doing it all at once. As an example, one project that covers 1,200sf will cost less than three separate projects that total the same square footage.
Reputation
Expertise comes with a price. Rookie interior designers may charge as little as $50 an hour, but experienced pros can charge up to $200 an hour. Since most interior design or decorating projects take at least 10 hours to complete, that price difference per hour really adds up.
In addition, interior design firms with connections and discounts with local vendors may be able to offer lower rates compared to inexperienced designers.
Timing
Always plan ahead. No matter what design or remodeling project you plan on completing, it’s always best to plan ahead. Decorators and contractors are busy. While they may be able to move their schedules around, the rearranging does not come without a price. The sooner you need work done, the more it’s going to cost.
Materials
Some interior design projects just require new paint, while others call for all new furniture. Well, shopping and researching for the right pieces takes time and more often than not, your designer will come up with options for you. If you let them, this will add to your interior design cost. On the other, if you find pieces for them, you save on hourly costs.
Software
Finally, most interior designers use modern technology to show you what your home will look like once completed. Some designers have their own software, but others pay for a subscription. That cost gets put onto you. So, while modern technology certainly helps you visualize your updated space, it does come with a cost.
On the other hand, there are plenty of interior design resources any homeowner can use, some of which are free!
Interior Designer Discounts
When it comes to decorator costs, all homeowners should have a basic understanding of interior designer discounts. In essence, these are discounts designers get when they purchase from various vendors. However, that discount is rarely passed on to you.
For example, a beautiful piece of furniture or a closet organizer may cost $300 from a store. Your interior designer may be able to grab that piece for as little as $250. Sadly, the cost to you is still $300. Some designers use this money as their payment, but others don’t.
This is called cost plus in most interior design contracts. If they added, make sure they go over all details before signing.
Interior Designer Vs. Decorator
Most people think of designers and decorators as one in the same, but when you look at the specifics, you can see they are quite different.
Designers
The more experience title falls to designers. They have to attend and graduate from an accredited college or university and then complete a design internship. They also have to pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification exam to get an interior design license.
In terms of working with homeowners, designers know building codes, construction requirements and architectural best practices to ensure you have a beautiful and functional home. All this expertise makes interior designers more expensive then interior decorators.
Decorators
Decorators come in to dress up the space, providing a more aesthetically-pleasing update. More often than not, they work with existing homes and recommend new paint colors, window treatments or non-structural elements. Additionally, decorators are often used for staging as home.
Unlike a designer, a decorator requires no formal education or certification. Therefore, they should always cost less than interior designers.
Benefits Of Interior Designers
Now that you know what goes into becoming an interior designer, why should you hire them? Besides being trained experts in design, they have also have studied the equivalent of interior architecture. In addition to selecting fabrics, colors, furniture, flooring and window treatments, they’re experienced in drafting and drawing and offer services such as space planning, barrier-free design, kitchen and bath design, custom cabinets, furniture design, furniture plans and lighting plans. Clearly, they know all there is to know about interior design.
Besides their vast education, many interior designers are members of a professional society, such as the American Society of Interior Designers (more of the associations later). Finally, in some states, licensed or certified interior designers are allowed to obtain building permits.
Interior Design Associations
Most professional interior designers are part of various associations. Just like you belong to various professional groups, interior designers typically belong to one of the following associations.
- The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): The oldest and largest association of professional interior designers in the world. There are 49 chapters with global membership.
- The National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ): An independent organization created in the public interest to establish minimum standards for the qualification of professional interior designers. It has qualified over 10,000 interior designers since 1974.
- The California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC) & Certified Interior Designers (CID): Applicants must pass certain educational requirements and/or have seven years of related business experience. In addition, the applicant must pass a three-hour exam in building and barrier-free codes administered by the NCIDQ. Other states have similar certification programs.
Working With An Interior Designer
If you’ve decided to work with a professional interior designer, there are some basics you should know. We’ll cover everything from how to find the best designers in your area and the contract to actually shopping with your pro and designing your dream home.
Before you hire any pro, you must get multiple quotes. Not all interior designers charge the same price, but that doesn’t mean you should always choose the cheapest designer. Oftentimes, the lowest price comes with low quality.
Once you sign the letter of agreement, you and your designer with have a slow walk through the home. He or she will take pictures and measure everything. Once initial drawings have been approved, your designer will go over a list of items they envision for your home.
Then, once all plans are approved, the designer will help you find local contractors to complete the work. They too will get multiple bids to find the right contractor for the job.
Most importantly, do not lose your voice in the process. They are the pros, but you are living in your house. If you’re unsure of something, have the interior designer narrow down your choices. You’re the boss and ultimately, everything needs your approval.
For more tips on working with a designer, please see Hiring An Interior Designer.
Interior Design Preparation
Once you hire the right designer for your project, it helps to prepare. Just like an interview, you should know your answers before the questions are asked:
- Set Your Budget: You need to determine what you want to spend and what you can actually spend. Always veer on the cautious side as your designer may try to spend more than you can afford.
- Seek Inspiration: Whether it’s Pinterest, magazines or home remodeling websites, gather pieces or rooms that inspire you. Save them all, as every image helps your interior designer figure out your perfect home.
- Speak Up: If you like Feng Shui design, speak up. You know what you like and don’t like. As we said earlier, you are in charge. Take control of the process and don’t let the designer overpower you. They are the professionals, but you are the one living in the home.
DIY Or Hire A Pro?
As you have read above, there are numerous benefits to working with interior designers. Of course, the major drawback is the cost. Some of us can’t bring ourselves to spend $4,776 on an interior designer. Luckily, there are websites, apps and other resources out there to help all DIY designers. Continue reading to see which ones are best for you.
Color Wheel Of Interior Design
If you’re going at it on your own, you have to know all colors available. Enter, the color wheel of interior design (above). A designer would undoubtedly show you the color wheel throughout the designing stage. That’s because different color tints can bring out different emotions in different rooms. Don’t believe us? See what our own color psychology research came up with:
- Green Bedroom: Tranquility and health
- Pink Girl’s Room: Calming and warm
- Lavender Living Room: Calms the nerves, allows relaxation
- Blue Office: Most productive color
- Yellow Kitchen: Increases metabolism, brightens room, gives you energy
Interior Design Software & Apps
As technology evolves, so does the interior design arena. It’s hard seeing passed that ugly wall or behind that grungy fireplace, but just like most HGTV shows, there are apps and websites out there to help you visualize your final product. Software is constantly changing, but luckily, our friends at Home Stratosphere found 23 of the best interior design resources for 2017. Our favorites are:
Find An Interior Designer
Hopefully you learned a thing or two about interior designer costs, what they do, what they bring to the table and how you can tackle a design project on your own. While we admire those DIYers, most homeowners prefer a professional eye. In you fall into the latter category, we can help you find the find interior designers in your city!
Last updated on Jul 30, 2018
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