Dan Harrington
Finding the right interior designer for your home renovation or decorating project can seem like a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, how do you know which designer is the best fit for your style, budget and needs? Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to find an interior designer who understands your vision and can bring it to life.
First, determine what exactly you need from a designer. Are you doing a full home remodel or just looking to redecorate a few rooms? Do you want help with furniture layouts and selections or mainly with paint colors and window treatments? Being clear about the scope of work will help narrow your search to designers who specialize in those specific areas.
Next, come up with a budget and communicate it upfront to potential designers. Quality designers may have higher hourly rates but can end up saving you money in the long run through discounts on furniture purchases and access to trade-only products. If you have a tight budget, look for up-and-coming designers who offer great service at more affordable rates.
Ask friends, neighbors or coworkers if they have worked with an interior designer and liked their work. Personal referrals are one of the best ways to find reputable professionals with proven work you can see firsthand. Online review sites like Yelp can also point you toward designers with consistently positive feedback from past clients.
Look at portfolios online to get a feel for different designers’ styles. Focus on those with projects similar to yours in terms of size and scope. For example, if you’re remodeling a kitchen, pay special attention to designers with extensive experience in that space.
Schedule initial consultations with three to five designers whose work seems promising. Come prepared with photos, floor plans, swatches and other inspirations to give them a sense of your aesthetic. Take note of how well they listen and communicate during this first meeting. You want to work with someone who understands your needs and provides thoughtful ideas and solutions.
Ask prospective designers about their qualifications, pricing structure and availability. Look for those with accredited design degrees and experience working on projects like yours. Make sure you feel comfortable with their fees and timeline before signing a contract.
Finding Chicago interior designers who match your style and exceed your expectations is possible if you do the research. Focus on designers who specialize in your type of project and have the qualifications, referrals and portfolio to back up their expertise. With the right designer partnership, you can bring your interior design vision to life!
