Improving functionality and updating appearance are the primary reasons homeowners seek to renovate a space. You want your home to be beautiful and reflect your personal style, while also meeting functional needs. Unfortunately, this is often a bigger challenge than most homeowners realize! Even if it’s a relatively small project, hiring an interior designer will make the entire process easier and yield the best possible results. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before hiring an interior designer:
Is an interior designer right for your needs?
It’s important to fully understand the role of an interior designer before hiring one. Both interior designers and decorators work to improve the style and visual appeal of a space. They are different in that decorators only address surface projects (furniture, décor, fabrics, paint, etc.), and interior designers are more capable of handling layout and functionality issues. It’s a good idea to specify exactly what your needs are before starting the hiring process.
Is a design-build Firm a better choice?
If you have a large-scale project, or are looking to complete a ‘full-gut’ remodel, it may be in your best interest to work with a design-build firm instead of an independent interior designer. Most design-build firms (such as Medford Remodeling) already have an in-house interior designer, which adds great value to their services.
Together, the firm and the interior designer can create custom drawings and 3D renderings to help you visualize what your remodeled space will look like. They can draft full sets of plans and elevations required for city permits, work with a structural engineer if the project involves moving walls, help you select the right fixtures, materials and finishes to reflect your style, manage and track purchase orders, and be sure that everything is done correctly and to code. Having a design-build firm oversee a renovation project from design to construction is the best option for a large-scale project that may be overwhelming to an interior designer alone.
Is it important that an interior designer is licensed?
Many states, including Texas, require interior designers to pass the national NCIDQ exam and become licensed in order to use the title ‘Interior Designer’. They can also be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) accredited, called LEED AP, which signifies that they have a thorough understanding of sustainable and environmental building standards. Whether you choose to hire an interior designer based on his or her license or accreditation is completely up to you, although it is sometimes better to research the designer’s reviews and past projects to help guide your decision.
How much does an interior designer charge?
Usually, interior designers are paid on an hourly basis, and rates tend to vary based on location, accreditation, experience, etc. You can probably get a realistic estimate for your area and the type of project you need help with by doing some online searches and calling different designers for quotes.
If you’re looking to renovate your home, it’s a good idea to consider hiring a professional interior designer or a notable design-build firm! Medford Remodeling has a qualified team of professionals as well as a polished interior designer to help you with every step of your project! Contact us for more information!
Warm regards,
The Medford Remodeling Team
