155: Reasons to Hire an Interior Design Consultant.
When I’m introduced as an interior designer, I usually correct and say that whilst I help you with your interior design - I won’t do it all for you.
I’m an Interior Design Consultant, so I don’t project manage. But what I do instead, is give you all the tools you need, breaking down the process into manageable parts so that you can take ownership of the project.
After all, I can pull together a space based on what you tell me - but no one knows you better than you, and I want you to feel great about what you’ve created. I want you to have more input, learn a few new skills, and feel at home in your space. That’s why I work with you, not for you.
Think of me as your trusted interior design friend - like a personal trainer but for your home. I’ll offer guidance, expertise, and valuable insights to enhance your space in a way that works with your lifestyle and doesn’t compromise on aesthetics.
So here’s how I actually help:
Flexibility:
Depending on your needs and budget, you can hire me for:
a single consultation where we can brainstorm some ideas,
for support in bringing a room together with styling
or for a full design service that helps you develop and bring your vision to life.
Visual and spatial planning:
I know that visualising a finished space can be hard to do - or you may have lots of ideas but you need to refine them. So let me take your ideas and pull them together in a design scheme - then I’ll show you a picture of it.
We can develop it until you get the blueprint for your finished room and you’ll know exactly what to aim for - a design that can make the most of the space you’ve got.
Drawing of the proposed design scheme and the completed room - a visual blueprint!
Objective advice:
If you want my opinion - you got it!
My clients check in with me every step of the way, from where to position a wall light to my opinion on a sofa they want to buy. I’m here to offer some reassurance that the choices you are making are good ones. This means you can get comfortable with your own style and develop your eye for design. I’ll help you assess your space as you move through the project, suggesting improvements, and recommending any changes or options that will give you the room you want.
DIY Support:
If you want to be a bit more hands-on (and I fully encourage this) I can provide you with knowledge and guidance to execute your ideas. We’ll problem-solve and find suitable and cost-effective DIY options, I’ll research them and provide you with your own step-by-step guides.
For these built-in bookcases - my clients were given a step-by-step video talking them through the process
Motivation:
I’ll help you make informed decisions that align with your vision. I won’t handle the entire project but I will be there with gentle reminders to keep you going with your next steps to your room finished, so you can feel less overwhelmed and more excited to come home.
You see there’s a lot I can help with, but there are a couple of things I don’t do:
Project Management:
I’ll give you all the tools and ideas you need but the delivery of the project is up to you. You’ll need to carry out the work, ensure the budget is in hand and co-ordinate with any trades. But don’t forget to keep me in the loop because I’ll be there to offer support to keep you on budget and on track.
Special Supplier Discounts:
Sorry! I’d love to offer you the option of high-end artisan furniture and amazing supplier discounts but realistically, I want you to learn how to spot things you love and source your own furnishings so that when I’m no longer working with you - you’ll still be able to create spaces you love. That means we shop the high street and find items that are easily available to you.
So that’s it, in a nutshell, and if you’re thinking about hiring an Interior Design Consultant, I’d love to hear from you!
