Checklists
Checklist provided by JT Interiors |
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How to find an Interior Designer - word of mouth is always a great place to start, a recommendation certainly gives you more confidence. Most designers have websites, local magazines are also a good place to look. | |
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Specialities - some companies specialise in a particular style ie: shabby chic. Clients who use their services are buying into their look, and using them because they are experts in creating that kind of style. Other designers will take a broader view and be able to turn their hand to the preferred style of the client. | |
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Portfolio - it is always a good idea to have a look at the company's portfolio to see the kind of schemes they have come up with, and the look and feel of a finished project. By asking questions you will also be able to establish how much of the scheme they were able to provide ie: did they use their own decorators? | |
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Testimonials - there is no substitute for talking to previous clients and maybe visiting their home to see a finished project. This will give you a chance to touch and feel the final finish and ask lots of questions. | |
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Face to face meetings - it is really important that you get on with your designer or project manager in the case of larger jobs. Visit their offices and meet the team, it's a great way to find out if you will all be able to get along and work together! | |
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No surprises - a good interior design company will have a clear fee structure. Make sure you understand what each stage of the project will cost - no matter how small, and what are the exit points along the way. Even if you just want a pair of curtains, make sure you understand what the estimates will include ie: fitting poles and hanging the curtains. | |
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A good reason for using an interior designer is to save money. So many people make costly mistakes and are keen for a future project or individual purchase to be right for them and at a price they can afford. Using an interior designer helps avoid the pitfalls, opens up new ideas and also gives you access to their buying power- they can usually beat the retail prices. | |
