Picturing the best way to use space or match colours is not a skill that we all possess. Starting with a blank canvas can be intimidating, especially if you’re about to spend cash on new furniture and fittings.
The ideal solution is to hire an interior designer. Their engagement might add a little more to your renovation budget, but you’ll benefit from their skills and experience in creating wonderful living spaces.
While we occasionally encourage clients to use an interior designer to “stage” their property for a sales campaign, you don’t need to be selling to make the most of their skills.
A great interior designer can enhance the experience and enjoyment of your home.
Always hire a university or TAFE-qualified designer. They should be genuinely interested in you and your family, your lifestyle aspirations and your ideas. Avoid anyone who pushes the latest trends regardless of the preferences you’ve expressed.
Find out more about the role of an interior designer and how they might work with you:
Their role
An interior designer will provide advice on furniture, decorations and colour schemes for your entire home or a specific room. In a major renovation, they’ll work with a builder and architect.
Be cautious
Make sure you have a good rapport with the designer so that you don’t feel as though you are living in someone else’s idea of a home at the end of the project.
How to hire
You should invite three interior designers to quote and offer some ideas. Seek out recommendations from trusted friends and family to begin your search. Ask each candidate to provide references and examples of their work. You need to feel comfortable with your successful candidate.
The process
A designer will meet with you at your home and workshop ideas that capture your personal preferences and tastes.
Scope of work
They’ll deliver sketches, layout design and offer an estimate of costs before the work begins.
Sourcing
A designer will work out a selection of colour schemes from which to choose, and pick out appropriate lighting fixtures and furniture. They will also make these purchases for you.