In a word: vision. They can see the big picture, and they know it’s all in the details that pulls a space magically together. If you are not happy with your current space, you’ll avoid costly mistakes, overwhelm and time by working with a design professional.
Designers love to create beauty. It’s in their DNA. They also love to share that beauty with others. I get goosebumps anytime I find the perfect hue or wallpaper. Seriously. It happens so often, some of my clients wait for it! “Did you get goosebumps?” Like this time in 2021, while working on a dining room color scheme with my realtor friend, Vanessa.
That same room. A few months later…
There’s a certain joy we get as designer professionals. Most of us want to share that joy with everyone. Creating beautiful spaces at home changes lives. I couldn’t have said that three years ago, but now that we’re living through a continued global pandemic, it’s become clear that our surroundings in fact, do affect our moods, productivity, and health. A well-loved, defined space that speaks to your life is like the gift that keeps on giving.
I can’t afford a designer!
Is it costly to hire a designer for a big project? It can be, but then again, think about the project without a trained eye leading the direction. It can be overwhelming. You want to scream because you’re tired of trying to find just the right color, sofa, table, chair, rug, hardware, decor, furniture arrangement, etc. That’s when I usually get the phone call. There’s a sense of panic! Help me!! Now!!! Experience, relationships with vendors, contractors, installers, and most importantly, designers bring their passion for beautiful spaces to the table. I know I do!
How much is it going to cost?
Start with a realistic budget for the project. Consider everything like furnishings, labor (painters, tilers, contractors). The design fee will be anywhere from 10-35% of that total. That can cover the cost of one bad mistake, sometimes.
If you think you’re good on your own, and you know a thing or two about space planning, color schemes, texture and creating a mood, by all means, go for it! However, if you’re struggling or nervous about doing anything because you’re afraid you’ll make the wrong selections and you don’t want to waste your money, then consider an interior designer and let go of the stress. You deserve a space that grows with you, not against you.
I hate to sound like a L’Oreal commercial, but you are worth it. Remember, Dorothy learned this the hard way: “there’s no place like home.” Word.
