Common Mistakes in Hiring an Interior Designer – Part 2

1.  NOT ESTABLISHING A BUDGET:

• Do not start a project without establishing a budget first!
• Make sure your budget for the work includes all the design fees, taxes, delivery charges, and other costs, so you don’t end up over-spending.
• Make sure your designer is getting multiple bids for all custom remodeling and construction work.
• Do not pay any money to an interior designer for construction work unless they have a valid state contractor’s license. Ask to see it, and check it out with the State Licensing Board.
• Pay all contractors and sub-contractors directly, do not give the money to the designer, and get a release of lien when their work is done.

2.  UNPREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED:

• Things you want are not always available. They may take longer to obtain than anticipated and may cost more.
• When demolishing existing interiors, surprises can be found that will take longer and can cost more. Establish a contingency fund for the unexpected.
• Delays on a project can cost more because the contractors are charging for their time. So is the designer!
• Be prepared to compromise, to keep the project moving along on time and on budget.
• Listen to the design professional who will guide you through the entire process.

3.  UNAWARE OF THE TRAUMA OF REMODELING:

• When planning a remodel with your designer, remember you live or work there!
• If you need to move out temporarily and can do so, you should!
• If you can’t move out temporarily, prepare for being overwhelmed if the work is extensive. Dust, noise, lots of people in the way!
• Don’t get in the way, and don’t supervise.
• Use your professional designer to get you through this.

4.  NOT LISTENING TO THE PROFESSIONAL:

• Remember, you hired a professional interior designer, so listen to them.
• If you don’t like what they are telling you, or the designs they are showing you, maybe it’s time to end the relationship.
• The designer should only have one customer. You! Don’t let other family members or work colleagues give instructions, especially without your knowledge, otherwise you will be undoing the designer’s work, or getting things you don’t want. Either way it will end up taking more time and costing more.

Have you made any of these Common Mistakes in Hiring an Interior Designer?  Contact Us today to represent your case at 305-326-0330.

Thanks and credit is given to the California Council for Interior Design Certification for this article.