An interior designer is responsible for ensuring the functionality, efficiency, and safety of a space within the home or other building while being involved in decoration tasks. An Interior designer requires a good understanding of construction, lighting, colour, and furniture. Interior designers are qualified to make structural changes to your home, and are able to do the interior decorating of the home to better suit the needs of the client. Interior designers will ensure that the new interior will match the architecture of the home and that the inside and the outside of the building work together. This may include relocating a kitchen or a bathroom for better access and functionality.
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Interior design is usually broken down into two main categories, residential and commercial. Within these general areas, there are additional specialties such as, kitchen designers and bathroom designers.
A complete design service is when an interior designer does all the aspects of a renovation. This is the design, planning, and project management of a new building, renovation, or refurbishment.
The services included are:
When you think about hiring an interior designer for the first time, two concerns may come to mind:
"It's too expensive and a designer will try to impose a style that doesn't reflect my personal taste."
Both these concerns are myths. A designer can save you time and money in the long run by managing your budget and hiring contractors that they trust and know. With a wide range of resources at their disposal, interior designers can frequently obtain products at a discount.
Although many designers enjoy tackling a project with creative carte blanche, most want the homeowner to contribute ideas. So first you need to understand that for all the expertise and creative ideas that an experienced interior designer can offer, there are two questions you need to answer. What do you want, and how much do you want to spend? Once you've figured those things out, you'll be ready to begin the process of hiring an interior designer.
1. Ask family and friends, even co-workers, for recommendations. Check online for reviews for specific designers.
2. Schedule meetings to review their portfolios and talk about your expectations and budget.
3. Check all their credentials and references.
4. Get clarity on exactly how they charge for services. Some designers will work for a flat fee; others charge by an hourly rate plus a commission; and some will only work on commission
5. Look for an interior designer who is willing and able to work on your terms.