If you are redecorating your home, you need to hire an interior designer. When you do an internet search for designers in the Elmhurst area, you will find many different names, and choosing one can be challenging. Before you hire a designer, you should interview several of them. According to daraagrussdesign.com, there are five questions you should ask.
1. Can You Work for My Budget?
Money is an awkward subject for anyone. It can be embarrassing to admit that you do not have enough money to buy something a professional is recommending. However, you must tell your decorator how much money you have to spend on the project and let them know that you cannot go over budget.
You should have a written agreement with them that states your budget. Make sure they can work within your price range. Some decorators may offer financing. If you really want a decorator but cannot afford their rates, consider having them design fewer rooms.
2. Do You Have a Relationship With Local Furniture Designers and Contractors?
An experienced and well-established decorating business should regularly work with local designers and contractors. They should be able to get discounts on furniture and contracting work. If the designer works with a certain contractor regularly, the designer should be able to vouch for the contractor’s work.
It is always nice to add a custom piece of furniture to your home. If your designer works with local furniture makers or craftspeople, they may be able to arrange for a custom-made piece of furniture or an accent such as a lamp or rug that will not cost you a fortune.
3. What Services Do You Provide?
You may think that all designers offer the same services, but that is not true. Some designers simply decide where the furniture that you buy will go in your house and how to arrange it. In other cases, they will ask you what pieces of furniture you want, and then they will shop for you. Sometimes, they will ask you what colors and styles of furniture you like, and they will use the budget you have given them to shop for you and furnish your apartment.
4. Can You Provide References?
Never work with a designer who cannot provide references. Online reviews do not provide enough information to choose a designer. Ask for the phone number or emails of former clients willing to vouch for them.
Ask to see their portfolio. They should have professionally taken photos of the other homes that they have decorated.
5. What Styles of Design Have You Worked With?
You and your designer must see eye to eye. You should have similar tastes when it comes to home design. They should have experience working with the design style you want. For example, if you want a traditional look and they have only worked with modern industrial design, you may not be a good fit for one another.
