Certified Interior Decorated Dee Hurford is kind enough to share her tips with you, our lovely readers
Working with an Interior Design Professional
When most people hear the words “Interior Decorator”, they immediately see dollar signs. Working with an interior design professional (interior decorator or designer) is not just for the rich.
An interior design professional can create a successful design on almost any budget. If you are struggling with what to do in a particular room or you just bought a home and don’t know where to begin, consider using an interior design professional to get you started.
Here are a few tips to let you know what to expect when working with an interior design professional:
Inform and Advise: All interior design professionals offer a consultation to meet with you and see the space(s). Some, like my company, offer this service at no charge. It is at this first meeting that the decorator will inform you of the services they offer and will give minimal advice on how to proceed with your project. The key to a successful relationship with your design professional is communication. Be clear about what you like and don’t like. This will help your decorator deliver a space that you will be pleased with for years to come.
A la Carte Services: Interior design professionals can offer as much or as little assistance as you need. You can work on only one room, certain facets of a room, like color or lighting, or an entire home. Some decorators offer color consultations or one day design services apart from their full services. (Dee Hurford Designs offers “Decorator for a Day” service at a flat rate) The scope of this service will vary based on the design professional.
Liaison: Based on the needs of your design project, your interior design professional may recommend or refer you to other professionals to assist in completing or taking on certain facets. Your decorator can save you the headache of dealing with multiple people by acting as the liaison all the while keeping you well informed, on time, on budget, and happy.
Discounts: Most interior design professionals have access to extensive discounts with most retail stores and outlets that deal with interior decorating and design. Most are happy to pass on their entire savings or some savings to you as a client. (Dee Hurford Designs offers discounts via participating vendors).
Whether you have worked with a design professional in the past or are considering working with one for the first time, remember that it is your project and your home. You must be happy with the process and the ultimate outcome. Good communication is the key to a successful relationship with your interior design professional.
Are you working on a project and need help or have questions? Contact Dee Hurford – she’ll be happy to help you along the way.
