Making the Most Out of Your Design Consultation
6 Tips for a Great Interior Design Consultation
Designing a space, be it residential or commercial is a team effort between you and your design team, and there is a wonderful balance between high design and personal expression that can be created with this collaboration.
There are so many moving pieces involved in the interior design process, and attention to detail is key. I’ve learned a lot from other designers, past clients, and even myself, about what makes the design process turbulent or smooth.
The first step for any great design process is a really good, pre-design meeting or what’s commonly known as the initial consultation. This is a “getting to know you” event. One where your designer listens, and you talk. This meeting is about educating your designer on all things you. Your ideas, your style, your wants, your needs. There will be plenty of time for the designer to share his or her vision. However this experience about you…and we’re all ears.
Here are 6 Tips for a great interior design consultation, to ensure an efficient and educational meeting, which in turn will create an enjoyable and inspiring experience, for you and the creation of your new space!
Start Early.
…Like pile of dirt early. It's never too soon to begin. The best results come from a blank canvas. Having your interior designer on board from the very beginning is imperative in producing the best results.
Set a Budget.
This is a tricky one for most clients. When it comes to the budget…set it and forget it. Pick a number (any number) that you are comfortable with as a total dollar investment. If your expectations and wallet aren’t in the same neighborhood, your designer will let you know.
Be very clear about your likes & dislikes.
Details are important. Make it clear that you HATE the color red or the look of mid-century furniture. Create a Pinterest Board, tear out pictures of rooms, furniture, colors and fabrics that you like from magazines. The more you share, the more tailored and precise the design presentation will be and don’t be embarrassed or expect any judgment from the designer. It is our job to curate a look that is unique to you
Talk about yourself… We want to know.
Tell Us About Your Daily Rituals & Habits. Do you always throw your purse by the front door when you come home? Do you practice yoga in your living room? Plan on having a puppy — or a baby? The answers questions like this help formulate a design, that will accommodate, and often times enhance your routine, so be as descriptive as comfortably possible, and then….let’s make it amazing!
Be Realistic.
Even though that gorgeous white sofa is calling your name…and loudly, if you have an active family, and this will be relaxation central, or if you are the type of person who can’t keep coffee in the mug and off the seat, then maybe we should look for another option.
Have Fun!
This is a special time in your life. Designing your dream space is an experience. Make it enjoyable!