Friday 24 February 2012

How to pick the right interior designer.

If you can get your hands on the Feb 2012 copy of The English Home magazine, check out the article on choosing an interior designer...


It talks about the importance of tailor-made services becoming increasingly popular as we lead busier and busier lives.
In the U.S. it's common to hire an interior designer but we Brits are still a little hesitant apparently.
Maybe it's the fear of spending a lot of money on someone we percieve will just pick out a few paint colours and re-arrange the furniture for us...?



The article accepts that we can't all be skilled stylists and that putting a room together successfully can be a difficult task and suggests taking time to find a designer that suits your needs, just like you would a builder, plumber, etc.
It suggests 'interviewing' a selection of candidates through an initial consultation so that you can get to know each other without commiting to anything....many designers offer this part of their service for free.
Looking at a selection of their previous jobs to establish how they may fit your own needs.
Seeking recommendations from family and friends.
Checking if they are members of recognised professional bodies and whether they have the right insurance in place to protect you and your property.



Check how each designer charges for their work...some work on hourly rates, some on a fixed fee basis, some on a combination of fees.
Be ready to discuss what it is you want and how much you are willing to spend.

Some simple and straightforward advice for anyone contemplating the services of an interior designer.

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