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The many selections required when building a new home can be both exhilarating and overwhelming to the buyer. As in other areas, hiring a professional to guide design choices can help the construction process run more smoothly. Should you hire an interior designer, and if so, how much value is added overall to the home decorating process? The following pointers may help guide your decision.
What does a designer do?
You likely have design ideas you would like to incorporate into your new home, but may not know how to put them together in a cohesive way to make the home uniquely yours. A skilled designer helps hone the vision you have for your home and collaborates with you to create and execute a plan that brings that vision to reality. Designers have a skill set that combines creativity with technical and managerial know-how.
A professional interior designer can:
- Work with you to create a design concept for your new home.
- Conceive and generate the actual design plans.
- Establish a budget.
- Select and design furnishings, finishes, and materials.
- Handle project management.
- Purchase and install furniture, art, and accessories.
Why hire an interior designer?
Interior designers have established trade relationships and connections that give them access to products and services you wouldn’t be able to access on your own, and can often get discounts that are not available to the public. They understand not only the art and science of good design, but also the nuts and bolts of pulling a look together.
The benefit in hiring a designer will be quickly evident. A designer can:
- Save you time and money by getting work done right the first time.
- Offer professional assessments.
- Provide access to equipment and materials.
- Simplify the project by handling the details.
- Create a “wow” factor by showcasing your personal style in a unique way.
How much does a professional designer charge?
Each designer is different, and may charge for services in a variety of ways:
- Hourly rate.
This works best for small, uncomplicated projects that have a low risk of complications leading to out-of-control costs. - Fixed rate.
A fixed, or flat rate, is a single price negotiated at the start for all of the work, materials, and other expenses. This helps customers stay within a set budget by knowing exactly how much they are going to pay. - By the square foot.
This type of pricing is often used by commercial designers. Some designers start with a minimum charge for the work involved and the customer either pays the minimum or the fee for the actual room size, whichever is greater. - Cost-plus.
This refers to the cost of the products purchased plus an agreed-upon mark-up. The markup, usually around 20 percent, covers the design services.
Regardless of the financial arrangement, many designers require a retainer or deposit before any work begins. Design fees or management fees may also be assessed.
Can you afford to hire an interior designer?
Interior designers offer different levels of service, ranging from a basic design consultation to generate ideas, to a design plan you implement yourself, to comprehensive design service that covers everything.
By choosing a consultation or a plan, you can have the benefit of the designer’s expertise without the expense of full design services.
As with any contractor, get at least three quotes to choose from, and consider employing designers with certification from the American Society of Interior Designers to ensure the integrity of the designer and the quality the work. Ask to see photos of their work to assess how their style speaks to your own design aesthetic.
