SHOP THE LOOK
You may have said to yourself, I can design my living room! So, with all your ambitions, you’ve searched through every form of media, internet and print. You’ve spent hours wandering the aisles of your local furniture and home decor shops. You attempted to create a mood board, but something is still missing that you just can’t put your finger on. It may be time to hire an interior designer. Whether you are looking for a refresh or starting from scratch on a whole house re-design, home projects can feel overwhelming. Many of us can make a room look pretty, however with the expertise of a certified interior designer your home will become not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional for the whole family.
No matter your age or stage of life, working with an interior designer can be indispensable. Young families, empty nesters, or even folks adapting their home to ‘age in place’ can benefit from a talented interior designer who knows how to transform a space and bring your vision to life. Designers are able to do it all! From space planning and furniture floor plans to selecting a great durable fabric for the chair your dog loves to sleep on, no matter how many times you tell him no.
FINDING THE PERFECT PARTNER
The key to developing a successful working relationship is finding the person you connect with, who understands your tastes and needs. A great designer will take the time to get to know your personality, ask the right questions and listen to your answers. They should be able to anticipate how incorporating specific design elements into a project can transform any room into your favorite space in the house! Interior design is so personal, they want to get to know you and your family. When he or she comes to your house, they will pet your dog and ask how your daughters final exams went.
Choose a designer who is associated with a foundation, such as ASID (American Society of Interior Designers). This ensures you will be working with someone who is certified and has all the necessary credentials. They will be up to date on the latest design trends and industry standards, as well as connected to a network of talented professionals. Renovating or remodeling can be costly, interior designers aid in not creating mistakes. They can help you save money with their industry connections and trade only discounts. A trained interior designer can create professional mood boards and designs that make them invaluable.
Not only will a professional interior designer save you money, but also time. And you know what they say, time is money. A designer has the ability to envision your blank slate as a finished product from first glance. They know the process of taking your space to completion and the order which things should be done.
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Form Meets Function
What's the point of that great sofa if it's too deep and your feet don't touch the ground? Or that gorgeous etagere you just had to have, but now can’t find a place for anywhere? Costly mistakes happen when impulsive purchases are made or when decisions are not based on a room’s functionality. A designer will guide the decision making process to avoid mishaps, often saving money.
Serving as your advocate and the bridge between you and your contractor, builder and architect, your designer knows the right questions to ask. They are trained to notice things you may not, making sure fixtures, lighting, cabinets, etc are carefully planned so the project stays on track. And, since mistakes can happen, your designer should be the one who steps in to right the ship on your behalf should issues arise.
It’s A Matter Of Style
With so much information and room inspiration at your fingertips, it's easy to start ‘liking everything’ you see. When photo after photo is styled perfectly it can be difficult to hone in on your individual look. With access to trade-only furnishings and customizable pieces, designers are experts at combining multiple decorating styles, colors, textures and patterns to achieve beautiful results. Yet, they also have the vision to incorporate favorite pieces you already own, or family heirlooms with special sentimentality, to assure your home stays true to who you are.
A talented designer’s trained eye and wealth of knowledge will guide you through the maze of choices to create a space that you can’t wait to come home to - your gorgeous sanctuary that is uniquely you!
