WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
I get where you’re coming from about communication style, but honestly, I’d argue portfolio matters more in the end. You can have all the rapport in the world, but if their aesthetic or technical skill set isn’t up to par, you’re just not going to get the results you want. I’ve seen some designers who are great communicators but their execution falls flat—especially when it comes to custom millwork or complex lighting plans. I’d rather work with someone a bit blunt who delivers flawless work than someone super friendly who misses the mark on details. Just my two cents...
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
I get what you’re saying about portfolio being king, and yeah, I’d never hire someone whose work didn’t make me go “yep, that’s what I want in my house.” But I’ve learned (the hard way) that communication style can make or break the whole process, especially if you’re a detail person like me. Had a designer once who was a total genius with layouts and finishes, but getting updates out of her was like pulling teeth. I’d have to chase her down for weeks just to find out if my tile had even been ordered.
That said, technical skill is non-negotiable. If they can’t handle the nitty-gritty—like making sure your custom cabinets actually fit or that the lighting plan doesn’t leave your kitchen looking like a cave—then it’s just not worth it. I always ask to see examples of projects similar to mine, not just the pretty photos but the behind-the-scenes stuff too. If they can walk me through how they solved tricky problems, that’s a good sign.
One thing I wish I’d done earlier is check references, not just for the finished product but for how the process went. Did they stick to timelines? Were there budget surprises? Did they answer emails before you started growing gray hairs? That kind of thing.
At the end of the day, I want someone who’s got both: killer skills and enough communication that I’m not left in the dark. If they’re a little blunt but get things done right, I can live with that... as long as they don’t ghost me halfway through demo.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
I’ve been burned before by someone who had a killer portfolio but couldn’t manage a schedule to save their life. On one project, we lost weeks just waiting for answers about materials—cost me more than a few headaches (and dollars). Now, I always ask for a clear project timeline and get it in writing. If they can’t give you a rough schedule or seem vague about process, that’s a red flag. Also, I like to see how they handle changes mid-project. Flexibility matters, but so does sticking to the plan.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
I get the need for timelines, but honestly, I care just as much about their sourcing—especially if they’re open to eco-friendly materials or upcycling. Some designers are super creative with what’s already out there, and that can save time and money too. Sometimes the process gets a little messy, but if they’re transparent and passionate about sustainable choices, I’m willing to be a bit flexible on the schedule. Not everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s worked for me.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
That’s a good point about sourcing. When we built our place last year, I thought I’d be all about the timeline and sticking to the budget, but halfway through, I realized what really mattered was how well the designer “got” our style—and whether she could handle my weird requests (like using my grandma’s old dresser as a bathroom vanity). She was game, but some designers I talked to before just wanted to start from scratch with everything shiny and new. Not my vibe.
On the eco-friendly front, I tried to push for as much upcycling as possible. My designer had a few local contacts who could refinish stuff or hunt down vintage pieces, which ended up being way more fun than just picking things out of a catalog. But I’ll say this: it does take longer. Like, way longer sometimes. There were weeks where nothing happened because we were waiting for someone’s cousin to finish restoring an old door. If you’re patient and not in a rush to move in, it can be worth it.
One thing I wish I’d paid more attention to was how the designer communicated—some folks are super responsive, others not so much. Ours would text me photos from salvage yards or send random ideas at midnight. I didn’t mind, but my partner got tired of the “guess what we found today?” updates.
If you’re open to a little chaos and surprises along the way, working with someone who’s passionate about sustainable choices can be pretty rewarding. Just know that sometimes your living room might look like a thrift store exploded before it all comes together... but hey, that’s part of the charm, right?
