Definitely agree that being upfront about your priorities is the way to go, even if it feels nitpicky. When we did our kitchen reno, I actually brought a whole binder of magazine clippings and paint swatches to our first meeting. My designer looked a little overwhelmed at first, but she later told me it made her job easier because there was no second-guessing about what I wanted.
One thing I’d add: before signing, ask how they handle changes or disagreements. Some designers are super flexible, others get thrown off if you change your mind midstream. Also, check how transparent they are with pricing and sourcing—if you want to know exactly where everything’s coming from, make sure they’re cool with that level of detail.
If you ever feel like you’re being “too much,” remember you’re the one living with these choices for years. I’d rather be a little extra now than regret something later. And honestly, a good designer will appreciate your honesty (even if they tease you about your spreadsheets).
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
That’s a good point about transparency—when we did our living room, I was surprised how much sourcing mattered to me once we got into the weeds. I wanted reclaimed wood and low-VOC finishes, but not every designer seemed comfortable tracking down those materials or even knew what I was talking about. One firm actually tried to talk me out of it, saying it would “limit their creative options.” That was a red flag for me.
I’m curious if anyone else has run into pushback when asking for sustainable or non-toxic options? It feels like some designers are all-in on green choices, while others just see it as extra hassle. Did you find your designer was open to that kind of thing, or did you have to compromise?
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
Honestly, if a designer’s not comfortable with sustainable stuff, that’s a red flag for me too. It’s 2024—finding low-VOC or reclaimed wood isn’t that hard if you know your suppliers. Sometimes it just takes a bit more legwork, but it’s doable. I’ve had clients ask for even more niche things (mushroom leather, anyone?), and it just comes down to willingness to research. If a designer pushes back, I’d wonder if they’re just set in their ways or maybe not that interested in learning new things.
I get where you're coming from about sustainability, but I don’t know if it’s always as straightforward as “just do more research.” Sometimes the supply chain is a mess, or the budget just doesn’t stretch far enough for every eco-friendly option. I’ve had designers say they can source reclaimed wood, then the timeline balloons because the stuff isn’t actually available locally.
You mentioned,
I’m not sure it’s always reluctance—it could be practical limits. That said, I do want someone who’s at least willing to explain those constraints instead of just saying no.“If a designer pushes back, I’d wonder if they’re just set in their ways or maybe not that interested in learning new things.”
Curious, though—how much weight do you put on a designer’s actual experience with sustainable projects versus just their willingness to try? Would you take a risk on someone new to it if they seemed motivated enough?
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
Totally get what you’re saying about the real-world limits. I’ve run into the reclaimed wood issue too—everyone loves the idea, but when it comes time to actually source it, you’re either waiting forever or paying through the nose.
Here’s how I look at it:
- Actual experience with sustainable stuff matters, but I care more about whether they’re honest about what’s doable. If someone’s new to eco-friendly design but upfront about learning and clear on what’s possible, I’d give them a shot.
- Willingness to try is great, but if they can’t explain the process or potential roadblocks, that’s a red flag. I’d rather hear “here’s why that won’t work on your timeline/budget” than just a flat “no.”
- Sometimes you want the person who’s done it before so you don’t end up being the guinea pig. But if your project isn’t super high-stakes, taking a chance on someone motivated can pay off.
Honestly, I’ve seen “experienced” designers mess up basics just as much as newbies. It really comes down to communication and whether they’re willing to problem-solve with you.
