WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
I’ve heard stories where designers push their own style pretty hard, and the homeowner ends up with something that doesn’t feel like “them.”
This was my biggest fear! I actually made a Pinterest board and shared it with my designer before we even signed anything. If they’re not excited about your vibe, that’s a warning sign. I wanted my place to feel like “me,” not like a magazine spread. If you feel steamrolled in the first meeting, it probably won’t get better later.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
That’s a smart move with the Pinterest board. It’s wild how some designers just want to make everything their own personal showroom, right? I’d also say—if sustainability or eco-friendly materials matter to you, bring that up early. Some designers get it, others don’t. You deserve a space that reflects your values and your vibe. Don’t settle for someone who just wants to use the trendiest stuff if it doesn’t feel like home. Trust your gut... if you’re not feeling heard, there are plenty of others out there who will listen.
Trust your gut... if you’re not feeling heard, there are plenty of others out there who will listen.
I get the whole “trust your gut” thing, but honestly, I’d put more weight on checking their actual portfolio and references. Pinterest boards are great for inspiration, but seeing what a designer has *actually* built tells you way more about their style and flexibility. I’ve seen folks get burned by designers who talk a good game but can’t deliver on the practical stuff—like staying on budget or working with existing structures. Trendy is fine, but function matters way more in the long run.
seeing what a designer has *actually* built tells you way more about their style and flexibility.
Totally agree—photos of finished work and real client feedback are way more telling than mood boards. I’d also add, don’t be afraid to ask how they handle curveballs. Stuff always comes up mid-project, and a designer who can pivot without losing their cool is worth their weight in gold. I’ve seen projects saved (or sunk) by how folks handle the unexpected.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
- Finished work matters, but don’t just look at the pretty photos—ask about the budget and timeline for those projects. Some designers can make anything look good if they’ve got unlimited time and money, but that’s not real life.
- Communication style is huge. If they’re slow to respond or vague in early conversations, it won’t magically get better once you sign a contract.
- Ask how they handle changes mid-project. I’ve seen designers who freak out over a backordered tile or a client changing their mind on paint color. The good ones roll with it and keep things moving.
- Check if they actually visit the job site regularly. Some just send emails and expect the builder to figure it out... that never ends well.
- References are great, but try to talk to someone who had a hiccup during their project. That’s where you see what the designer’s really made of.
Honestly, I’d rather work with someone flexible and practical than someone with a perfect Instagram feed. The glossy stuff is nice, but it doesn’t tell you how they’ll handle real-world messes.