Couldn’t agree more about the “artisan” claims—seen way too many catalog pieces passed off as custom. One thing I always check is how they handle changes mid-project. Had a guy once who just froze up when we hit a snag with tile delivery... cost us weeks. If they can’t roll with the punches, it’s a headache waiting to happen.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I once worked with a client who wanted a “one-of-a-kind” dining table, only to find the same piece in three other homes that year—just with different stains. The real test, though, is how someone handles curveballs. I had a project where the wallpaper arrived damaged, and instead of panicking, my team and I brainstormed alternatives on the spot. Flexibility’s everything. If someone can’t adapt, it’s just stress for everyone.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
That’s a really good point about flexibility. I’m in the middle of my first custom build, and honestly, I didn’t realize how much could go sideways until I was knee-deep in decisions. I totally agree—being able to adapt is huge. But I’d also add that transparency matters just as much. For me, it helped to ask for a detailed breakdown of their process before signing anything. Like, what happens if something’s out of stock? How do they handle unexpected costs?
I get wanting something unique, but sometimes designers have “signature” pieces they reuse, which isn’t always a bad thing if you love their style... but it’s worth asking about up front. One thing I wish I’d done: ask for references who had projects with hiccups, not just the smooth ones. That tells you way more about how someone handles stress than any portfolio ever could.
It’s definitely a learning curve, but being thorough at the start saves so many headaches later on.
One thing I wish I’d done: ask for references who had projects with hiccups, not just the smooth ones.
That’s a great point. I learned the hard way that a designer’s portfolio only shows their highlight reel. When our tile shipment got delayed by weeks, I realized I should’ve asked more about how they handle setbacks. It’s easy to look good when everything goes right, but you really see someone’s true colors when things go off-script. Next time, I’ll definitely dig deeper into their problem-solving approach.
It’s easy to look good when everything goes right, but you really see someone’s true colors when things go off-script.
Totally agree—when stuff hits the fan, that’s when you find out what your team’s made of. I’m curious, has anyone actually asked a designer how they handle budget surprises? Feels like that’s another spot where things can get messy fast.