Title: What Should I Look For Before Signing With An Interior Designer?
Trust really is the foundation. I’ve seen too many projects go sideways when expectations aren’t clear from the start. Here’s what I’d add to your point, just from experience:
- Transparency is non-negotiable. If a designer can’t give you a straight answer about costs, timelines, or process, that’s a red flag. The “boring paperwork” is actually where a lot of headaches get avoided later.
- Communication style matters more than people realize. Some clients want daily updates, others prefer a weekly check-in. I always ask up front how involved someone wants to be—otherwise, it’s easy for wires to get crossed.
- Portfolio is only half the story. Sure, you want to love their aesthetic, but ask about projects similar to yours. A designer who’s done a dozen high-end kitchens might not be the best fit for a budget-friendly rental refresh.
- References are underrated. I know it sounds old-school, but talking to past clients can reveal a lot about how a designer handles hiccups. No project ever goes 100% to plan—what matters is how issues get resolved.
- Contracts and scope. This one’s not glamorous, but it’s crucial. Make sure it’s clear what’s included (and what’s not). I’ve seen misunderstandings over things like who’s responsible for permits or furniture delivery spiral into big problems.
I’ll admit, sometimes I wish the “look” was all that mattered, but the logistics and trust piece are where most of the real work happens. Had a client once who loved my mood boards but got nervous when we hit a snag with a backordered sofa. Because we’d talked through contingencies ahead of time, it was a quick fix. Without that groundwork, it could’ve been a mess.
Portfolios are fun to scroll, but the behind-the-scenes stuff is what keeps everyone sane.
I’d add one more thing that’s often overlooked—ask about their approach to materials and sourcing. I once worked with a designer who had a great eye, but didn’t care much about sustainability or indoor air quality. Ended up with cabinets that off-gassed for weeks... not fun. If you care about eco-friendly choices or non-toxic finishes, make sure that’s part of the conversation up front. It’s not just about the look—it’s about how the space actually feels to live in, day after day.
It’s not just about the look—it’s about how the space actually feels to live in, day after day.
That’s a great point, but I’d actually argue that sometimes the “feel” of a space goes beyond just materials and air quality. I’ve seen projects where the designer focused so much on eco-friendly finishes that they missed out on natural light, flow, or acoustics. For me, it’s about balance—ask about their process for integrating all those elements, not just what’s in the paint or cabinets. A healthy home is also one that inspires you and works with your daily rhythms.
Honestly, I totally get what you mean about balance. I once worked with a designer who was obsessed with “sustainable everything”—which sounded great, but the space ended up feeling kind of cold and echoey. The materials were top-notch, but there was zero warmth or flow. I realized later I should’ve asked more about how they handle things like lighting and room transitions, not just the eco-credentials. It’s wild how much those little details end up mattering when you’re actually living in the space day-to-day.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR BEFORE SIGNING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
That’s such a good point about the “cold and echoey” vibe. I’ve run into that myself, especially when designers get laser-focused on one aspect—like sustainability or minimalism—without thinking about how the space actually feels to live in. There’s definitely more to a home than just the materials or credentials.
One thing I’ve learned is to ask for examples of their previous work, but not just the glossy photos—try to get a sense of how those spaces functioned for real people. Sometimes, a room looks amazing in a portfolio but doesn’t translate to daily comfort. Lighting is huge, like you said, and so is acoustics. I once built out a living room with all reclaimed wood and concrete floors... looked great, but it was like living inside a drum until we added rugs and some fabric panels.
I’d also say don’t be afraid to talk about your routines—how you move through the house, where you like to relax, even what kind of gatherings you host. The best designers I’ve worked with ask those questions up front. It’s not just about the look; it’s about how it all works together when you’re actually living there.
