Trends come and go, but living comfortably (without breaking the bank) sticks around.
That’s the real trick, isn’t it? I’ve seen folks get talked into all kinds of “must-have” features that just end up gathering dust. You’re spot on—finding someone who gets your lifestyle is way more important than chasing what’s hot right now.
WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?
Funny thing, I once worked with a couple who were dead set on having a sunken living room because they saw it in some fancy magazine. Looked cool, sure, but after a year, they told me it just became a tripping hazard and a pain to clean. It’s easy to get swept up in what’s trendy, but honestly, the best projects I’ve seen are the ones where the designer really listens and digs into how you actually live day-to-day. Trends fade, but comfort sticks around.
WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?
First thing I always tell people: figure out what you actually need before you start looking for a designer. Are you after a full custom build, or just tweaking an existing plan? That makes a big difference in who you should hire. Some folks get caught up in portfolios and glossy photos, but honestly, if the designer isn’t asking about your routines—like how you cook, where you drop your keys, whether you hate stairs—they’re missing the point.
I’ve seen too many people regret chasing trends (sunken living rooms are classic for that). I’d say interview at least three designers. Ask them how they handle changes mid-project. Do they have experience with homes similar to yours? What’s their process for incorporating your feedback? If they can’t answer those without dancing around, move on.
And don’t get hung up on credentials alone. The best fit is someone who listens and pushes back when needed—not just a yes-person. That’s where the real value comes in, even if it means skipping the “wow” features from magazines.
Totally agree about not chasing trends—seen too many people regret those choices down the line. One thing I’d add: don’t underestimate chemistry. If you can’t have an honest back-and-forth with your designer, it’s going to be a headache. Sometimes the “best” designer on paper just isn’t the right fit for your vibe.
“Sometimes the ‘best’ designer on paper just isn’t the right fit for your vibe.”
That’s spot on. I’ve had projects where the client picked a big-name designer, but communication was a struggle from day one. The drawings looked great, but if you can’t talk honestly about what works and what doesn’t, it turns into a slog. I’d rather work with someone who really listens and isn’t afraid to push back when needed. It saves everyone time and headaches down the road.
