Sometimes designers just work right up to that ceiling, no matter what, and you end up with less flexibility or missed opportunities.
That’s a fair point. I’ve seen it happen too—when a client sets a hard budget from the get-go, some designers will treat it as a target rather than a limit. It can box everyone in before you’ve even explored what’s possible. I usually recommend starting with a list of priorities and must-haves, then having an open conversation about what those things might cost. That way, you’re not immediately shutting down creative options or value engineering before you even get started.
References are tricky as well. A glowing review doesn’t always translate to a good fit for your style or communication preferences. I’d say pay attention to how the designer listens during your first meetings. Are they asking thoughtful questions? Do they seem genuinely interested in how you live? That tells you a lot more than any portfolio can.
At the end of the day, there’s always a bit of gut instinct involved. If you feel like someone “gets” you and your vision, that’s usually a good sign—even if their references are just average.
