WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?
I get what you’re saying about making it personal, but I always wonder how to balance that with budget. Like, I’d love to go wild with some statement pieces, but the price tags on custom stuff can be scary. I’ve talked to a couple of designers and sometimes it feels like they push for “unique” just to rack up costs. Maybe that’s just my paranoia, but I don’t want to end up regretting an expensive choice just because it looked cool in a showroom.
When I started looking, I made a list of what I actually needed help with vs. what I could figure out myself (Pinterest is free, after all). Then I searched for designers who were open to working on just specific rooms or hourly consults instead of a full-blown project. That helped keep things from getting out of hand cost-wise. Also, I asked for references and checked their past projects—some designers are way more into bold stuff than others, and it’s pretty obvious once you see their portfolios.
I do agree that “neutral for resale” is overrated, but there’s gotta be a middle ground, right? Like, something you love but isn’t so niche that you’re stuck with it if your tastes change or you need to sell. Maybe it’s just about picking a couple of spots to go bold and keeping the rest simple? Anyway, I’m still figuring it out... just trying not to blow the whole budget on one funky backsplash.
Maybe it’s just about picking a couple of spots to go bold and keeping the rest simple?
Honestly, I’d push back on that a bit. If you’re hiring someone to design your house, you should expect more than just “safe with a pop of color.” A good designer (or architect) can help you figure out how to make the whole space feel cohesive and personal without blowing your budget on one wild feature. Sometimes it’s less about statement pieces and more about layout, light, or even clever storage—stuff that actually changes how you live in the space. Custom doesn’t always mean expensive either; sometimes it’s just about using standard materials in smarter ways. Don’t let fear of resale or trends box you in too much... most buyers care more about flow and function than whether your backsplash is neutral.
WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?
Totally agree—design isn’t just about picking a “wow” spot and calling it a day. I’ve seen homes where the best part is how the mudroom actually works for a family, or how sunlight hits the kitchen at breakfast. That’s real design, not just trendy tiles. Honestly, some of the most memorable spaces I’ve built used basic materials in unexpected ways. It’s wild how much personality you can get out of plywood or concrete if you’re willing to think outside the catalog. Don’t be afraid to push for solutions that fit your life, not just what looks good on Instagram.
Don’t be afraid to push for solutions that fit your life, not just what looks good on Instagram.
That’s the part I keep coming back to. When I started looking for someone to design our place, I got overwhelmed by all the portfolios with these super dramatic, magazine-ready rooms. But honestly, I just wanted a house that actually works for how we live—like, where do the backpacks go, and is there enough light in the living room after 4pm?
I found it helpful to write down a list of “non-negotiables” before even talking to designers. Stuff like: must have a spot for muddy boots, kitchen needs to face east for morning sun, etc. Then when I interviewed architects, I paid more attention to how they listened than what their style was. Some people just want to sell you their “look,” but the best ones ask about your routines and quirks.
It’s tempting to get caught up in trendy materials or layouts, but if it doesn’t fit your day-to-day, it gets old fast. I’d say start with your real needs and find someone who gets that—even if their website isn’t full of glossy photos.
WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?
I get where you’re coming from, but I actually went the opposite direction when we started our reno. I mean, yes, I wanted the house to work for us, but honestly, I didn’t have a clue what my “non-negotiables” were at first. I thought I did—like, a big mudroom and open kitchen—but then I started seeing what was possible in some of those glossy portfolios and realized I’d been thinking way too small. Some of those designers had ideas that never would’ve crossed my mind (hidden storage under the stairs, or built-in benches with cubbies).
I guess my take is: sometimes you don’t know what’ll actually improve your day-to-day until you see it. The right designer can push you out of your comfort zone a bit, even if their style is more “magazine” than “lived-in.” As long as they’re willing to adapt, it can be worth considering folks who have a strong visual style—sometimes they’ll surprise you with practical solutions you didn’t know you needed. Just my two cents...
