WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?

I hear you on the “wow factor” overload. When we were looking, I actually brought a spreadsheet to the first meeting - probably overkill, but it helped me keep track of what each designer offered and how they handled budget talk. Some just glossed over costs, which was a red flag for me. I’d add: ask them to walk you through a project where the client had a strict budget. It’s wild how different their answers can be. And yeah, bringing in your own stuff is underrated... one designer tried to convince us to ditch our old dining table, but it’s basically family at this point.

WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?

I get the impulse to track everything in a spreadsheet - makes sense if you’re comparing a bunch of options. But sometimes, focusing too much on numbers and checklists can make you miss out on the intangible stuff, like how well you actually communicate with the designer or if their process fits your style. I’ve seen clients pick someone who looked perfect “on paper,” but it fell apart because they didn’t click in person.

On the budget side, I agree: anyone who dodges cost questions is a no-go. Still, some designers are just awkward talking money upfront, even if they’re solid once things get rolling. It’s not always a red flag, but definitely something to watch.

About keeping old furniture - I get the sentimental value, but sometimes those pieces really do clash with the new design or limit what’s possible. There’s usually a middle ground, though. I’ve worked with folks who wanted to keep a family table, and we found ways to make it work... just takes some flexibility on both sides.

WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?

I’m with you on the spreadsheet thing - it’s easy to get lost in the weeds comparing every little detail. But honestly, I’d put “shared values” right up there with communication style. If sustainability or energy efficiency matters to you, it’s worth asking about that early. I’ve met designers who talk a good game about “eco-friendly,” but when you dig deeper, it’s just a buzzword for them.

On the money side, yeah, some folks are just awkward about budgets at first. I try not to hold it against them unless they’re really dodging. But if you want transparency, it’s fair to expect it.

And the old furniture debate... I get attached to stuff too, but sometimes you have to admit when your grandma’s floral couch just isn’t going to vibe with a modern passive house. There’s usually a creative workaround, though - sometimes a reupholster job does wonders.

WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?

I’d argue that “shared values” can be tricky to pin down, especially early on. Sometimes people say all the right things in an interview, but it’s only after a few conversations that you see if they really get your priorities - like sustainability or respecting your budget boundaries. I always suggest asking for examples of past projects that align with what you want. And about the furniture - totally agree, sentimental pieces can work, but sometimes you have to compromise. I’ve seen a 70s armchair reimagined with new fabric and it completely changed the vibe.

WHERE DO YOU EVEN START WITH HIRING SOMEONE TO DESIGN YOUR HOUSE?

I get what you mean about people saying all the right things at first. When we did our renovation, I thought we’d found the perfect designer - she talked a big game about eco-friendly materials and respecting our budget. Fast forward a few weeks, and suddenly she’s pushing high-end fixtures that cost double what we agreed. It’s not always easy to spot that stuff in the beginning.

What helped us was actually visiting one of her finished projects. Seeing her work in person made it clear where her priorities really were. Also, I brought up specific things - like keeping my grandmother’s old dining table - and asked how she’d work it in. Her reaction told me a lot. If they’re excited to incorporate your sentimental pieces, that’s usually a good sign.

Honestly, I think you have to trust your gut as much as their portfolio. If something feels off, it probably is.