7 Questions to Ask an Interior Designer

We get interviewed weekly by prospective clients looking to gain insight into how we work, and if ultimately, we’re the right fit. Whether they’ve worked with an interior designer before or not, we’re asked a number of questions during our initial conversation.

When someone reaches out to inquire about our services, we set up a phone call to not only learn more about their project, but share more about how we work as well. This initial connection is all about the fact finding, and getting a sense of each other over the phone. We like it to be both conversational, and informative so we have a sense going forward as to the overall fit and feeling. Regardless of who you’re reaching out to, there are important questions to ask.

Every designer works differently, so it’s almost impossible to compare apples to apples. There are varying degrees of aesthetic, personalities, budget and availability, all of which are considerations that play into the decision as to who may be the right interior designer for your project.

We’ve talked before about the “Six Questions We May Ask A Potential Client”, however today’s post covers the questions we think YOU should ask US. Here are our top 7!

*Photography:* ***Michelle Johnson Photography***

1. HOW DO YOU CHARGE?

Fixed fee (or flat rate), hourly or packages are all options when it comes to hiring an interior design professional. Having insight as to rates of pay is a great question in understanding how an interior designer works, and which method works best for you. Within an hourly rate, depending on the size of firm, they may have a scale of fees, meaning the hourly rate will reflect who’s doing what task. For more information, I encourage you to read “How & Why Interior Designer Rates Differ”. Having an open and honest conversation about money early on, breaks uncomfortable barriers, and creates an open dialogue from the start.

2. WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?

While the services offered amongst interior designers are many, most designers will specialize or have a clear niche within their business. Having an understanding of what those services are will assist in determining fit, and whether their offerings fit your project requirements.

Depending on the type of project you’re embarking on, having insight into an interior designer vs. interior decorator vs. design/ build, and will help ensure you’re speaking with the right type of business.

Full service interior design means the designer will work with you from concept to completion. Essentially they’re looking at your floor plans prior to permit for a new home build, beginning the design process before any walls open up, or space planning furniture before anything is selected. Full service interior design means your designer is with you through to the finishing touches of a project, and beyond.

Some firms offer packages of interior design services, whereby there is a set price for a specific amount/ type of service.

Consultations are also popular in an effort to have short meetings with a clear objective alongside a designer, without the long term commitment. Our consultations are set up in such a way that the client does as much leg work as possible depending on the task at hand, and prepares a list of questions to ask within the agreed upon meeting time. We find 2 hours is the perfect amount of time to walk through the house and answer as many questions as possible, without being overwhelmed, and feeling as though you can move forward with the advice.

Gaining an understanding of all options, and figuring out which is best for you, is a great question to ask during the initial call.

3. WHAT IS YOUR PROCESS?

While every designer charges differently, you’ll also find they have different processes. Moving through the stages and phases of a project have often been created specifically for the methods to which the interior design professional has discerned works best for their business. One company’s process may really resonate with you, and fit your personality, while another may not. At Nyla Free Designs, our process is set out in phases from start to finish, resulting in a streamlined, thoughtful approach to a project.

4. WILL YOU WORK WITH OUR BUILDER/CONTRACTOR, OR DO YOU HAVE YOUR OWN?

You may have had a successful working relationship in the past with a contractor/ builder so bringing them in on your next project is important. Asking this question upfront will confirm the ability to introduce your designer to your previous contractor.

If a company is design/ build, then they’ll come as a package deal, complete with interior design services through to the building process, resulting in more of a “one stop shop” approach.

Some interior design firms have a go-to contractor/ builder they prefer to work with, or would happily recommend, however are not affiliated with each other from a financial perspective.

We’re brought into a team in a very hand selected way, where our clients are creating their “dream team” based on the overall fit of each company. We’re happy to work with a clients builder/ contractor, or offer referrals as to who we’ve successfully worked with in the past. Either way, our goal is to be apart of a great team, to help bring your home to life.

5. CAN WE HIRE YOU FOR ONLY CERTAIN PARTS OF OUR PROJECT?

This question is more important than you may think, and there are likely many different answers depending on your circumstances. At Nyla Free Designs we work one of two ways; in a full service capacity, meaning start to finish as mentioned above, or by way of a two hour consultation. You could say we’re biased, however the role of an interior designer is critical for the success of a new home build, renovation, or even furniture and decor, however we’re often the most undervalued, and misused service in the industry. Read our post “Who’s Driving Your Interior Design Project?” for more details as to why hiring an interior design professional for the entirety of a project will yield the best result.

6. DO YOU HAVE A MINIMUM BUDGET FOR US TO WORK WITH YOU?

This is a great question and again, will more than likely be different for each firm. A newer company may not have a minimum, while a more established interior design firm may. Hiring an interior designer is a key investment for your project so allocating money for this service is important.

While we don’t have a minimum per se, there are a numbers that simply don’t make sense, and having this conversation will be important for both parties in determining the right fit.

7. WHEN ARE YOU AVAILABLE TO START?

Depending on the scope of your project, an interior designer may not be able to take it on right away. Many designers are booking months in advance so planning ahead is key. This will also help be as organized as possible when it comes to kicking of your project. Anything done in a rush does not yield the best results so give yourself time to research and understand the process as much as possible.

If you’re in the contemplation stage of a project, reach out to the designer you admire, and hope to work with, to learn about their timing. You’ll never be disappointed if you wait for the interior designer you want to work with.

If you’re ready to reach out with pen and paper in hand, we’d love to connect. Put our question to the test! The form submission on our site is the best way to get in touch. Let’s start to create a home you feel good in. We look forward to speaking with you!

Hello!

Welcome. We’re so happy you stopped by. Our goal is to be a leader in the interior design and lifestyle industry, known for our creativity, authenticity, professionalism and expertise, as a go to resource to learn, work with or simply be inspired. Thank you for spending time with us!