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5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Interior Designer


Domestic Studio_Interior Design_Upper Midwest


Choosing an interior designer can be a daunting task. After all, your living space is an extension of who you are. You want it to reflect your personal taste and style. But with so many options available, how do you know which interior designer is the right fit for you? From design philosophy to pricing structure, these 5 questions will help you find the perfect designer for your project.



What Is Your Design Philosophy?


An important question to ask when hiring an interior designer is what their design philosophy is. This will give you a good idea of their approach to design and if it aligns with your own personal taste and style. It's important to find a designer who understands your vision for your home and can bring it to life in a way that feels authentic to you.


Domestic Studio is dedicated to the experience of home, creating homes rooted in intentionality, personalization and meaning. With a focus on timeless and elevated design, we are committed to crafting meaningful interiors that adeptly balance beauty and functionality.


How Many Jobs Do You Take On at One Time?


There is no magic number when it comes to the amount of clients interior designers can successfully take on at one time, but it’s still an important conversation to have. This is especially true when embarking on a large-scale renovation or new build, which requires a significant time investment on part of both the client and the interior design team. If a design studio is over extended, it may negatively impact your client experience, leading to longer project timelines, avoidable mistakes and insufficient communication.


At Domestic Studio, we limit the number of jobs we take on at one time to ensure our clients are getting the best possible design and experience.


Domestic Studio_Interior Design_Upper Midwest


What Is Your Process?


Understanding the designer's workflow is crucial in ensuring you're on the same page every step of the way.


Ask how they typically begin and develop their designs, how they incorporate your input, and how they approach design revisions. This information will give you a better idea of what to expect throughout the project's timeline and how involved you'll be in the decision-making process.


A designer's process will also speak to their organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to stay on schedule. Additionally, it's vital to ask about their communication methods. Will they provide regular updates, and how will they keep you informed of any issues or changes?


Understanding your designer's process is key to a successful project outcome. With a clear understanding of the designer's workflow, you can rest assured that the project is moving along as expected.


Through a connected and elevated process, we guide clients to a home that transcends aesthetics-designed instead to embrace and enhance the authentic way they live. You can learn more about our process here.


How Do You Handle Challenges?


No project is without challenges. When it comes to interior design, unexpected issues can arise due to factors such as construction delays, budget constraints, and unforeseen issues behind walls or under floors.


That's why it's important to ask your prospective designer how they handle challenges that may arise during the project. Do they have a process in place to address these issues? Are they transparent and communicative when problems arise? A designer who is adaptable and can think on their feet is crucial to a successful project.


Knowing how your designer handles challenges will also help you mentally prepare for any bumps along the way. With clear communication throughout the project, you can work together to find solutions and make adjustments as needed.



What Is Your Pricing Structure?


Knowing how your designer approaches your project is important, but understanding their pricing structure is equally vital. Before making your decision, it’s essential to know how much you’re expected to pay and what services are included in the price.


Some designers charge an hourly rate, while others go with a flat fee. Keep in mind that hourly rates can vary depending on the designer’s experience and location. A flat rate, on the other hand, may include a set number of design hours, revisions, and consultations. Whichever pricing structure your designer uses, you should have a clear idea of what it includes and what you can expect from their services.


It’s also important to consider any additional costs associated with the design of your home, For instance warehouse or shipping fees. Understanding all the fees and expenses involved upfront can help you avoid any surprises down the road. With a clear depiction of their pricing structure, you can make a well-informed decision about what you’re paying for and what is included in their service.


After inquiring, we provide our clients with an easy to navigate investment guide that outlines our process and fee structure. If we mutually agree to move forward, we will provide you with a detailed customized proposal for your review.


Choosing the right interior designer for your project can be overwhelming, but by asking the right questions, you can ensure that the designer you choose is the right fit for your family. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts when making your final decision. Your home is the background for your everyday life and most meaningful moments. It deserves to be designed by someone who understands and respects your unique style.


To inquire about any of our services and find out if Domestic Studio is a good fit for your project, please submit a design inquiry and we will be in touch soon.

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