4 Questions to Ask Your Designer Before Home Renovation

Home renovation can be quite a huge undertaking, and if you’re renovating, you’re probably hoping for a new look in your home. There is so much more to interior design than choosing the right color paint or furniture, and that’s why hiring an interior designer is often a good idea, as they are often better equipped to bring your vision to life. However, before hiring a designer, there are some questions you need answers to.

Transforming Your Home with Home Renovation: Questions to ask the Interior Designer

1. Do You Charge Per Hour or Per Room?

Most designers charge one of two ways – per hour or per room. A per room charge is more fixed and can give you a better idea of what the project is going to cost you. However, charges per hour can add up pretty quickly, and it can be quite frustrating (and expensive) if the project takes longer than anticipated. You may also want to find out when payment is expected. Do they want half now and half at completion? Are there any discount fees offered? All these items should be stipulated in a design agreement so you know what is expected of both of you.

2. Describe Your Work Style

In order for you and your designer to be on the same page regarding ideas, plans and expectations, you need to know your designers preferred work style. Does she prefer to be in charge of the whole operation, deciding what goes where, or doe she prefer to give you options and the final say? Perhaps they’d even like to be involved in the home renovation process.

At this point you may also want to find out their signature style. Do they specialize in modern designs, or do they have an eye for a more traditional home?

3. Can You Show Me Examples of Similar Projects You’ve Worked On?

You may be comfortable taking a chance on a first-timer, but if you’re not, it helps to have a look at past projects the designer has worked on. Having a visual, rather than relying on what the designer is saying, can give you a better picture of what to expect. Ask them to explain past projects in as much detail as possible.

4. How Long Will the Project Take?

Working with a timeline definitely helps, particularly if you’re also doing home renovations, and even more so if they’re charging you per hour. According to Home Advisor, the average reported cost for hiring an interior designer was $5,248. Apart from cost, you need to know how the redecorating process is going to affect your life if you can’t use the room for a while.

Home Renovation and Redecorating Can Be Fun

Although asking these questions to a potential designer may be a little awkward at first, it is a necessary step. You’d want your designer to understand your vision and what you want in a home. Combining home renovation and redecorating may be a tedious task, but it can be fun too, especially if you and your designer are on the same page.