Truth About Interior Designers

Buying a house, irrespective of the size is considered one of the most significant achievements.  There is much enthusiasm to renovate the house for in our dreams we already have the perfect home.  However, in reality, for most of us, renovation of a house is not short of a nightmare.  The primary reason is that we have no clue as to what is involved in the process such lights, usage of space, color schemes, types of wood to be used or even be sure as to what will look appealing.  Further, tragically there is no scope for trial and error as any ‘error’ can prove to be an aesthetic, functional or financial blunder. 

This is where the interior designers come to play.  The interior designers have the vision to give the limited space in our homes, a ‘wow’ factor and have the technical expertise to put their vision into reality, without compromising on the functionality of the house. 

The job of the designer starts with understanding our requirements and the budget for renovation.  Then the plans are drawn up to give shape to our requirements in the most aesthetic manner.  These blueprints are conceptualized in great detail for each and every room, taking into account the aesthetics and practical aspects as well such as lights, colors, décor, and usage of space.  Then depending on the budget, the materials are decided for closets, flooring, bathroom and kitchen fittings, and lights.  The designers are aware of the types of material and what will fit into our budget, look good and be durable.  They also have contacts to help us source the material at reasonable prices and in some cases make available décor items that are otherwise not available in the market.  The most difficult aspect of the role of the designer is to implement the plans.  It involved hiring various teams to undertake various aspects of renovation such as bathroom, kitchen, closets, painting, and electrical work.  Further, sometimes the plans may be required to be reworked when it is realized that the original plan is not practically viable. 

However, in spite of all the expertise, the interior designers bring to the table, we should not leave the renovation of our house totally in their hands.  Our home is an extension of our personality and our home should reflect that.  We should get involved in the whole process of renovation.  Our involvement starts with listing in great detail as to what do we want from each section of the house such as the kitchen should have room for cutlery, or the kids’ room should have study stable with proper lightening or the master bedroom should have sufficient closet space.  This list should be prepared room wise even before we hire an Interior Designer.  Post selection of the designer also our involvement should continue as we select the material to be used to build closets or tiles for the bathroom.  It is also important to set deadlines for completion of various stages of renovation to be done and we need to continually follow through with the designer to make sure the deadlines are met.  Post completion of the renovation, as a consumer and owner of the house, it is our onus to check if the work has been carried out as directed. 

It may be argued that if our involvement is so extensive do we really need the interior designers.  In my opinion, yes our involvement does not undermine their role in the renovation work which has been deliberated.  In all, I think hiring interior designers, help us save time and money and most importantly headaches.