I’ve always said that good design is an investment. That means it’s not just a random purchase or a spur-of-the-moment decision. Most likely, you carefully research designers in your area, consider their pricing and services, and compare their previous projects to your dream board. A part of what makes design an investment is the experience of working with them. All designers have their way of doing things; some have a more formal, corporate-oriented approach, some have a more collaborative, relaxed way of working with clients. There are no wrong ways, but you must choose which best fits your personality and project. So, what is it like to work with a designer? That’s what I’m here to answer, because there shouldn’t be mystery to this investment into your home.
Local Miramar, Florida Designers
Probably one of the most important things is to find a designer who is local to you, or familiar with your area. I have the unique honor of having lived in many places in America. So I’m able to help people from all across the country. However, I’ve settled here in Miramar, Florida which makes me a designer who is local to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, and of course, Miramar itself. If you’re in South Florida, then I am able to help you design, redesign, and refresh your home.
What It’s Like to Work with a Designer
Beyond location, you’ll want to consider the following in order to know what it’s like to work with a particular designer and whether or not they are the right designer for your home.
The First Step of the Interior Design Process
The first step for most designers is a discovery call. During this call, we’ll see if we’re a good fit. Remember, this is a two-way street: you’ll determine if you want to work with me, and I’ll see if I want to work with you.
Afterwards I’ll send you a link to begin our onboarding process. This includes an in-depth questionnaire to help us both understand the scope, timeline, and goals of your project.
Second Step: Project Scope
More than anything, at the beginning of a project, it’s important to understand the scope. That is, what will be involved, what the timeline of each stage is, and what all parties expect throughout the weeks and months that follow.
After the call, we will set up a time to review the scope of your design project and collaboratively make a plan of action. Our design team handles the majority of the work here, but we loop you into the process so there are no surprises.
At this time we will include pricing estimates from contractors, a conceptual design plan for the space, and we’ll confirm the timeline and detailed deliverables.
Third Step: And Now We Shop!
So we’ve decided we like each other, we’ve crafted a plan, and now it’s time to execute. This is called the procurement process and could take some time, so we ask for some patience. There are lots of moving parts as we schedule trades, manage shipments, review items for quality, and source pieces that fit beautifully into your space and style.
The best part of this third step? This is when we visit showrooms together, select textiles and flooring, flip through and select fabrics for window treatments, choose wallpapers, and test out furniture in real life. However, the degree to which we do this may vary. If you prefer to be more hands-off, that’s totally fine! We’ll handle everything. The idea is for you to feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.
During the wait, we’ll provide you with floor plans, renderings, and details as your design comes to life. You’ll get updates and we’ll be managing the logistics and act as a liaison so you don’t have to worry about any potential hiccups or delays.
Just a note for our lovely clients:
There will be times of sheer quiet while we’re in the background making things happen for you. At YDP, Fridays are reserved for project updates. That’s when we’ll let you know where your project stands. That way you’re connected to the project, but not overwhelmed with random info or left completely in the dark.
Fourth Step: Install Day!
Are you ready for the big reveal? Let’s go! The final step of the design process is install day and the reveal. We might banish you from the house for a while as we pull all the pieces together, arrange, paint, move, roll out, install, clean, and style. This is where all the shopping and room layouts come to life.
A big part of this step includes professional photography. We also leave a gift from us of some treats. Then there’s my favorite part: the big reveal where you enter your brand new space and experience every element.
What Does Interior Design Pricing Look Like?
Every designer sets their own prices. While there may be a general price range and similarities, it really depends on the area, what they offer, and some of the other factors unique to each individual designer. At YDP, it’s our goal to keep our pricing fair and approachable.
Full Service Design: For our full service clients, we charge a flat-rate consultation fee which covers an initial in-home visit, assessment of your project goals, timeline, and feasibility. We also provide you with the aesthetic direction and a plan of action.
Should we decide to move forward, the design fee for the full-service package is another flat rate and will be based on the project scope and square footage of the rooms we’re designing.
E-Design Pricing: Our e-design clients pay a one-time flat fee. This covers the consultation as well as the deliverables which include customized layouts, shoppable boards, and more. Explore our virtual design services and everything they offer on our design services page.
When you are setting your budget for your project take into account the full scope of the investment from the start. Note designer fees, furniture, decor, etc. so there are no surprises and you can plan confidently for a beautifully executed space.
6 Things to Know Before Hiring a Designer
If you’re like the YDP team, you don’t just jump into things; you do your research and gather information. Hiring an interior designer is no different. Here are a few things to know before hiring a designer.
- Research pricing. Look over our pricing guide above and look at other sites to get an idea the price tag. You don’t shop for furniture every five years let alone every month and prices change quickly. Take some time to do some research and form a general idea of how much things cost these days. This is also a great time to start curating your vision board.
- Visit designer websites. You want to work with someone who understands you and has a good idea of the vibes, aesthetics, and overall style you’re going for. Taking a quick look at a designer’s website can clue you into their style and the other types of projects they’ve worked on.
- Work with someone who listens. It’s not a designer’s job to hand you your vision. It’s their job to listen to you and interpret your ideas, desires, needs, and style into a cohesive and beautiful space you love. A great way to see if your designer will listen and work with you is through a discovery call. At the end of the day, this is your home. Unfortunately (or fortunately) I’ve worked with clients who came to me after working with another designer who either didn’t get their vision or care to listen.
- Consider the timeline. Keeping a realistic timeline in mind is important. Though we want our projects to be done quickly and efficiently, there is always a timeline to these things. Know that flexibility is needed as we coordinate multiple contractors, businesses, and shipping delays, and timelines can shift slightly.
- Make note of what stays and what goes. Set aside heirlooms and make sure your designer knows those pieces are musts in the new layout. We encourage donating old, unwanted furniture and decor to the needy. There are lots of organizations out there that take these gently-used pieces and use them to set people up in their first house and give them great opportunities.
- Make a mood board. Pinterest is a fantastic resource for inspiration and mood boards. Save pictures that reflect your style. Pinterest has a lot of businesses that post, so you can find real pieces. Sharing your Pinterest boards with your designer makes it easy to communicate your vision.
Is It Worth It to Get an Interior Designer?
In short, yes. I know I’m biased, but I truly believe there are so many benefits to hiring an interior designer. Designers help you avoid costly mistakes as well as the process of buying items that end up not working. We also have trade discounts to offer and recommend trustworthy contractors so you don’t have to guess. Additionally, we offer advice on materials and quality furnishings, and keep the project moving while you’re keeping up with packed schedules.
Interior designers are so much more than just furniture shoppers. We offer expansive expertise that saves you time, money, and stress as you make your house a home.
Still not sure if a designer is for you? Schedule a discovery call today and we’ll work together to find a service that fits your project.
