Choosing an Interior Designer

Sometime, if budget allows and time/career/family/life doesn’t, you might like to consider hiring an interior designer to manage your next big project. Whether it’s a master bedroom makeover or a complete kitchen re-design, an interior designer can make your life a whole lot easier when it comes to those clever space-saving tricks and space-maximising skills that are going to make a BIG difference to achieving your dream home. Sometimes called interior architects, these virtuoso’s of style should be fully equipped to run renovation and structural projects as well as plan detailed room designs down to the very last detail.

All you have to do is come up with a budget and a brief and let them take care of the rest. You don’t have to deal with the incessant droves of suppliers, decorators and tradesmen because your designer will take care of it all for you, saving you time and ultimately, money. Sounds ideal doesn’t it? But looking for that perfect person to put in charge of YOUR VISION can be a daunting task… after all it’s a big decision; the results of which will be in your life every single day.

The British Institute of Interior Design is government regulated and only certifies professionals of the very highest standing. There is an A-Z of experienced suppliers on their website and you can refine your search based on budget, building type and work required. We would recommend meeting with at least 3 or 4 designers but before you do, do as much research as possible on their previous jobs (most will have a portfolio of work on their website), their style and their values. Go to your meetings armed with as much information about what YOU want out of your project as possible: magazine cuttings, photos, Pinterest boards, paint samples, fabric swatches, some favourite art… and so on. The best designers will be receptive to your ideas and use them to bring you their own thoughts and concepts to compliment your brief.

Take a look at The Loom and Last’s “Houzz”profile for hints and inspiration, idea books and project portfolios. The website is predominantly a directory of interiors designers, so filter your search areas and see who you can find! Have fun and don’t forget to give us a follow on Houzz…

Interiors and Ideas, Tips and Hints, Useful Resources.