If you've ever considered working with a designer, you've likely wondered when is the right time to reach out and connect with one about your design project. How long does the design process take? I have ideas about my space but I'm months away from starting, is it too early to work with a designer? I have already made some design decisions but have questions, is it too late to bring a designer into the project?
The short answer is it's never too early to contact a designer about your project. Great design takes time and our clients are usually busy families and professionals who are juggling multiple things. Between kids sports and events, personal and work travel, making time for friends and family, and just the fast paced nature of life, a few months can pass us by in no time. Then all of a sudden those updates are something you just never got around to and now you have that "I want it done now" feeling, which can lead to impulsive buying decisions that cost you time, money, and satisfaction in the long run.
That's why reaching out a minimum of 4 - 6 months before you want the project completed is an ideal time to connect with a designer. This time frame generally allows enough time for a designer to create a solid design plan for your space, any trade work to be completed, and the purchasing and installation of most furnishings.
The actual length of time your project takes will depend on the project scope and complexity, your ability to make (and stick to) decisions, and availability of of goods and trade services. Whether you plan to update your furnishings next week or a year from now, working with a designer from the beginning will ensure you achieve the look your want to create your dream home.
Here are 5 reasons why you should hire an interior designer right away…
Reason #1: Attention to Details
Great design is truly in the details. When you look at inspiration images it can all look so effortless but there was a lot of behind the scenes thought and effort that went into it pulling it all together. A designer can take your big picture vision and drill down on the details that give a space that "wow" factor you're after. It's that attention to detail on all layers of the design that make a well designed room stand out from the rest.
Reason #2: Knowledge of Various Brands, Styles, and Materials
A key benefit to working with a designer is their knowledge of various brands, materials, and styles within the market. Designers have access to a large number of resources and its our job to know which ones will work best for each client and project. This saves clients a ton of time researching and visiting countless showrooms on their own and instead let's them focus on a curated selection of items that meets their specific needs. During the design concept and planning phases, we review samples of materials so you have confidence every step of the way that the materials selected will match your lifestyle.
Reason #3: Expertise Managing Budget and Timeline Constraints
Budget and timeline constraints are always present no matter the size and scale of the project. At the end of the day you will be spending your hard earned money and a designer has the expertise to help you manage and prioritize what you're purchasing so you maximize the end result.
Project timelines are also something that can take on a life of their own if you don't manage them... its why so many people say "I just didn't have time" or "life just got too busy". It's a designers job to ensure a project gets completed, which allows clients to focus their time and energy on other areas of their life.
A key reason designers work with clients for many years is because design takes time and projects (and budgets) need to be spaced out. Investing in a relationship with a designer is worth it because they learn their clients needs and preferences so are always on the look out for solutions.
Reason #4: Network of Trusted Trade Professionals
Like any industry, the home design industry is one where you collaborate and work with people across different fields, which leads to a rich network of resources that people outside the industry don't have access to. A designers network of trusted trade professionals can save project timelines and solve unique problems for their clients because of the relationships they have developed over time.
Reason #5: Personalized Design Experience
There are many resources available to you to help with your design project but it comes down to what type of experience and end result do you want. Retailers that sell directly to consumers can answer some of your questions (or maybe not) but they won't take the time to understand how you live in your home like a personal interior designer will. Many times these resources won't be able to give you the style and design guidance you're actually looking for because that's not their job and they don't know how all the design pieces are working together.
If you're looking for a design experience where you have a personalized service that supports your lifestyle and saves you from spending countless hours researching, running around, and stressing about the details, then working with a designer will be a great fit for you.
The key to a successful project is planning ahead, so if you're ready to get started, we'd be delighted to help! Reach out today!
Warmest Regards,
Carrie
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