Ann Gilbert, Interior Designer of Impact Interior Design shares some not so obvious tips before working with a designer. Time is Money! And she wants to make sure you get your money’s worth when working with Impact. Having these tips in the back of your mind will help you achieve the best results possible.
Tip #1: DO Ask Questions (And We Will Too!)
We are never quite sure what we are going to walk into at that first visit.
Back in my earlier years, I took any and all clients that I could get. Over the years I’ve learned that there are some red flags that I make myself aware of at this first, very important consult. I’ve learned to approach the clients with lots of questions to see if we are going to be a good fit. This is true not only for the designer but also for the homeowner. Maybe you won’t like my design style or approach to decorating. It’s important to ask the questions. This is your space, and you need the right person for the job.
Tip #2: DON’T SWALLOW THE ELEPHANT
During my first visit here is what always happens: You want everything done and you don’t know where to begin. When I go to any new appointment, I will tell you that 90% of my clients call me to their home for one room but I end up going through the entire house with them. The frustrations of failed attempts at within the home quickly take us off track.
Best advice I can give to you is to tackle one room at a time. Don’t swallow the elephant! Even though other spaces need attention, focusing on one room is best. Inevitably, nothing will get done and certainly not the spaces that need it the most. While we are focusing our attention on one room, any good designer is keeping the other rooms in mind even if they’re not going to be redesigned now.
Tip #3: DON’T Go into This Thinking You Want the Magazine Photo as Is
Because even though we do our very best to bring you that look you will certainly want to bring in your own pieces. We’ve all walked into those perfectly decorated model homes where everything is in its place with perfect symmetry and perfection. What we don’t see our personal photos, personal belongings, dads favorite chair – faded and all. We don’t see the family heirlooms like moms old dining table that we just can’t part with and the family dog photo that MUST be displayed. We are designers. Our job is to make your home beautiful and a place you want to be in. We can work with just about any clients’ items.
Tip #4: DO Know Your Budget
Be realistic but add fluff – usually 20%. As much as we want to stay in that budget when furnishing your spaces, there is with every client that sofa they sat in and has to have! Or that piece of art that just speaks to you!
When we ask what you’ve set aside for this budget, give us a number. I need to know if I’m shopping for furniture at Target or Gormans.
WE KNOW WHAT THINGS COST! We deal with it every day. Trust what we tell you. If it can be done, we will make it happen. Our reputation and referrals depend on it. I can replace the kitchen cabinets, get you the 42” cooktop, but we are painting your table and chairs. Get it?
Tip #4: STAY IN YOUR LANE – FIND YOUR STYLE
Find your style. Everybody has one. Sometimes it takes some research, and I can help with that…but find it. Many clients simply don’t know what they like, or they say they don’t so I pick what I think will work best, usually to start them off, and they begin to reveal their likes and dislikes and eventually we can find out who they are. It can actually be a fun process, but it takes some strategy, and plenty of open-mindedness. A good designer can work with anything and will help you reveal your style. Now we can work this style throughout the home.
Tip #5: Home Decor Should Flow
What did I say about Don’t Swallow the Elephant? When doing any one space I am always keeping the other spaces in the back of my mind. The whole house should have a natural flow to it. And each room should speak to the next. A main color in one room can be a secondary color in the next while an accent color or pattern can be brought in 3 different rooms in 3 different ways. Count on your designer to create this for you. It’s what we do!
Bottom Line
I want you to be happy with your experience. I want you to be over the moon with the space created. It is your home and at the end of the day, you are the ones that are going to be enjoying it! Ask your questions, have a budget, have fun, be realistic, and find your own unique style. It is our job as designers to help you create a space that is personal to you, and your lifestyle. Keeping these tips in mind will allow you to stretch your dollar and get the most out of our services and get great results. I look forward to working with you on your next space!
