During a home renovation, you’re going to have to make all kinds of decisions about things you may have never thought about before. For example, if you’re renovating a bath, you’re going to need a sink, but what kind? single or double? pedestal or vanity? custom or stock? what kind of wood finish, painted or stained? If you’re going with a vanity, what kind of counter top? How wide can it be? How deep? And the faucet – nickel, chrome, brass, polished, brushed?  And then you’ll want to tie it all together and stick to your budget. Just for a friggin’ sink!

So why hire an interior designer? Because she (or he!) can make your life easier. An interior designer can define and develop your style while sticking to your budget. Once she  identifies your budget and style, she can help customize all your choices and select the best vendor to supply your materials. In fact, interior design professionals can help stretch your budget and avoid mistakes, saving money in the long run. Let’s say for example, that your architect has finished the drawings for your renovation (yes you need an architect too!)  and you show them to your designer. Your designer reviews them and points out “Hey your office desk is 84″ long and the cable and electrical outlet is all the way on the other side of the room.” Your designer just saved you the hassle of rewiring your cable and electrical, patching the drywall hole, and repainting.

An interior designer’s goal is to help you get what you want. They can expand your resources to include local and national suppliers and provide access to those who only connect with the trade. And if you have too many resources, they can help edit and focus your choices. Heck, they can even help squash a squabble between you and your sweetie over the satin or brushed nickel faucet.

The important thing for you to do is to start collecting images or samples of things you like or dislike. That way the designer can develop an understanding of your taste and style. Once you meet with a designer, communication is key. Don’t be afraid to say “Hey, I don’t like that” or “Is that covered in my contract?” Share with them your vision for your home and what day-to-day activities take place in each room. The more you communicate, the happier you will be in the long run.

Hey, if you have a knack for design, the courage, the stomach, the time and the money for designing and remodeling your own project, go for it! It’s a valuable learning experience. If not, leave it to the experts. They have the education and experience to create that special look for each client. They know what’s current, which vendors may need a little extra time, which fabrics carry stain resistant lines, and as with any professional, stuff you don’t even know you don’t know.

Still not sure? Chat with a professional one-on-one. Gardner/Fox offers design consultations free of charge to serious homeowners. Schedule yours today! 610-525-8305