Are you embarking on a home renovation journey?
If you want to start off on the right foot, end with your dream home vision realized, and go through the whole process without pulling out your hair, then we highly recommend you start by considering the crucial role of an interior designer. Here are 5 compelling reasons why engaging with a designer before hiring a contractor is the smartest move you can make in order to build your dream home.
1. Accurate Cost Estimates
Without a preliminary plan in place, contractors won’t know if you want to add new decorative lighting, tile an entire focal wall instead of just the shower, or add decorative wood paneling. That means their bid will typically be lower than what is actually needed to execute your vision. An interior designer can provide detailed drawings that yield more precise estimates. Armed with a clearer understanding of the project's overall cost, you can make better-informed decisions and be prepared for any financial implications.
One example: Sally Smith came to me after she’d already hired a contractor who bid her $300k for her whole home remodel without materials. I told her the number sounded unrealistically low. While she knew the cost would increase, she was shocked when change order after change order brought the total cost closer to $800k to give her the design she had wanted from the beginning.
2. Seamless Timing and Coordination
Good design takes time! Beginning the design process early helps ensure smooth collaboration between designers and contractors. Don't wait until after the demolition has begun to hire your interior designer! Engaging a designer first will place a reliable roadmap ahead. This approach yields multifaceted benefits: it provides valuable insight into comprehensive costs, prevents time constraints or delays and safeguards against impulsive design choices that often lead to costly change orders.
Pro tip: Give yourself at least one month of design time for a single room, and up to 10 to 12 months for a full home redesign before construction begins. That way you’ll be able to get contractor bids, start the permit process, and have everything in order before you break ground.
3. Avoiding Design Mishaps
Doors & Windows and Appliances, oh my! These big ticket items have long lead times and must be ordered well in advance. Having a designer onboard from the start prevents design limitations that could compromise your space's functionality and aesthetics.
A note: A designer will holistically consider whether windows should come all the way to the floor, or if you need wall space below for a nightstand or cabinet? They will determine if wall ovens are the most functional for you or if a range with ovens below will better create the open and airy feel you want in your new kitchen? Without knowing details like this ahead of time, you might order costly windows you don’t need or be stuck with a layout that isn’t inline with your vision.
4. Expert Design Insight & Curated Material Selection
General contractors are focused on execution and are typically NOT design experts! A good Interior designer will consider your vision, aspirations, and goals and infuse their artistic insight to turn your vision into a stunning reality. They also offer access to exclusive suppliers, high-quality materials, and unique fixtures and furnishings to elevate your home’s sophistication, ensuring it reflects your taste.
A note about Design-Build contractors: While a “design-build” company may be helpful, they are typically providing the drawings strictly to get permits and get your project going. They are not experts at curating tailored material selections or coming up with custom cabinet solutions. Most don’t do these things at all and and rely on you to select every finish, fixture. Some may offer material selection services, but limit your options to a small selection of vendors they favor for profit reasons. An interior designer will help ensure you don't get locked into subpar solutions that compromise your aesthetic or functional preferences.
One example: When I was brought into Mary Joes project I discovered her contractor was trying to push her into using man-made quartz countertops when she specifically wanted the unique glamor of Cristallo quartzite. That contractor not only didn’t know where to source such stone, he was also trying to guide the design decisions for his own profit margin. His focus was not her vision.
5. A Trustworthy Network
Experienced designers have established relationships with reliable general contractors and skilled tradespeople. Their recommendations ensure that you collaborate with professionals who can bring your vision to life seamlessly.
A note: Your designer will likely know contractors at who provide different levels of quality at various price points. They can guide you to those that are right for your preferences and project budget.
Embarking on a home renovation is an exciting endeavor, and hiring an interior designer can be the key that unlocks its full potential. A skilled interior designer acts as your advocate, translating your dreams into tangible realities. From igniting creativity to overseeing logistics, their involvement lays the foundation for a successful transformation that speaks to your unique style and needs.
Ready to embark on your dream home renovation journey the right way? Contact us today to get started on a remodel project that promises both beauty and functionality. Your vision, our expertise – the perfect partnership for a stunning home transformation.
