10 Questions to Ask Interior Designers Before Hiring
Starting a new home design project is both an exciting and daunting journey, and it’s incredibly important that you have the right team supporting you. Choosing the right interior designer to be part of that team is crucial to ensuring that your vision comes to life smoothly and successfully. However, finding the perfect match isn’t just about liking their portfolio; it’s about understanding their process, communication style, and the value they can bring to your project.
Before you make this important decision, here are 10 essential questions to ask interior designers you may be interviewing before hiring them. These questions will help you gauge their expertise, clarify expectations, and ensure that both you and your designer are on the same page, setting the stage for a fruitful collaboration and a beautifully designed space.
10 Questions to Ask Interior Designers Before Hiring
#1: What is your design philosophy?
A designer’s design philosophy is the backbone of their approach to creating spaces, it reflects their core values, priorities, and what they believe makes a space not only beautiful but functional. When deciding between designers, it’s important that you ask not only about the aesthetics but also how they will approach the design of your space as a whole. For example, do they believe in layering textures and patterns to create a rich, maximalist environment? Or do they prioritize minimalism and reducing clutter? Understanding your designers’ philosophy will help ensure that their approach aligns with your vision for your home.
OUR ANSWER
We believe that hiring an interior designer is about more than just making your home beautiful; it’s about creating a space that reflects your unique lifestyle and personality while offering functionality and enduring beauty. Our approach is to craft livable works of art that not only enhance your daily life but also foster a deep sense of well-being every time you step through the door. We design spaces that stand the test of time because instead of following trends we tailor each of our designs to you, offering a seamless blend of form and function specific to your needs and tastes.
#2: Do you have experience working on similar projects?
As with anything construction-related, experience matters when selecting the right interior designer, especially if your project has specific challenges or requirements (spoiler alert: most do). It’s important to gauge whether the designer you’re considering has handled projects similar to yours in scope, style, or complexity. Trust me, you don’t want your home to be your designer’s guinea pig. An experienced designer will not only understand potential challenges but will also have a toolkit of proven solutions to address them efficiently and effectively.
OUR ANSWER
As NCIDQ-certified interior designers with over a decade of experience, we’ve truly seen it all. We’ve worked on everything from 300-unit luxury residential developments to a single guest bathroom refresh. Whether you’re restoring a historic gem, building your forever home, or tackling that long-awaited kitchen or bath renovation, we have the credentials, experience, and portfolio so you can be sure that your biggest investment is in capable hands.
#3: What is your process like?
Before committing to an interior designer—a relationship that can last months or even years—it’s crucial to understand their process so there are no surprises down the road. Asking about their process is vital for understanding not only the steps involved in your project but also how the designer communicates and collaborates with their clients. If a designer can’t clearly articulate how they work or the steps involved in bringing your vision to life—RUN! Even seemingly simple projects can be incredibly complex with many moving parts, so it’s essential to work with someone who is organized and process-driven.
OUR ANSWER
Courtney developed her signature 6-step process through her experience in large-scale developments where a meticulous design process was critical to the success of those projects. At Paige Studio, we bring that same level of detail and organization to every project, including yours. We begin with an in-home design consultation (think of it as a first date with your designer) then move into the design phases once where we create detailed plans and mood boards for your review. Once you're happy with the design, we coordinate with contractors and suppliers to bring your vision to life, keeping you updated every step of the way.
#4: How do you charge?
Understanding how an interior designer charges for their services is crucial for setting expectations and managing your budget. Different designers have different pricing structures—some charge a flat fee, others work on an hourly basis, and some may use a combination of both. You can learn all about the different pricing structures interior designers may use in this blog post. Keep in mind that there may be charges for things like travel, project management, or procurement. Being clear on how fees are calculated, what is included, and how expenses are handled can help you avoid any surprises and ensure that the designer’s services align with your financial expectations.
I want to make a distinction here that the question you’re asking is “How do you charge” and not “How much will my project be,” often it’s impossible to give an accurate project estimate without seeing the space and walking through your vision. That being said, asking how a designer’s fee structure works upfront helps you understand not only what the designer's services will cost but also how transparent and straightforward they are about pricing. A designer who is clear and detailed in explaining their fees is more likely to be organized and professional throughout the project.
OUR ANSWER
At Paige Studio, we believe in complete transparency when it comes to pricing. Home improvement and interior design projects are inherently expensive, so we pride ourselves on offering a flat fee structure. This allows you to understand the investment upfront, without worrying about unexpected design bills. Our flat fee covers everything from concept development to mood boards and detailed plans for construction. To get a better sense of our pricing, you can download our complete Services and Investment guide, which includes our starting room investment levels and more detailed information.
#5: Can you provide contractor referrals?
One of the major benefits of working with an interior designer is having access to their resources. When interviewing potential designers you should never forget to ask this question for a few reasons. First, it gives you insight into the designer’s network and relationships within the industry. Designers who have been in the field for a while typically have a trusted list of contractors, artisans, and suppliers they prefer to work with—those they know will deliver high-quality results. Having access to these referrals can streamline your project, as these professionals are often accustomed to collaborating with the designer and understand their standards and expectations.
Additionally, working with a designer’s preferred contractors can help ensure that the project runs smoothly, with fewer miscommunications or delays. These contractors are likely vetted for reliability, workmanship, and professionalism. Plus, the designer will often have more leverage in managing the contractor’s work if issues arise since they have an ongoing working relationship. Ultimately, having a designer who can recommend skilled and reliable contractors adds significant value to your project.
OUR ANSWER
At Paige Studio, we have cultivated strong relationships with a network of top-tier contractors, artisans, and suppliers over the years. While we are happy to collaborate with your contractor should you prefer, we love it when our clients hire our recommended builders and contractors because we know they share our commitment to executing your project to the highest standard.
#6: How will you handle problems if (when) they arise?
Even the most well-planned projects encounter unexpected issues. We tell our clients that it’s not IF but WHEN an issue will arise during a construction or design project. That said, how the interior designer you hire handles these unexpected challenges is critical to the success of your project.
A good designer should be able to outline a clear path for managing problems, including communication protocols, decision-making processes, and strategies to keep your project on track. Be cautious of any designer who guarantees a problem-free experience. Whether it's a delay in materials or furniture, an unforeseen structural challenge, or a miscommunication with your contractor, something unexpected always comes up—it’s a normal part of the construction process.
OUR ANSWER
Unfortunately, challenges are an inevitable part of any home design project, but it’s how they’re handled that truly matters. Our approach is rooted in proactive communication and planning, which allows us to anticipate potential issues before they escalate thanks to our Signature 6-Step Process. When issues do arise, we’re committed to resolving them swiftly and efficiently while keeping you informed every step of the way and aware of all the options you have to move forward.
#7: What types of design services do you offer?
When interviewing interior designers, it’s crucial to understand the range of design services they offer. Not all designers provide the same services, and knowing what’s available can help you determine if a designer is the right fit for your project. Some designers may specialize in full-service design, handling every detail from concept to completion, while others might offer more focused services like paint consultations, space planning, or e-design. Clarifying what’s included in their offerings ensures you’re on the same page and helps prevent any misunderstandings down the road.
OUR ANSWER
Our signature service is our Turn-Key interior design service which takes your project from concept to completion handling everything from initial concepting, to design and construction documentation, to coordinating with trades, vendors, contractors, and builders to bring the vision for your home to life. We specialize in historic home renovations and infusing character into custom new construction homes through architectural finishes and furnishings. You can learn more about our services and offerings here.
#8: Do you have a portfolio?
Possibly one of the most important factors when hiring an interior designer is making sure their aesthetic aligns with yours. Thoroughly reviewing a designer’s portfolio helps you visualize how the designer might approach your project and gives you confidence in their ability to deliver the results you’re looking for. It's also a way to assess whether they have experience with projects similar to yours in terms of scale, style, or complexity. Ask yourself if you could see yourself living in any of their past work. For example, if all the kitchens on their portfolio are light, bright, and airy but you want a bold and colorful space - they probably aren’t the designer for you.
OUR ANSWER
At Paige Studio, we take pride in our curated portfolio, which reflects our commitment to creating bespoke modern interiors that are both functional and beautiful. Our portfolio features a range of projects, from historic home renovations to custom new construction, each showcasing our attention to detail, creativity, and ability to bring our clients' unique vision for their homes to life. We invite you to explore our portfolio and our Instagram to get a sense of our work and to see how we’ve helped our clients transform their spaces into personalized, timeless homes.
#9: What level of involvement will I have throughout the design process?
This question goes hand in hand with the idea that it’s essential to understand how an interior designer works before you hire them. Do you envision a designer who will take you shopping and involve you in every detail, or do you prefer someone who will handle everything for you, from selections to installations? Different designers operate in different ways, and being clear about your role during the design process is crucial for avoiding potential conflicts and ensuring a smooth collaboration throughout the project.
OUR ANSWER
We believe the most successful projects are those where our clients trust us to fully execute their vision. We involve you heavily during the initial concepting phase, so we can deeply understand your style and preferences. Once the concept is finalized, we ask that you take a step back, allowing us to craft a complete design that will be presented to you. This doesn't mean you’ll be out of the loop—we provide weekly update emails to keep you informed on all the developments with your project.
You can learn more about our complete process here.
#10: When can you start my project?
This question is crucial because it helps set expectations and ensures your project aligns with the designer’s current schedule. Knowing when a designer can start your project is just as important as their qualifications or design style. If you’re working within a specific timeline, it’s essential to understand their availability upfront. Keep in mind that good designers often book up months in advance, so it's wise to discuss this early in the conversation. Home renovation and design projects are a marathon, not a sprint, so be wary of designers who can start your project immediately or promise to have your project done in a short time frame (such as a month or two).
OUR ANSWER
At Paige Studio, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail and the care we put into each project, which is why we typically book projects 2-3 months in advance. We recommend getting in touch with us as soon as possible to ensure we can accommodate your project within your desired timeframe. Once we start, you can trust that your project will receive the full attention it deserves from our dedicated team.
Selecting the right interior designer is a significant step in bringing your dream space to life. When you ask potential designers these essential questions, you'll gain a deeper understanding of their process, expertise, and how well they align with your vision and needs. Remember, a successful design partnership is built on clear communication, trust, and mutual understanding.
At Paige Studio, we're passionate about creating bespoke modern interiors that reflect your unique style and aspirations. We’d love to discuss these questions with you in more depth during a complimentary discovery call to see if we’re the right fit for your project. Let’s explore how we can transform your space together—contact us today to schedule your call!
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