I am the first one to admit that decorating is a truly personal thing. Your home is the space that you spend a large portion of your life in so making a personal statement should be easy, right?
For some it is. They have the gift of being able to select just the right fabric, paired with just the right pattern, mix in some personal mementos and treasures from trips and places visited and, voila! You have a space that reflects the occupant to a tee–fashionably and perfectly proportioned.
This scenario is typically more the exception than the rule. Even when you get most of it right, there’s often this nagging feeling that somehow, someway you missed the mark. Then comes the endless search for that non-existent pillow or fabric or piece of art that somehow is going to make the room magically come together.
I talk to people every day that share their decorating trials and tribulations. Usually followed by the words, “I wish I could afford a decorator,” and then a long list of all of the ill-planned purchases and furniture items that were thought to be perfect until they were delivered and they were either too big or too small for the room. As I mentally add all of the money that was unsuccessfully spent, it becomes clear… this person absolutely could have afforded the services of a design professional.
I’m a big believer that one of the most important roles of a qualified interior designer is to create a space that reflects the client’s personality. But equally as important, I know that my involvement saves my clients money in the long run. Expertise in space planning, color, and proportion ensure that all decisions and purchases made… are the right ones.
Here are some tips for choosing a designer that will help you create a personalized space.
Select someone who:
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Asks lots of questions about you, your family and lifestyle
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Wants you to point out the things that are important to you–things you love that you already own
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Talks about money and budget up front. Most designers are happy to work with a modest budget. It creates a challenge and a heightened sense of creativity
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Sees you as the “captain of the ship” and their role as the ship’s “navigator.” On every voyage, there are different ways to get to a destination. A designer’s goal should be to steer you clear of obstacles.
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Demonstrates respect. This is your home, your things, your life.
I hope these tips prove helpful in your next decorating endeavor. Here’s to your professionally designed personalized space… and the extra bucks that will be left in your pocket.
Warmly,
David
By Buck Home interior designer/owner, David Lyall
