Choosing a Design Professional

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

by Tiffany Birch

When entertaining the idea of hiring a design professional, there are several variables to consider before jumping in with both feet. Depending on your outlook, the idea of building a new home or renovating an existing one can be both overwhelming and exciting. That’s why choosing the right professional for your project is not a decision to be made lightly. Word of mouth and personal referrals continue to be a mainstay in the world of interior design. If a trusted friend or neighbor happens to have worked with a design professional and you admire their work, then by all means, start by asking the nitty-gritty questions that you might otherwise be too embarrassed to ask the designer yourself. One thing of utmost importance is asking about what kind of “chemistry,” if any, existed while working with this individual.

In my opinion, a good designer should be collaborative with clients, thereby creating an undeniable synergy throughout the project. That being said, it’s also the designer’s job to assist in making money-based decisions anchored in their years of experience in the field. Again, it’s best for both parties to be transparent in regards to the budget in order to gauge overall expectations. Discussing money can be both threatening and uncomfortable, but it’s a necessary evil that will ensure a successful project outcome. Start with a realistic budget and then move onto the business of finding a suitable professional who can get you there.

Using the internet to research design professionals in your area (or relatively nearby) would be the next step. Go to those individuals’ websites and critique their work. Be honest with yourself while browsing and ask yourself if you could picture yourself living in the kinds of spaces they’ve created. Hopefully the answer is yes, and you feel both inspired and excited to reach out for a consultation. Most designers will start with a phone interview once contact has been made via email or telephone. You can expect a litany of questions regarding the scope of the project, what the anticipated timeline is, and how you found your way to this individual. The cost of design services may come up and will be addressed in detail in just a bit. The goal of this initial contact is just to see what kind of “vibe” occurs, and the decision can be made to schedule a design consultation or “walk-through” in the near future.

Designer’s rates are based on many variables, including years of experience, the location of where the design firm is based, and their business model. Hourly rates can vary as much as $150/hour all the way up to $425/hour in larger cities like Chicago, for example. The designer who chooses to bill hourly is more likely to be easily accessible and collaborative, because they know with certainty that their time will be compensated whenever extra meetings are scheduled.

Photo by Annie Spratt

A designer who prefers a “flat fee” often prefers a more streamlined business approach and will require a retainer down, and collect the remaining balance upon completion of the project. These designers may lose money on indecisive clients, but they don’t have the hassle of tracking hours, and they offer clients the peace of mind knowing a number upfront that they can plug into their budgets. Ask about their billing method so you can plan accordingly and decide if it’s a fit for how you want to spend.

Additionally, most designers charge a markup fee on goods they have ordered on your behalf, but some extend part or all of their designer discounts as well. Again, it’s best to discuss this upfront. As in all business dealings, a professional designer will provide you with a design proposal listing out what services they will provide, in addition to the fee arrangement. This is a contract that you will be asked to sign, and it’s binding for both parties.

Although it may seem extravagant to include a design professional or architect in your project, it can often save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes. I have seen far too many outlets placed in implausible locations just because the electrician or builder was following code, disregarding where art or furnishings may be placed in the future. I have also seen my share of doors illogically placed where clients have to open and close one door before they can physically enter another room due to poor planning. It is the designer or architect’s job to spot these mistakes before they’re implemented and result in costly repairs.

So now that you have made a budget, gotten referrals, done your online research, and hired a professional that you believe has your best interest, the fun can begin! I always remind my clients that the design process should be fun. It comes down to trust in the end — trust that you’ve hired the right person, and more importantly, trusting your gut when it comes to deciding how you want your home to not only look, but feel.

Tiffany Birch has been an interior designer since 2002, and specializes in both residential and commercial projects. She holds a Master of Social Work degree (ACSW) and utilizes interpersonal relationship skills on a daily basis with her client base, largely comprised of Ann Arbor and Metro Detroit residents. She enjoys residing in the city and the comforts of home. When she’s not fully immersed in client projects, you can find her on the golf course, a favorite pastime. www.birchdesignassociates.com Instagram: @birchdesignassociates