Last month, we talked about the value an interior designer can bring to a home remodel. An investment in a contractor and interior designer marries technical expertise to keen design sensibility and project management skills. It’s an investment in your home’s durability and your personal sanity.
However, not every interior designer may be up for the task of partnering with a contractor. How can you know that the designer you’re hiring is the fit for the job?
Here are the essential questions to ask a designer before you hire them to work alongside your contractor:
Are you hiring an interior designer or an interior decorator?
Interior decorators are skilled in design. These professionals have a natural and oftentimes self-trained ability to style your space in a way that will leave you in awe. However, interior decorators don’t always have the same technical training as interior designers, also known as interior architects. Interior designers are trained and practiced in partnering with a contractor to get the job done. Designers are familiar with the city codes and construction techniques that are needed to ensure structures are sound for the city and stable for the future.
Has your designer ever done construction documentation?
It’s crucial that the designer you’re hiring to partner with your contractor has had experience crafting construction documentation for city permitting. On new and historic homes across the Denver Metro, city permit approval is required to demolish structures, move plumbing lines and so much more. An experienced designer will know what permits and approvals will be needed to get your projects to the finish line, no matter what obstacle comes in their way.
Does your designer like partnering with a contractor? Or vice versa?
The answer to this will be a bright green flag or a glaring red one. It’s essential for good designers and contractors to partner together in order for a project to be a success. Sometimes designers and contractors can have preferred vendors they like working with, which is a good answer to this question. But if the designer or contractor you’re working with is resistant to partnering with someone, it’s likely they’ll be difficult to work with as the project moves forward. Consider asking your contractor or designer for a referral for projects similar to yours. The differences between a bathroom and bedroom project are drastic. Checking with a referral will ensure that your project is set up for success.
How can I get started?
If you’re ready to get started on your next home remodel in Colorado, One of a Kind Interior Design is the interior design partner for you. Schedule a consultation with us today so that we can get a good idea of the space you’re working with and the goals for the project. If you already have a contractor on call, we’d love to meet them and get acquainted! If you need help finding the right one for you, we have some great local contractors that will make your space something you’re proud to show off.
