How To Work With An Interior Designer: Part II

Welcome back for part two! Today is all about working with an interior designer on a new build. Personally, I'm not sure how anyone builds a home from scratch without the help of a designer. It's like a remodel times 100 aka VERY overwhelming if you're not a professional. When most people think about buying land and starting from scratch, they immediately think of a general contractor. Although that's not necessarily wrong, I think most people ought to start with an interior designer they like and trust.

A true interior designer does more than simply shop for chandeliers and sectionals—they incorporate your lifestyle needs and aesthetic desires into every step of the process.

Although crafting jaw-dropping looks in your residence is a part of it, there’s more behind-the-scenes work that happens before a hammer ever hits a nail! Most people don’t realize that interior designers handle many areas of the design process from start to finish, specially on a new build.

Interior designers see the whole vision

With so many moving parts involved in a new build, it’s easy to get lost in the details. The architect is focused on one design aspect, the contractor is focused on another aspect, and an electrician and plumber will be focused on another. But who is keeping the bigger picture in mind to ensure the space is not just livable but beautiful and functional? Enter a skilled interior designer.

Interior design construction considers all factors of what a client wants when planning out their dream home. These professionals bring a different perspective to the project because they have discussed the home design in detail with the client.

Granite or marble countertops? Grand chandelier or pocket lighting? Kitchen island options with a luxury accent wall? These are all questions that the interior designer considers that the architect and builder will not think about.

Interior designers ensure your needs and desires are met

To bring your dream home to life, an interior designer should be involved at the start of the construction process. This way, nothing about your home design is an afterthought. Intentional design is key.

At the beginning of the design process, interior designers prepare and develop all your personalized interior plans. Then, the designer shares the plans with the architect and builder. From the location of doors and windows to the exact layouts of rooms in your home, the renderings will reflect these specifications. Having these 3D renderings from the interior designer gives you the opportunity to fully visualize your new home.

In addition to ensuring the project comes together according to your specifications, the interior designer lessens your decision load. Your designer will handle the selection process of materials and finishes throughout the entire home. The cabinetry finishes, countertops, plumbing fixtures, decorative lighting fixtures, flooring material, tile, paint, and stains are carefully selected using the preference information gathered at the beginning of the project.

Interior Designers Work in Tandem with the Construction Team

Interior designers possess a deep knowledge of the construction process. This allows them to effectively communicate with the contractor working on the project. Adding an interior designer allows you to skip the hassle of potential miscommunication that can occur between you and your contractors.

After choosing an interior designer to work with the architect, builder, and construction team, they can collaborate and create practical construction and design plans.

Here are just some of the ways that interior design construction can speed up the process:

• Decide where to place electrical outlets for lighting fixtures

• Figure out where plumbing fixtures would be best suited

• Determine whether a space is too large or small for the desired furnishings and adjust the floor plan accordingly with the architect

• Choose materials for cabinets, flooring, countertops, and more

• Consider where specific furniture will be placed and installed

Interior Designers Save You Money in the Long Run

Think of an interior designer as your go-to problem solver and resource along each point of the project. Don’t have time to browse through the options? Your interior designer can handle the decisions. Wondering what will best suit your lifestyle? Your interior designer will compile a list of recommendations for you. Need confirmation about a design choice? Your interior designer will let you know if it’s a good option or clues you into downsides risks you might not have considered.

If you hire an interior designer after the fact, you may be spending more money in the long run. The cost (and time spent) of making the wrong decisions can lengthen the project timeline and leave you with a less than desirable result. By starting with the help of an interior designer, you can avoid all those extra expenses and watch your ideal home come together seamlessly.

If you're thinking about remodeling your space(s) or starting on a blank sleigh, do it with a professional so it's done right and so it reflects your uniqueness. If you want to learn more about how we can help, inquire here.

- Raph