In your search for a home interior design firm, there are a
number of factors that you need to look into before making the big jump.
Choosing the right team of experts is vital if you want to achieve a
living space that suits your requirements.
Here are five tips that you must not forget –
Put Together a List of the Best Firms
In order to make the best selection of interior design company,
consider hiring locally. Take the time to peruse all the resources that
are available to you online. Shortlisting means putting in four to six
names onto a list and sitting down to browse each of these companies’
websites.
Browsing the websites of these designers allow the homeowner to develop an idea about what services would best suit his needs.
Review the Interior Design Company’s Portfolio
Peruse the company’s portfolio and review each of their past projects.
Find the projects that show similar styles as those that you would like
to use in your home. Not all interior design companies specialize in
residential projects, there are those that primarily work on corporate
or commercial projects so find the ones that have relevant experience.
Ask for their previous clients’ numbers then get in touch with most of
them. This is a good way to gauge whether you and the interior designer
are a good fit.
Check for Training and Certifications
Steer clear of interior designers that are not able to show their
qualifications and certification. It wouldn’t hurt to do a little
background check so that you will make an informed choice.
The curriculum for interior design training is evaluated and certified
by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (formerly called the
FIDER or Foundation of Interior Design Research Education). See if your
chosen interior designer is able to provide a certification from the
said council as it is proof that the designers in the firm have passed
the high standards of education in interior design principles.
If the interior designer has an NCIDQ certification, then you are in the
best hands. After graduation plus six years of work experience under
the supervision of an ID professional, the designer attains the highest
standard in the industry so a company that hires NCIDQ designers are
worth every dollar that you will spend.
See If You Click
Never underestimate the value of rapport with the professionals that
you will hire. They should be willing to receive input from you and are
able to make suggestions themselves. An interior designer must take your
ideas seriously, otherwise, you are dealing with a headstrong expert
who will only give you headaches.
Before signing any contracts,
make sure that you establish a line of communication with the interior
designer. Be open about your need to discuss the project and the
possibility of making some changes every now and then.
Compare Quotes
Find the professionals that will be able to provide a cost-efficient
service. The sad thing about home renovation is that many homeowners
never get to do it. The reason is pretty simple – they cannot afford it.
A lot of homeowners dread the high prices that come with
interior design. Yet there are many methods available to make interior
design affordable. You can install wallpapers, drapes, new curtains or
have new paint applied; buy new yet affordable furniture pieces; or you
can choose to rearrange your existing furniture.
But if you feel
that you do not have the skill to do these, then an interior designer
can do it for you. Just ask for a quote then compare their prices.
Remember, cost should not be your only deciding factor; always settle
for superior service above everything.