If you have never worked with an interior designer Los Angeles-located before, you may be wondering how you know which professional is ideal for your interior design job. Taking the time to sit down with an interior designer for a consultation and asking specific questions is one of the best ways to help you find the designer who is a great match for your project. Here are a few important questions to ask as you look to hire an interior design professional.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
One of the first questions that you should ask an interior designer is how long they have been in business. From there, you can ask more specific questions pertaining to your design needs. For example, if you are looking to get a designer to help you with your kitchen, ask the professional how many kitchens they have helped bring to life. You want to ensure the interior designer has the skills and expertise to really help you with your project.
Do You Have a Portfolio of Your Work?
Anytime you are looking to work with an interior designer, you should always ask them to view their portfolio of work. A great interior designer will have before and after pictures to help you see just how amazing they are at their job. As you take a look at their portfolio, ask yourself if you would be happy with the quality of work that is present in the finished product. If you would not be happy with the finished product, then that interior designer is likely not the right professional for you. However, if you love what you see in their portfolio, they may be the perfect interior designer for your needs.
Can I Contact Past Clients?
Another important question to ask if you are looking to hire an interior designer is whether they will allow you to talk to some of their past clients. If they allow you to, you need to know what questions to ask some of those past clients. Some important questions to ask include:
- Did the interior designer finish the project on time?
- Did the interior designer finish the project at the budgeted amount?
- Are you happy with the interior designers’ work?
- Would you work with the interior designer again?
- Would you recommend the interior designer to your friends and family?
Asking past clients these questions will help you get a feel for what it may be like to work with a professional and if they are a good fit for your project.
What Do You Envision For My Space?
A great interior designer will want to view your space before they sign a contract to work with you. One of the questions that you should ask when they are viewing your space is what they envision for your space. You want to find out if the vision that you have for your space aligns with the vision that they have for your space. If you have two completely different visions, you and the interior designer may not be on the same page.
How Do You Charge Clients?
Lastly, always take the time to find out how an interior designer charges clients. Not every interior designer is the same and the way they charge can vary. Some interior designers charge by the hour, while others may charge a flat rate for a specific project. Some interior designers charge a 10 percent markup for any furnishings and decor they buy, while other interior designers expect you to buy the furniture. Always ensure that you know how payment works and what you are paying for versus what the interior designer is paying for.
An interior designer can help maximize your space and help make your home look exactly the way you want. Whether you are looking to complete an interior design project for just one space in your home, or you are looking to redesign your entire home, an interior designer can help. Reach out to local interior design companies to schedule consultations to help you find the ideal interior designer for your needs.
