Working with an interior designer can be both exciting and a bit daunting. You want your home to reflect who you are, but you might be wondering, “How can I make sure that happens when someone else is doing the designing?” The good news is, personalising your home while working with a designer is easier than you think, especially when you collaborate effectively.
So, let’s talk about how you can take charge of the process, ensuring the result is a space that feels 100% yours, with the added bonus of a professional touch.
1. Know Your Style, But Stay Open to Suggestions
When it comes to personalising your home, knowing what you like is the first step. Spend time browsing online, flicking through magazines, or even visiting showrooms to gather ideas. Are you a fan of sleek modern spaces, or do you prefer something more rustic and cosy? Do certain colours make you feel calm, or are you drawn to bold, vibrant shades? It’s all about pinpointing what makes you feel at home.
However, while it’s essential to have a vision, don’t be afraid to leave some room for the designer’s expertise. After all, they know the latest trends, the best materials, and how to bring ideas to life in ways you might not have considered. A great interior designer will take your preferences and enhance them, not override them.
2. Communicate Clearly—No Mind Reading Required
Designers are creative professionals, not mind readers. So, don’t shy away from being direct about what you want. During your initial meetings, share as much information as possible. Pictures, Pinterest boards, and even photos of things you don’t like can help shape your designer’s understanding of your tastes. If something’s important to you—say, a family heirloom or a specific piece of artwork—let them know it must be incorporated into the design.
On the flip side, be just as clear about what doesn’t work for you. If a certain style or material isn’t your thing, say so upfront. No one benefits from vague hints or second-guessing later in the project. Designers appreciate clients who are honest and upfront from the beginning.
3. Set a Realistic Budget
Talking about money can sometimes feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most critical aspects of working with an interior designer. The last thing you want is to fall in love with a design that’s way out of your price range. Be clear from the start about how much you’re willing to spend, and make sure the budget includes room for unexpected costs, because they often pop up.
This helps your designer make informed decisions, avoiding wasted time on ideas or materials that are too expensive. Being upfront about the budget also gives the designer a clear framework to work within, ensuring there are no surprises down the line.
4. Get Involved Without Micromanaging
This is your home, so it makes sense to stay involved throughout the project. Regularly check in on the progress, ask questions, and offer feedback. It’s your space, after all! But here’s the thing—trust your designer’s process.
There’s a balance to be struck between being involved and micromanaging. If you’ve picked a professional whose portfolio you admire and had great initial conversations, trust that they’re doing their job. Give feedback when needed, but also allow them to surprise you with creative solutions you might not have considered.
5. Don’t Rush the Process
Designing a home that’s truly personal and unique to you isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s tempting to want everything finished quickly, but good design takes time. Whether it’s finding the perfect piece of furniture, sourcing high-quality materials, or waiting for bespoke items to be made, patience is key.
Your home is a long-term investment, so giving the design process time to unfold ensures you end up with a space that you’ll love for years to come.
6. Be Open to New Ideas
Sometimes, what you initially envisioned might not be the best fit once you start working with a designer. That’s okay! You might have your heart set on one thing, but a designer might suggest something that you hadn’t considered—and it could turn out even better.
For example, you may think you want an all-neutral palette, but your designer suggests adding a pop of colour. Or perhaps you envisioned minimalist furniture, but a more eclectic mix might bring out the character of your home better. Keep an open mind throughout the process.
7. Understand the Practicalities
It’s easy to get swept up in the aesthetics of it all, but your home needs to be functional too. A designer will take into account the layout, traffic flow, and how you use each space day to day. This is where their experience really comes in handy.
If you’re dreaming of a statement coffee table that looks great but would be a nightmare to move around, a designer can steer you towards options that are both stylish and practical. Make sure you’re clear about how you live, so they can design with your lifestyle in mind.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Process!
At the end of the day, designing your home should be a fun and rewarding experience. It’s about creating a space that’s not only visually appealing but also feels like home. Collaborating with an interior designer is a partnership, and when it works well, you get the best of both worlds: your vision, brought to life with professional flair.