Design Question

What is the rate one should expect to pay an interior design specialist?  What is the best way to negotiate that rate?  Should references be made available or how else can one determine if she is dealing with a reputable firm? Thank you.

Design Answer

This is a good question – if you don’t want to tackle a decorating project for whatever reason (lack of time, experience or product knowledge) hiring an interior designer is a great alternative.

How much an interior designer will cost you can vary depending on a combination of factors including the designer’s experience, your location (what someone will be charged in Seattle will be different what a client in Miami will have to pay) and what you are having done and the size and complexity of the project. If you live outside of the city limits, some interior designers and the contractors they hire might charge you for traveling expenses. Interior design firms typically offer a range of services, from consultancy to full service packages from the planning stage to the final placement of candlesticks on the mantel and the cushions on the sofa. Also keep in mind that some designers bill by the hour; others charge a fixed fee based on a specific room (a different fee for a bedroom than for having the kitchen redone); and some designers who charge a fixed fee will also bill you a percentage of the cost of the products that were purchased for your interior design project.

The best way to negotiate a rate that is acceptable to you is to shop around and compare the designers’ credentials, the prices they’re charging and what services and goods they will be billing you for. Many interior designers offer a free estimate, giving you an outline of what you want done, the estimated number of hours the project will take and the proposed cost. Be clear about what you what you’re hiring the designer for and what you are expecting that person to do. Set a budget for your decorating project and let the designer know. Once you have decided on an interior designer, you will be asked to sign a contract, typically based on any estimate that was previously discussed. Before signing, make sure that you understand the firm’s fee structure and how and what you will be charged for.

When looking for a reputable firm, the best place to start is with recommendations from friends, family or even a co-worker whose opinion you trust. To ensure that the company you are interested in hiring is a good one, check with non-profit agencies in your area like the Better Business Bureau. People hiring someone, especially if that someone is to come into their home, should ask for references. Ask to see the interior designer’s portfolio and then contact the clients to get references from the company or individual who hired the designer. Do your homework. Do lots of research. Ask questions and ask for confirmation about any claims the interior designer makes such as how long they’ve been in business, their credentials, etc. Nowadays, many interior designers have websites. This can be a great resource for you: not only will you be able to see pictures of completed projects, but you will be able to get a sense of what this particular interior designer can offer and if this company would be the right one for you.

Thanks for writing in. And keep sending me your design questions.