Why use the services of an interior designer?
Is it really worth hiring an interior designer or can you do it yourself? The answer to both is ‘yes’! This article is designed to give you the pros and cons of going it alone and using the services of an interior designer.
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Who knew that there are so many shades of white! Have you ever finished a project and the result just didn’t seem quite right? It’s hard to put your finger on exactly what it is, but you know something is missing. The internet and social media is loaded with information on do-it-yourself guides to everything - including interior design and decorating. So is it worth using the services of a qualified interior designer, or are you better off going it alone? Hopefully, this information will help you decide.
ImageSource: iStock: Image Credit: Lilas Gh
Beautiful design and decoration doesn’t just happen. It is underpinned by thorough research, planning, and deliberate curation. Understanding design elements and principles are the keys to ensuring that the final result looks and feels great. Whilst some people just have a natural flair where creativity comes easy, it’s hard to know where to start for a lot of people. That’s where interior designers are invaluable; they have in-depth knowledge and understanding of how to incorporate all of the elements and principles to bring a room, or the whole house, together and will be considering all of these things way before you even get to the fun part of design.
These include consideration of building codes, heritage-listed home restrictions, permits, possible structural issues, and the list goes on. Whether you want the latest trend or a style that is going to last for years to come, interior designers keep up to date with what’s new, what’s in, and more importantly, what’s out! They will advise on emerging trends, styles, materials, and products - some of which are only available to clients via trades.
Choosing fixtures and fittings is another important element to consider. Unlike paint, these can’t be easily replaced and the wrong choice could really blow the budget. Shower screens, tapware, flooring, tiles (think shape, size, texture, and colour), sinks, upholstery (do you have pets?), wallpaper, and whether to have curtains, blinds, or nothing at all - all of these selections and more need to be carefully considered as one, and with the confidence that when the project finishes, it will be just right. Enter your friendly interior designer!
Applying their knowledge, experience, and skill, an interior designer will combine all of the above and lots more, to make sure that the finished result brings your design vision to life and that it all ‘works’.
When it comes to furniture, it’s important to consider scale and proportion - not only of the room but the furniture itself. For example, a small living room is going to look even smaller with an oversized sofa with fat, rolled-edge arms and a small bedroom will look like a cupboard with a massive, bulky bedhead. The secret is to think skinny! A more slim-lined sofa with slender legs and a simple scaled-back bedhead can be better choices.
Finally, don’t overlook your accessories and your artwork. Accessories are the icing on the cake - they often tie spaces together, add interest and can bring a touch of colour and texture. When selecting accessories, keep in mind the overall design style. Whilst eclectic can be good, it needs to be carefully curated.
Amazing spaces are often designed around a favourite piece of art. When thinking about artwork, remember scale and proportion are the keys!
As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when renovating, designing and decorating - and I’ve only touched on the tip of the iceberg. Many of you reading this will be thinking, ‘I think I’ve got this!’ - that’s great and good on you - give it a go! But for those of you who are a bit unsure, I’d love to help you create your dream home.
Please feel free to reach out to see how we can work together.
- Janine Nairn
Creative Director