How To Choose An Interior Decorator.

What criteria should you look for?

The decision to hire an interior decorator can be confusing and daunting. Most homeowners are primarily concerned with the cost. While this is a major consideration, equal weight should be given to credentials, experience, reviews and stylistic approach. 

Another important decision is matching up with a designer. Finding the right person for the job is like relating to a therapist……..it’s got to be a good fit!

Taking the steps to find a suitable interior decorator will help you make an informed decision. I would like to share some tips on how to go about this process, broken down in two phases.

Phase 1: Researching -credentials -reviews -portfolio of local businesses

Phase 2: Researching -various decorating styles -your preferences -deciding what spaces you want to design and functionality of each room

Phase 1 Research:

Questions to ask an Interior Decorator:

Where were you trained?

An Interior Decorator is not required to have a degree or be licensed by their state, but should be credentialed by a recognized educator in the field. Ask where they were trained. 

Side note: an Interior Designer is licensed and educated in architecture and spatial planning. They plan the space and the interior decorator completes it. (Interior designers also decorate).

How many years have you been in the design business? 

I would say the business should be established for at least 3 years (this is not a scientific fact, but my opinion as a well established business owner). 3 years should give the interior decorator sufficient time to: 

1) capture reviews 

2) show legitimacy  

3) gain experience and professionalism.  

This is not to say that a business that is less than 3 years old would not be a good fit and worthy of consideration

Is your Interior Decorating business insured/registered in your state?

Ask who they are insured with.  Ask if they are registered in their state.

Do you have a portfolio?

Their portfolio should be a clear representation of design style while demonstrating the ability to be eclectic. No designer will suit all clients but you should be able to get a sense of whether their portfolio resonates with you. The photos should be clear, well photographed, recent and display a variety of rooms/projects.

Do you have reviews? Where can I find them?

If an interior decorator has been in business for at least 3 years, they should have a decent amount of reviews. I would say at least 10, as projects can last several months before a review is given. They are difficult to capture, but we always request one. They should be 4.5-5 stars.

Look how recent the reviews are and how far back they go. This will verify how long they have been in business and that they are still active

Phase 2 Research:

What is your decorating style?

You can collaborate with your designer by narrowing down your decorating style. It’s okay to choose two styles and your designer will decide if they can be integrated. Educate yourself on design styles so you can articulate or show them. This will help guide your interior decorator to search for furniture and decor matching your preferences.

It’s okay not to know exactly what you prefer, your designer will take into account the style of the home and how your existing furnishings (if you are not doing a total redesign) will work with new selections.

Think about color palettes, artistic themes and what you want to highlight.

What room(s) do you want to design?

For each room, decide on what you want to keep (if anything) and what to replace. It is the job of the interior decorator to integrate the existing furniture and decor new selections.

How will you utilize each room?

Your designer will want to know the functionality of each room. Have a clear vision of how you want to use each space. For example: Will your living room be a formal gathering place for friends and relatives or a daily cozy family hangout?  Will your guest room double as an office?

It’s better for the flow and organization of the home if you designate a single activity to each room. Example: Don’t have workout equipment in your bedroom. If you are short on space, think about a divider to section off and hide the exercise equipment.

The Cost of hiring an Interior Decorator

The average range should be: $125.00-150.00+ per hour. This depends on years of experience and services offered. Some interior decorators bundle by room charging an *estimate* of $700-1000+ per room.

Ultimately, the cost will depend on whether each room is a full design or partial. The fee will also take into account the number of design items requested, size of the room and luxury level of the home.  

These are *estimates* and a guideline, not to be used as a quote or to negotiate prices.

Design fees do not include purchases.

If you follow these tips, chances are you will save yourself time and money and be less prone to make costly design mistakes. 

Good luck and happy designing.

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