Many times hiring outside expertise to assist you with your interior decorating needs can be a real plus, and more cost effective than you may have realized. Designers and decorators come in all styles, levels of service, and a variation of fees. Here I will suggest some of the best reasons to consider hiring a professional and describe what to look for in hiring a designer. I will continue by detailing some of the more popular types of services and the fees associated, and how to be a good client, getting the most from your designer.

Decorator vs. Designer: What is the difference?

First it is important to understand the difference between a decorator and a designer. A designer, typically, has a degree in design backed by years of education and experience in the field. A designer is likely to be more familiar with the technical aspects of design, in addition to excellence in the decorative aspects. They are skilled in spaceplanning, can tackle remodeling and new construction projects with ease, while still providing furnishings, rugs, artwork and accessories. Designers handle all phases of an interior project.

A decorator, on the other hand, does not share formal education in design, and while they may have experience, tend to be more familiar with the decorative parts of the job, fabrics, finishes and such. Often they have worked into the field from enjoying it as a hobby. Fees for each are different, decorators ranging from $35-$50 per hour, while designers often charge $75-$150 per hour; and you are hiring a different set of skills and talents.

Saving Time

A designer can save you valuable time, by knowing the best places to shop and knowing exactly what to look for. Sometimes you may find you will go to the same place but overlook just the right accent or accessory. What may take a homeowner several hours or weekends, can take a skilled professional just a couple of hours to locate. These professionals are also more likely to have access to unique and distinctive elements to custom fit their clients needs.

Saving Money

A designer can save you money, their knowledge, expertise, and guidance can help prevent costly mistakes. They can provide more timeless and appropriate solutions to dilemmas, than the stop gap you may be tempted to buy, only finding you have to replace it later. In some cases, discounts are received and the designer will share these or split these with their client.

Simplify Your Life

A designer can simplify your life, by making the most of what you already have. They preserve cherished treasures and family heirlooms, and research those hard-to-find pieces to fill in the gaps. They assist you in making informed selections from a vast number of product resources.

Define and Enhance Your Style

A designer can help you define and enhance your own style. They work with you to create a home that reflects your personal taste and meets your changing needs. The best designs showcase the homeowner and the lifestyle they have, it tells something about the people living there. Your home is your external heart, and opening the door is like opening a book of your life.

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