With the change of seasons, children back in school, and the holidays fast approaching, many homeowners find themselves thinking about updating their spaces to create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. As the busy days of fall settle in, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home in preparation for gatherings with family and friends. If you’ve ever considered bringing in an interior designer to help, but aren’t sure where to begin, you’re not alone.

To help demystify what happens during that first appointment, I’m turning the tables. Instead of you asking the questions, I’m revealing what an interior designer might ask you. Take, for example, John and Jane, who live in an older home and are eager to update their space. From kitchen and bathroom remodels to new furniture and decor, they’re looking for an eventual complete overhaul. These types of questions will give you insight into the kind of information a designer needs to create a cohesive and personalized design plan.

Q: So, John and Jane, tell me a little about the fresh style you are looking to achieve. Do you have any inspirational pictures I could look at to understand the look you want since it’s different from what you currently have?

A: We want to modernize the house with current trends, but we don’t want it to be too trendy. We don’t have any pictures, but we do like a modern aesthetic.

Response: Modern can indeed mean different things to different people, and it’s important to ensure that the new style complements the existing exterior of your home. I recommend finding some inspiration online – look for pictures that you like and some you don’t. At our next meeting, we’ll review these images together to pinpoint what styles appeal to both of you, and I’ll work on integrating these elements into your home. This will help ensure that your space will reflect both of your tastes and create a cohesive look.

Synopsis: This line of questioning from a designer shows they are listening carefully to the clients’ needs and desires while also helping them clarify their style preferences.

Q: Since you’re not updating everything at once, do you have a preference for which space we should start with?

A: We’re not sure at all. This feels pretty overwhelming.

Response: Typically, it’s best to tackle major remodels, like kitchens and bathrooms, first. These areas set the tone for the rest of the house and often involve significant mess and disruption. By handling these spaces first, you avoid the hassle of potentially damaging new furniture or decor.

Synopsis: The designer’s role includes providing guidance on the most efficient and sensible order of projects, balancing budget and disruption. This approach helps manage the renovation process smoothly and minimizes stress.

Q: Once we start with the design, are there any special needs or considerations we should keep in mind? For example, do you have allergies, need wheelchair accessibility, or require kid- and pet-friendly fabrics? How do you use your home – are you big TV watchers in every room, or just the family room?

A: Yes, we have dogs and children. My father is in a wheelchair, so it would be great if the design accommodated his mobility.

Response: Providing details about how you live in your home helps me tailor the design to your specific needs. No request is too small or too unique. These questions will help us create a space that truly works for your lifestyle and preferences.

Synopsis: This aspect of the designer’s questioning process ensures that the final design accommodates practical needs and enhances the usability of the space.

Q: What is your budget for the project?

A: We’re not sure about the budget.

Response: It’s common for clients to be unsure about budgeting, especially if they haven’t researched costs or come from a different area. I can provide estimates based on average costs and the scope of your project. For example, a complete bathroom remodel often exceeds $10,000, especially if you’re not doing the work yourself. It’s important to set a realistic budget that aligns with the value of your home and the desired improvements. I’ll help you create a budget that ensures you get the most value without compromising on quality.

Synopsis: An experience designer helps clients set realistic budgets and provides guidance based on regional costs and project scope. This ensures that the renovations are financially feasible and add value to the home.

Hiring a professional is a journey, and find-ing someone you trust with your vision is key to a successful collaboration. While the design process can feel overwhelming at times, a qualified designer is there to make the experience both enjoyable and stress-free for you.