The initial design consultation of any project is always an exhilarating and often overwhelming experience. It’s difficult to know exactly how to communicate what it is you want out of your space, and that’s why we’ve put together a list gathered from the experts that will help you and your design team maximize your time and your space. These helpful hints will have you looking like the pro and will ensure your initial meeting is as productively and seamlessly as possible.
1. Figure Out Your Budget
Be honest about the amount of money you are able to spend on your project(s). This way you and your designer can have an open conversation about what is feasible and what may have to be accomplished at a later date. This gives you the opportunity to decide on a timeline to achieve all of your projects in a way that makes sense to you and your lifestyle. Additionally, this will help your designer prioritize where they need to try to cut costs, and offer materials/ideas accordingly.
2. Observe and (Over)share
The more you tell your designer about the space you’re looking to makeover the more suggestions and ideas they might have to enhance your vision. Take note of these subtleties in the days leading up to your consult. Does the room get a lot of natural light at certain times during the day? Does it feel colder than normal? Your designer might have ideas on how to work with these natural elements of the room to have it functioning optimally.
3. Do Your Homework
We are living in the age where millions of ideas are just a few clicks away. Make sure you take advantage of this wealth of information and inspiration by checking out websites like Pinterest and Houzz to get a clearer picture of what you want (and what you don’t). Focus on everything from functionality to color; texture and print. You’ll be surprised how quickly your own ideas come into focus. The more research you do, the better you’ll be able to articulate what exactly you want form your consult to the professional you’re working with, and the better they’ll be able to execute your vision.
4. Nail-down Your Needs
Make a list of your have tos: these are the things that are most important to you or certain functions you rely on. This can be anything from a “family control center” that helps keeps everyone in the household organized to a walk-in closet. Having your priorities clearly in order at the start of this process will help ensure the most important aspects of your home’s makeover do not fall victim to compromises in case you meet any unexpected road blocks. This also means deciding what aspects of your home (furniture, accessories, artwork, etc.) that you are willing to part with, and what has to stay.
5.Be Open Minded
Of course, at the end of the day the designer understands that you are the one that will be living in your home, and therefore you get the last word, but it is important to keep an open mind. Remember the years of experience these professionals have under their belt and understand that they may bring some insight to the table that you may not have considered. Listening and being open to new ideas can ensure your space maintains a cohesive overall aesthetic that works in your home. Another way of saying this is trust your designer: trust that they will hear what you want to bring to life and find a way to make it happen.
Leave a comment (all fields required)
Comments will be approved before showing up.
