Do you need a designer or merely a decorator? A decorator has no special qualifications. Anyone can decide to be an interior decorator and start offering their services. They may be qualified to make decisions about color or fabric or window shutters vs. blinds, but most of them have had no formal training. In particular, they are not qualified to do projects that have to meet building codes.
A designer is a professional who has the education and experience to offer more involved services. In most states they have to be registered and demonstrate their high professional standards and commitment to continuing education. Many of them are members of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) and IFDA (International Furnishings and Design Association) and these memberships indicate they have passed tests of ability and experience showing their competence in the profession.
Decorators are generally less expensive than designers and are good choices for the budget-conscious homeowner with a simple project such as installing indoor window shutters. If the project is more involved and certainly if it requires any kind of construction, a designer will be necessary.
How to Find a Professional
As with any consultant, start with word of mouth. Talk to friends, relatives, and co-workers to find out of any of them have had good experiences in the past. You can visit show houses or consult local design magazines for names as well.
If you are looking for a designer rather than a decorator, you can call 1-800-ASK-ASID to get referrals from the American Society of Interior Designers. You will be provided with the names of 3 designers in your area that you can interview.
Once you have a few names, review their body of work. Many have online portfolios or you can meet with them and review their work in person. You want to find someone with a style that appeals to you so you don't end up with a room you don't like.
Interview the candidates and talk about their design philosophies. Get a feel for how you will work together. It's important to build a personal rapport to make communication during the project easier.
Seal the Deal
Once you find someone you like, hammer out the details about the scope of the work, your budget, and a few other details.
In the past, designers made their money through marking up the products they sold. However that fee structure is disappearing as online shopping makes it cheaper for clients to purchase their own window shutters and blinds. Today, most designers charge an hourly fee for their services. Before the project begins, get a letter of agreement, a document that covers all the business details of the transaction and protects both parties.
If you've never hired a designer or a decorator before, you may be surprised at the results! Even a project as simple as window shutters or window treatments can turn out much more complete and professional than you ever imagined would be possible in your home.
