How To Choose An Interior Design Firm For Your Home Or Business

By Howard Ellis & Shawn Tanney Richards

If you’re old enough, you may remember a popular band called The Lovin’ Spoonful. The lyrics from one of their hit songs went like this…

“Did you ever have to make up your mind? And pick up on one and leave the other behind?  It’s not often easy and not often kind. Did you ever have to make up your mind?” 

Choosing an Interior Design firm is kind of like that. So how do you make up your mind with confidence that you’re picking the right one and leaving the others behind? Here are a couple questions you may want to ask to begin the process:

Is the Interior Design firm licensed?  How long have they been in business? Ask friends, neighbors and professional business associates for recommendations. Request a referral from an Architect, Building Contractor, or Real Estate professional. They all interact frequently with Interior Designers and can steer you toward a well established, qualified firm.

Once you have this information, check out their website to view the quality and scope of their work and to learn more about the company. Call and speak with someone at the design studio you’re considering. Often the initial appointment is complimentary and it should help you determine if you’re comfortable and compatible with the designer(s) you have selected.

Writing down information about the scope of your project and bringing blueprints and pictures of the design style(s) you prefer, will expedite the process. And compile a list of any questions you may have.

Choosing the right Interior Designer can alleviate stress, save you money, and give you the home or business environment that suits your taste and lifestyle or business needs.

While this decision is not often easy and not often kind, hopefully this information will help you make up your mind.