What is the difference between a Decorator and a Designer? Simply put, anyone can get a business license as a decorator. To acquire a business license, a decorator needs no formal training while a designer has, at minimum, an undergraduate degree from an Interior Design program. Generally speaking, programs for interior design are similar to architectural programs in so far as they teach about building systems as applied to interiors, wall types, and an introduction to building codes to name a few. Additionally, design programs generally teach about design history, history of furnishings, architectural drafting, color, light, textiles, and space. From university to university the programs, their focus and their components, vary as do the degrees offered; the fundamentals, however, remain common.

What is a Registered Interior Designer? In order to be a Registered Interior Designer in the State of GA, must apply to and be found qualified by the Secretary of State’s Board of Architects and Interior Designers. For specific information, visit HERE.

One of the tests required by the Secretary of State to qualify to become registered is the NCIDQ exam. An interior designer who has gone beyond basic college education to pursue excellence will apply to take the national exam for Interior Designers that quantifies and qualifies the designer’s expertise. This is The National Council for Interior Design Qualification designs and administers the test. Visit their website at www.ncidq.org to find out more.

Do I choose a Decorator or a Designer for my project? That is a matter of project scope and requirements coupled by your own values. If you plan to move non-load bearing walls, plumbing, HVAC, etc., you should hire a designer. If you are adding decorative surface treatments, furniture, and other non-structural items, you may choose to hire either a designer, or a decorator. Decide what assistance you require, and do your research. There are some very high priced decorators out there. Although, they may be worth every penny of their fee due to their experience in the decorative arts, their knowledge of the furniture and art industry, and their history of client satisfaction, you may not be saving any money.

Why hire a professional Interior Designer? There are many possible answers for that question, and the exact answer for you will be determined by the specific needs of you and your project. For most people the best reasons are to work with someone with experience managing a design related project; understanding the process and the industry, time lines and lead times; knowing what questions to ask of the manufacturers, distributors, and contractors; a knowledge of resources and of specific product qualities; and, generally, to have someone to direct you regarding a sense of balance about the project on the whole.

Why not use the free services offered to me by one of my local furniture galleries? You may choose this route, but don’t be fooled by furniture stores touting “free design services.” It is not always company policy to hire formally educated designers. Furthermore, the primary motivation of the salesperson providing you with design advice may be a higher commission based on the furnishings they help you to select and encourage you to purchase. More importantly, the “designer” with whom you work will likely never see your home and the many nuances it provides to the overall project. The best solution may not be loose furniture at all, or perhaps it’s a product that they don’t sell. Color will change based upon the lighting in any given space. What matches at the furniture gallery may not match at home. What if you don’t like the end result or something about the furniture that you were advised to purchase? Read the fine print, you often have no recourse at all.

A private designer acts objectively on behalf of the client to ensure that all of the project criteria are met and are balanced and that the best possible solution to the design problem is reached. That solution can then be priced through a number of retailers so that the best possible price can be obtained. As well, there may be long term objectives for that specific space or for those adjacent to it. Your designer will keep this in mind and enable you to make informed long term decisions.

How should I choose an Interior Designer? Finding the right designer for you is much like finding the right doctor. Personality and Specialty should be the largest factors in your choice. Don’t allow Cost to drive the ultimate decision, consider the value of the services you’ll be provided and the value of your own time.

Determine your budget. Design fees can vary dramatically from one firm to another, so figure out what you are willing to spend and what you can afford to pay for design services. Design costs money. Hiring a design professional can be the most worthwhile investment you make in your project. For residential design work, don’t be surprised if there is an initial first-visit fee to review your home; free consultations are rare.

Interview a number of designers. Review their professional credentials and their portfolios and request a list of references. Confirm their accreditations. Speak to the references provided to you. Figure out with whom you are most comfortable.

If working with a firm, find out with whom you will have primary contact and find out if you communicate well with that person. One of the key elements of a successful project is effective communication between you and your designer. Projects can be long in duration and are often stressful for the owners because they are anxious about the end result. Don’t add more stress by entering into a long-term relationship with a person with whom you have difficulty communicating. I am an out-spoken person who tends to develop friendships with my clients. Friendship or no, you want to feel in your gut that you can trust the person with whom you choose to work.

Be sure that the designer is qualified to accomplish the end result you desire. Due to the vast amount of resources and information available in the interior design field, there are certain specialties within that field. Certain types of projects bear specific similarities to them, for example hospital design is very different from church design. While these both fall within the realm of commercial space, the functions are quite different; therefore, the materials used within them are very different. Ask to see projects of similar size, budget, or style. Some designers focus on traditional, high-style interiors while others focus on contemporary or perhaps trendy styles. Some work exclusively in a specific type of interior design such as retail, commercial, hospitality, or residential works. Some have the ability to cross over, others may not. Some are only interested in their specific area, others thrive on diversity.

Discuss the contract. There are a number of ways that designers bill for their time. Be sure that you understand the specifics. How do they charge for their time? How do they calculate and invoice? Do they upcharge on FF+E? What are the payment terms? What are the repercussions if payments are late? What securities do they grant to you?