Posted at 12:00 p.m.
What is the scope of your project?
When making an appointment, the designer should ask what type of project you have in mind, in order to get a first idea. During the meeting, he will become acquainted with the place and will be able to assess whether there is a need to touch the surrounding parts. So, even if you only want to redo your kitchen, you may need to modify an adjoining space to meet your expectations.
What is your way of life?
The designer will then ask more specific questions in order to adjust the layout according to the dynamics of the residents. Who lives in the house? What is your routine, your way of life? For example, if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen and the family is often gathered, whether to do homework or to watch television, then the kitchen will be worked according to these criteria. The specialist will also have to plan the spaces in the short, medium and long term, taking into account the situation and the age of each one. By asking the previous questions, the designer should be able to better understand your personality and that of your spouse, if applicable. This is important because most of the time, decisions are made as a couple, one of the two may need more reassurance, but everyone must be satisfied. It is essential that chemistry passes between the professional and you, that the relationship is naturally cordial and that you feel confident. Otherwise, it is better to turn to someone else.
What is your budget and timeline?
Redo the kitchen first, then the entrance hall, then the staircase… The costs climb quickly and major work often takes several months. The designer needs to know what the budget includes (professional fees, labor, materials, contingencies) and whether it is realistic. They also need to know your timeline. Be as transparent as possible in your intentions so that he offers you to plan the work differently if necessary, in particular for reasons of cost or deadlines.
Where do you plan to live during the works (in the event of major renovations)?
Renovations represent a lot of stress, which many people are unaware of. It is hard for the couple and for the family. The designer must warn his clients that they will have to live in noise, dust and discomfort for a certain time or that they will have to live elsewhere for the duration of the work. This is an important point, because not everyone has relatives who offer to host them and it may be necessary to rent accommodation for a few months, which adds rental costs to the budget.
What are you expecting from me ?
From basic planning to turnkey contracts, the services that the interior designer can offer are wide, so he must discuss them with you to find out what type of mandate you wish to entrust to him.
Good to know
- The APDIQ brings together certified members. It is important to engage with a designer who takes out professional liability and public liability insurance.
- Ideally, meet three designers before making your choice.
- The designer’s fees vary according to his experience and the complexity of the project, from $75 to $150 per hour, but the pricing can also be flat rate.
- The discounts to which they are entitled from the various suppliers (materials, furniture, etc.) can offset their fees.
- A meeting between you, the designer (who designs) and the contractor (who realizes) usually leads to constructive information and effective results.