How to choose an interior designer

Please answer the following questions before searching:

What's wrong with the current interior? (lack of light, cramped space, outdated style).

Do you need a complete redesign or spot changes?

Are you planning a large-scale renovation or just decorating?

The clearer you formulate the request, the easier it will be to explain it to the specialist. For example, if you dream of a smart home, look for a designer with technology integration experience.

Interior designers often focus on certain areas.:

• residential spaces (apartments, country houses),
• commercial projects (offices, restaurants, shops),
• niche styles (ecodesign, Scandinavian minimalism, Art Deco).

Study the profiles of specialists on platforms like Houzz, Behance or Instagram. If you want a loft-style apartment, a designer who works only with classics is unlikely to be suitable.

When viewing the works, pay attention to:

• Details — how storage is organized, furniture is arranged, lighting is used.
• Realistic — if there are only expensive projects in your portfolio and your budget is modest, there may be a conflict of interest.
• "Before and after" — such cases show how a designer solves complex problems (for example, redevelopment of a small apartment).

Ask how a specialist approaches zoning and space optimization — this is the key to comfort.

Design is not just about aesthetics. A good specialist understands the building codes and rules of redevelopment. He knows how to choose materials that combine their properties (for example, moisture-resistant for a bathroom).

It works with 3D visualization — this will help you "see" the result before the repair begins.

Ask if the designer cooperates with trusted contractors. This will save time and reduce the risk of errors.

The cost of services may include:

• a fixed amount per project
• hourly payment (rarely, more often for consultations).

It would be wise to clarify whether the cost includes site visits and author’s supervision. Who is in charge of purchasing materials — you or the designer (some receive discounts from suppliers).

Avoid professionals who insist on expensive solutions without alternatives.

A face-to-face meeting or a video call will help you understand if you find a common language easily? You’ll be communicating for months — it’s important that the designer inspires trust. Is he ready to adapt the ideas to your lifestyle? For example, if you have children or pets, furniture should be practical. Does he ask clarifying questions? ("How often do you receive guests?", "Do you like to cook?").

Ask them to tell you about the most difficult project in practice — this will show how the designer solves problems.

There is no contract. Without a document documenting deadlines, budget, and responsibilities, you risk being left without guarantees.

Lack of feedback. If a designer disappears for weeks, it’s a wake-up call.

Template solutions. A unique interior is not based on identical solutions "from project to project".

Even if the designer seems perfect on paper, it’s important that you feel comfortable with that person. Trust and mutual understanding are the keys to successful cooperation.