Setting Expectations for Working with a Designer

Apr 10

Every designer works differently. In fact, I highly recommend my previous post, To-may-to, To-mah-to, to see just how differently the term “interior designer” may be viewed by interior designers!

Before locking down a designer, it is so important to determine whether their method and expertise is a good fit for your needs.

If it is just technical, it is not a design.

We are Creatives

We relish the design process and soak up the ability to have as much freedom as possible. Needless to say, we aren’t super thrilled when a design is fully fleshed out by the owner and they just need someone to “draw it up”. While we may take this project type on during a slow stint, we will likely be found to be overpriced drafts people.

On the flip side, we thrive on communication and collaboration. We can create an awesome space solo, but that space will not reflect your needs, style, and expectations. So, expect to be available for communication and to provide feedback in a timely manner so that we can move forward and stay on schedule.

Be prepared to be challenged to step out of your comfort zone. We are hired based on our expertise, and sometimes this means that the expectation of what should be done is not always the best choice for your space. Trust us.

We are not Mind-Readers

I am actually stealing a little verbiage from my friend Capella here, because she put it SO well:

“As the client, it is important to be very clear on your expectations so your designer can focus on designing your space and not trying to decode your message and meanings. Here are some examples:
You say: Red is my favorite color, I'd like to incorporate it in my living room. You mean: I want my walls, carpet, sofa, and curtains to be red.  Your designer hears: She wants a red sofa or upholstered chair.
You say: I have $75,000 to spend. You mean: I have $150,000 to spend but don't want my designer to spend it all.  Your designer hears: They want to spend around $75,000.
You say: I'd like to have a place to store my surf boards.  You mean: It is non-negotiable to have a place to store my surf boards.  Your designer hears: Let's see if there is a feasible place to store the boards, maybe we can fit it in maybe not.”

Budget

This one actually has an article for itself, which I recommend reading here for more details. The quick version is that design can be expected to run 15-20% of your overall project budget. So, if you want to put $50k into your kitchen, expect to either add 15% or subtract 15% from the amount allocated toward that kitchen.

As far as calculating your budget, there is no surefire way to do this until the design is complete and we’ve begun tearing the space apart. It’s scary, I know. We do have some great methods as we move through the process to ensure that we stay on budget however.

If your budget is a firm number, be prepared to make adjustments to the design in order to meet those numbers.

Time

Design takes time. Most designs take a minimum of 6 weeks, not including construction (and that would be a tight timeline!). We have five design phases that are included in the process, and check in and present with you at least once during each phase. It is crucial to allow enough time to move through these phases thoughtfully.

Who Does What?

We will provide the “instructions” for your builder. Think of it like a set of Ikea drawings for building furniture. We develop those drawings, but we do not do the assembly. Sometimes the drawings can be confusing, so it’s a good call to keep us around to clarify and elaborate during the construction process.

As the artists behind the drawings, we also do not provide the products. For the most part your general contractor will provide all building materials. Things get iffy with decorative fixtures, and we suggest discussing this with your general contractor.

The owner hires and pays contractors and subcontractors such as electricians and painters. If a general contractor has been hired, they will hire the subcontractors and monitor their work and their schedule. We observe the progress of the work, to make sure conforms to plans and instructions. The contractors and subcontractors are responsible for their schedule and proper building practices. All final decisions are deferred to the owner.

In short- we provide the directions and the general contractor/sub contractors make it happen.

How about a little more?

We also created this booklet which we have found to be very helpful for most who are looking for a bit more in-depth information!

Have questions? Help others out who are looking for designers and post them below in the comments so that we can answer for all to see!

Rachel Waldron

Waldron Designs was founded by Rachel Waldron (that’s me!). in 2013.

I am so happy designing that it is not unusual to catch me in a giggle as I rev up to do my work. I think of my designs the way that I think of my children- each is unique and has their own personality. It is my job to nurture them and help them grow, not define them.

I got my bachelor's degree in interior design from Washington State University - a CIDA-accredited school - in 2005, immediately moved into a leadership position and have continued designing with passion.

I received my MBA in Marketing in 2012 and launched Waldron Designs in 2013. When I am not designing, you will find me enjoying my precious time with my husband and two spectacular children.