When hiring an interior designer, you may have certain expectations for what their role will be for your project. It is important and helpful to understand the roles and responsibilities of your designer versus another member of your team.
In a previous post, we outlined the differences between the roles of interior designer and architect. Today, we break down what the exact role of a designer is, sharing what such a role consists of and what it doesn't.
What an Interior Designer Does
- Arranges and leads meetings with clients and members of the design team.
- Provides consulting services to help determine overall project goals and objectives.
- Evaluates and recommends ideas for the functional and aesthetic possibilities of a space.
- Works with architects and builders to create home plans.
- Coordinates with the architect to select/specify exterior materials and colors.
- Creates illustrations and renderings for interior concepts.
- Develops CAD conceptual drawings to help the client visualize the end result.
- Allocates, organizes, and arranges a space to suit its function; provides furniture layouts.
- Selects and specifies fixtures, furnishings, products, materials and colors.
- Provides the builder with a comprehensive specification matrix that outlines interior and exterior selections as specified by the firm.
- Procures furnishings, accessories and the like.
- Installs furnishings and accessories in a client's home.
- Works with the design team to come up with solutions when issues arise.
What an Interior Designer Doesn't Do
- Does not serve as the project manager of the construction of your home and is not on-site on a daily basis.
- Does not develop construction documents.
- Does not manage or oversee subcontractors hired by the architect or builder.
- Does not order materials {i.e. flooring, countertops, tile, hardware and the like}. Designers specify the materials and provide the information to the builder, who reviews and procures the materials.
Depending on the interior design firm you hire, their roles and responsibilities might vary. For our firm in particular though, these are the tasks and jobs our interior design team handles for our clients.
Do you have an upcoming design or renovation project you need help with? We would love to be a part of your project and help you with designing your dream home. Contact one of our designers today.
Photos by: Rachael Boling