Whether you’re refreshing one room or giving your entire home a new look, hiring an interior designer can make the process easier—and often more enjoyable. But like any important partnership, finding the right person is about more than loving their portfolio.
Start by defining your own style. Spend some time saving photos of rooms that catch your eye. Are you drawn to coastal comfort, clean contemporary lines, traditional elegance or something more eclectic? Having a visual starting point makes it much easier to find a designer whose work naturally aligns with your taste.
Next, look beyond beautiful photos. Browse a designer’s portfolio, website and social media pages to see if they have experience with projects similar to yours. Reading client reviews can also provide insight into how they communicate and manage projects from beginning to end.
Once you’ve narrowed your choices, schedule a consultation. This is your opportunity to see whether the relationship feels like a good fit. The best designers spend as much time listening as they do talking. They should ask about your lifestyle, how you use your home, your priorities, your timeline and your budget before suggesting solutions.
Speaking of budgets, don’t be shy about discussing money early in the process. Ask how fees are structured, what’s included, and whether project management, shopping, installations or revisions are part of the package. Every designer works differently, so clear expectations help prevent surprises later.
It’s also worth asking how involved you’d like to be. Some homeowners enjoy shopping for furnishings and making selections themselves, while others prefer a designer to handle every detail. Neither approach is right or wrong—as long as everyone is on the same page.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is this: trust your instincts. You’ll be working closely with this person for weeks or even months, so choose someone who listens well, communicates clearly and respects your vision. A talented interior designer doesn’t create their dream home—they help bring your dream home to life.
With the right partnership, the result is more than a beautiful space. It’s a home that feels comfortable, functional and unmistakably yours.
Homeowners Share Their Best Advice
When homeowners were asked what they wish they had known before hiring an interior designer, a few themes came up again and again.
Communication topped the list. Many said the best experiences happened when designers took time to ask thoughtful questions, listened carefully and respected the homeowner’s vision instead of steering every decision.
Several people recommended reviewing a designer’s portfolio before committing. Seeing examples of previous work helps determine whether their style matches your own—and whether they can successfully work in different design styles.
Budget was another common topic. Homeowners suggested discussing fees upfront, understanding exactly what services are included, and asking how purchases are handled. Some preferred paying a flat design fee, while others liked designers who offered flexibility by allowing clients to shop on their own.
Many also encouraged gathering inspiration before the first meeting. Saving photos from magazines, Pinterest or Houzz gives designers a clearer picture of the look you’re hoping to achieve.
Finally, homeowners agreed on one thing: don’t be afraid to ask questions. The right designer welcomes conversation, values your input and wants the finished space to reflect your personality—not someone else’s.
The right interior designer can help you create a home that's as beautiful as it is comfortable, functional, and uniquely yours.