A Designer Can Help with the Rough Patches by Rosemary Sadez Friedmann
Scripps Howard News Service
If you know you have a talent, like cooking, building, sewing, paper hanging, or a knack for interior decorating you likely will have the confidence to undertake do-it-yourself projects.
There are those, of course, who will also tell you that you will get more pleasure out of an accomplished project if it is done by the sweat of your brow than if it is all done for you. But in most cases, I think you will agree, an assistant would be an asset, particularly in the area of interior decorating.
The first thing you need to do is find a good designer. Sure, her or his style of design is important, but of even greater importance is the designer's personality and how it meshes with yours. You need to be on a comfortable level with your designer so you can discuss likes and dislikes and make changes or alterations in a plan without feeling uncomfortable.
Regardless, always remember that it is your house; you will be the one who has to live with what you purchase ... so it is better if it is to your liking.
The help of a designer, however, can help when you make any significant home interior purchases because, if the designer is good, you usually will save money. Sounds funny, but think of it this way: A good designer will tune in to your taste and will search for just the right things for you, saving you unnecessary running around. Your purchases will be of good quality, therefore they should last a much longer time and your whole house will have a coordinated flow that will be pleasant to live with.
So you say have the talent and want to do it yourself? Fine, a designer can assist you in finding and coordinating all or most of the items you need. I say most only because if you like to shop, you might want the adventure of searching for some items yourself. But be sure to make your designer aware of your finds so she can assist in coordination around them.
Just in case you're still not convinced, let me dispel a few myths about designers. If you think designers will turn your home into a reflection of themselves, think again. Remember who is paying the bill; you have control.
But designers are artists, so hear them out and let them show you their ideas. It is their job to be creative and you should be pleasantly surprised. If not, tell them to go back to the drawing board. Here is where the chemistry between you should be good or you'll need to find another designer.
Interior designers are not expensive. Actually, as mentioned before, you often can save money because the designer is and should be in control of the coordination of the entire project. This way, time is saved and mistakes are diminished. The designer will know and purchase good quality merchandise for you so your purchases will be long lasting.
Don't hide the budget. You will save yourself and the designer a lot of time and aggravation if you know in advance and tell the designer your budget limitations. Telling a designer you want your place to look good but that you don't want to spend too much money is not a good enough answer; do some soul-searching beforehand and come up with a reasonable budget. At this point your designer should be honest with you and tell you if it is possible to do what you want with that budget.
If you want to do it all yourself, but just want guidance or moral support, go ahead and hire a designer for consultation. Most would be glad to work on an hourly basis.
One last point: An affiliation with a reputable company, a membership in a national design association and a license to practice are all important points to look for in an interior designer.
(Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, a member of the American Society of Interior Designers, is president of Rosemary Sadez Friedmann Inc. in Naples, Fla.)
Resources American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
608 Massachusetts Ave. NE
Washington, DC 20002-6006
Phone: 202-546-3480
Fax: 202-546-3240
E-mail:
asid@asid.org
Website:
www.asid.org
interior design services - Rosemary Sadez Friedmann
Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, Inc.
Naples, FL 34102
Phone: 941-261-5944
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