I have been a designer since the late 1980's and my philosophy has never changed...however the economy certainly has!
In general I believe that many people today are wary of hiring an interior designer. Perhaps they feel that designers do not concern themselves with budgets. Perhaps they feel that the amount of money they want to spend is too small ---
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Pottery Barn and HomeGoods Add Bang for the Buck |
However most people know that they need the finesse and abilities of an expert to bring their space together. A professional truly adds value to any project.
For example, one of the most rewarding aspects of an interior design project is accessorizing. It is the frosting on the cake, the jewelry that sets off an outfit--it is what makes or breaks an interior!
As a young designer I held the ladder and dusted the accessories for the lead designer as she clamored up and down; placing, moving and perfecting a bookcase. I learned so much about the impacts of positive and negative spaces, the play of textures, the necessities of lighting, the balance of colors. I also learned to take the collections of the owners, display them, augment them, and to do it for as economical a cost as possible. That is where the true creative talent lay.
In is a beach house I am currently designing in West Palm Beach, this bookcase is composed of the client's artwork and photos, in combination with Pottery Barn and HomeGoods accessories. Nothing expensive or custom. After all, artfully arranged, interesting objects come in all price points. Therefore, designing on a budget just makes sense.
Good interior design is NOT about spending money. It is all about creating beautiful spaces on a budget. That is the essence of creating value in your spaces. That is what a talented designer can do for you.
