If you’re planning to renovate your home, you'll probably have done some research and shortlisted a few interior design studios you like. The next step is setting up a meeting with your potential interior designer.
Ensure you make the most of your meeting by doing some preparatory work before the session. Read on to learn what you should prepare before meeting your interior designer for the first time.
Consider Your Needs
Who will the occupants of this house be? What kind of lifestyle do you lead? What activities will you perform in your home? Considering these questions helps you conceptualise your future abode and how it can effectively serve your lifestyle.
For example, if you're part of a growing family, you may be looking for an family-friendly environment that is easy to clean and maintain.
It would be best to communicate your needs clearly to your interior designer—your consultation is a judgement-free zone. Therefore, there is no need to feel embarrassed about your everyday habits and needs; your interior designer's priority is ensuring that the space makes you happy.
It helps to prepare a list of priorities and objectives to show your interior designer. This is vital to the creation of a personalised and functional home.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget beforehand helps the interior designer decide on the project's scope. With a number in mind, they can tell you what would be feasible and what affordable alternatives you can opt for instead.
If you’re unsure how much the project will cost, you can take a look at furniture shops and interior design showrooms. This will help you better understand how much you should expect to spend.
Create a Moodboard
A moodboard is a collage of images communicating your design concepts and ideas. Preparing one beforehand ensures everyone involved in the project is on the same page. After all, there are many ways to interpret a single concept; your idea of a clean and minimalist may differ from your partner's.
Your moodboard can be composed of Instagram posts, Pinterest pictures, and magazine cut-outs. Ultimately, it should set a visual expectation, answering questions such as "What colour scheme do I want?" and "What furniture pieces should I be purchasing?".
Organising your moodboard according to rooms is best because each has a different use.
Have a Floor Plan
Compile essential information and floor plans to give to your interior designer. This gives them context, helping them create a better approach and check whether your ideas are feasible given the available space.
Provide an Estimated Timeline
Preparing a rough timeline helps your interior designer plan their approach and decide whether they have sufficient time to carry out the work you want.
When creating your timeline, make sure to plan for possible complications. Therefore, it is best to add a buffer period of at least a month before moving in.
Prepare Questions
Your first meeting with your interior designer should help you evaluate how well you work together. Hence, you should prepare a list of questions that will help you assess whether your visions are aligned. Ask them about their portfolio, signature design, and working styles.
Conclusion
Doing some preparatory work before meeting with your interior designer is crucial. Setting a budget, timeline, and moodboard beforehand can help speed up the ideation process and allow you to make the most out of your first meeting.
If you're interested in engaging such services, consider Flo Design, an interior design studio in Singapore. Our interior designers are experienced in landed property, condo, and HDB interior design.
