What To Expect at an Interior Design Consultation

Interior designers use consultations in different ways. It is a very important part of the design process.  At Signature Designs, we begin the process with a 20-minute discovery call.  This call consists of a conversation about your project and which one of our services would best fit your needs.  

What’s included in our design consultations?

Once you have paid for an in-home consultation, we will arrive at your project location to learn more about your vision for the space. We will tour your home and ask questions concerning the spaces to be addressed for the scope of work that needs improvement.  We have been asked by potential clients if the consultation fee is applied to the design fee after we are hired, it is not.  

We will discuss typical ways to layout the space, general ideas on what elements could be used in the space, like accent lighting, decor accents, window treatments, millwork, and if you will be using existing or new furniture.  This information is valuable during this time.  These details help us to understand your vision, so that we may tailor a design plan just for you.

This consultation does not include making actual selections because sourcing takes time to develop.  This is a process (called a Design Plan) that happens after we are hired to do the job. Every client is different, so our design plans are tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

During this consultation, we will discuss your budget.  Often clients are not sure what they should budget for design projects.  We will help you determine how much you will need to complete the project according to your desires.  We will also discuss a loose timeframe for the project’s completion that can be adjusted later if we are contracted to do the job.

We will talk about the tradesmen that are needed and some of the challenges that we may incur during the construction process.  Challenges come in all shapes and sizes, everything from delays to unexpected damages.  You never know what’s behind the walls or under the floors.  

The in-home design consultation can be a bit overwhelming. BUT it’s a valued step in the design process for both the designer and the client.  The exchange of ideas and information is needed to begin and help the design process run as smoothly as possible.   

We are experts in our field and are always appreciative of our potential clients giving us the opportunity to talk with them about the design changes they want to make.  We want you to understand the design process and all that goes into bringing your vision to life.

If you are thinking about starting a design project, feel free to book a complimentary 20-minute discovery call with us.