If you’ve never worked with an interior designer before, it might seem like a daunting process. Will they get my vibe? What if I don’t like it in the end? What am I actually paying money for? Well, don’t worry. It’s actually an easy process if you have all the right things.

Let’s start with the basics. What do interior designers actually do? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “interior designers make indoor spaces functional, safe, and beautiful by determining space requirements and selecting essential and decorative items, such as colors, lighting, and materials. They must be able to draw, read and edit blueprints. They must also be aware of building codes, inspection regulations, and other considerations, such as accessibility standards.” They’re not just going to place furniture in your home with reckless abandon. They’ll take the time to get things to your liking, while making sure that it’s all legal and safe. 

First things first, you’re going to want to find the right fit for you. You’ll want to make sure the designer you’re working with has great communication with you and someone you’ll want to work with. Check out some examples of past work to get a feel for their style and see if you think they’ll be able to get the style you want. 

The earlier you can get an interior designer in on your project, the better. They’ll be able to work with you sooner and can help speed along the process. You’ll want to establish exactly what you want out of this project. Make sure to take notes of what you want and what you don’t want. Get some samples of things you like and write down what you like about them. This will make it easier to tell your designer things if you don’t know how to explain them. Make your expectations realistic. If you have a clear vision of what you want, the interior designer can bring it to life. 

If you’re working in your home that’s already got your things in it, make a list of things you don’t want to part with. If you can let your designer know what you’re wanting in your room, they can design around it and add it to their vision. 

An important thing is to keep your mind open when receiving the designers suggestions. If you don’t like something they pick out, give it a little bit to sink in. Ask them why they decided to pick that item and it might make more sense. But if you really don’t like it, don’t be afraid to say no. 

Working with an interior designer shouldn’t be a stressful task. Make some consultations, get a feel for a person that you think you’ll get along with and connect with, and then start a working relationship with them. Let them do their thing, and you’ll end up with a space that’s totally reinvented and feels more like a home to you. You’ll ask yourself, why didn’t I do this sooner?