We look at our home and recognise that we have challenges bringing the décor together in deciding on colours, what to do with the windows, determining the best use of space, etc. The reality (and the good news) is that there are professionals to help us with any decorating dilemma. They can work with us to solve our problems and to come up with innovative, impactful designs that transform our spaces into the rooms of our dreams. But sometimes when we engage their services the end result is not exactly what we were expecting. Very often, we are the factor that militates against a successful relationship.
Hire a true professional. Do your research. Engage someone reputable and get referrals, if possible. Ensure that your professional has the requisite training and skills. Some professionals are generalists and can assist with many décor challenges. Some generalists have generalised training and experience, for instance, training in interior design or decorating. Some have taken the time to train in multiple specialities such as colour, window treatment design, kitchen design, holiday decorating, etc., and have executed multifaceted projects. Select a professional that best suits your requirements.
Do your homework. Be as clear as possible on the assistance you require and the end result you desire. Search the design books and magazines, the internet and your favourite television design shows for inspiration. Also, have a handle on what you absolutely hate. The key though is to try to determine why you love or dislike the look or item. Begin a scrapbook, virtual or actual, with these photos with notes about what you love or dislike. Discover your decorating style. Explore the colour palettes you prefer. Ensure you get to your personal aesthetic – not fad or what is popular or determined as appropriate by anyone else. If your space is being shared by others take their design style into consideration. A quality design professional will try to determine your aesthetic to improve the quality of their service and ensure your satisfaction.
Establish a budget. Even though you have a bottomless pocket, many of us have some limit in our mind as to what we are willing to spend on an item or service. Even though you never engaged a decorating professional, you should have an idea of your spending limits. Very often this is the most difficult piece of information to get from a client. They seem to think that by declaring a budget the decorator will take advantage and seek to use all the funds available. Or they may be feeling that what they have to spend may not be impressive enough. I tell my clients that they can have unique, beautiful window treatments, for instance, at any budget point. Telling me their limits allows me to focus on the best for them. If your budget is unrealistic, your design professional will let you know and work out a phased approach or complementary solution to your dream.
Be realistic. If you have a modest budget, do not expect to be able to afford high end pieces or services, for instance. If you cannot afford full design services, you may be able to afford a few consulting hours. Coupled with your research and intimate knowledge of your aesthetic, you should have some confident in making some decorating decisions. There really is no decorating emergency. The process takes time. Those quickie decorating projects on TV are an exception. Very often decorating done in haste lacks soul, depth and interest.
Hire a decorating professional to bring your ideas to life, creatively solve problems and transform you space. Ensure you connect to your designer. They should appreciate your style and understand your vision. Trust your decorator. They are trained; they have the skill and the talent. There is a reason that you reached out to them originally. Do not become the biggest stumbling block between you and a lovely decorated space.
Ann Moore-Spencer
Beyond Drapery Limited
Phone: 868-678-3414
Email: beyonddrapery@tstt.net.tt
Website: www.beyonddrapery.com
Blog: www.beyonddrapery.com/blog/
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