Courtney Warren is a Texas-based interior designer whose work has been featured in Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, and Today.com. She is a frequent consultant on Fox 4 TV’s Good Day program in Dallas, was ranked in the top 3 percent of interior designers in the US by Houzz.com, and starred in the Dallas episode of TLC’sFour Houses. She delights in helping overwhelmed clients create beautiful spaces—and will never turn down a warm chocolate chip cookie or Diet Dr Pepper.
What should you really be looking for when you look for an Interior Designer in Dallas, Texas?
Is the main factor how much they charge?
And is hiring an interior designer actually a good investment? What are the benefits? How do you actually choose an interior designer?
I have been working with clients for the past 11 years, and have learned from experience of what can make a project run smoothly.
There may be more to consider that you first realize when shopping for an interior designer, but if you know what you are looking for, it can make it much simpler!
By following these ten tips, you can ensure that your collaboration is smooth, enjoyable, and results in a home that reflects your personality and the unique Texas spirit.
Happy decorating!
Can You Define the Problem?
Before diving into the world of interior design, brainstorm what problem you are solving for.
If you can clearly define the problem, it might be the designer comes up with a solution you have never considered. It happens to my clients all the time.
I often hear “I would have NEVER thought of that!”
Do you know your style, your preferences, and your budget?
If you don’t that is okay.
We can help you.
But the more clear your vision, the more the designer may be able to capture your desires.
Are they Local Talent?
Dallas is a hub of creative geniuses.
Seek out local interior designers who understand the vision you have and who you genuinely like.
They know the local markets, trends, and can infuse your style and a little Texan charm into your space effortlessly.
Then, once you find one you click with, you have full assurance you can pass off the job you have hired them to do.
Have You Prepared for the Upcoming Investment?
Buying new items is going to take funds. Have you considered how much are you willing to spend to create this lovely space? You will need to have the answer before your project takes place.
Before you answer that, plan on everything being twice as expensive and taking twice as long as you think.
But also remember this:
A good designer can work wonders within a budget.
It’s about quality, not just quantity.
A professional will guide you on what is worth spending and what needs to be saved and stretch your dollars to make them count in the most effective ways.
Doing it RIGHT THE FIRST TIME is one of the biggest benefits to hiring a designer.
Can You Consider Letting Go?
Yes, your 3rd dresser in the bedroom was handed down by your family members, but do you really need it?
And more importantly, do you even LIKE it?
Functionality should be at the forefront of your design.
Your space should make your life easier, not cluttered.
If you have too much stuff, this is a good time to purge.
You only want to leave things you love.
An interior designer will help you release the things you don’t need, things that have served their purpose, or things that are out of date.
Can you Communicate like your Design Depends on It?
Are you ready to communicate openly with your designer?
Share your ideas, inspirations, and even concerns?
A good designer values your input and collaboration.
They value knowing what is working, and what isn’t.
They can only improve what they know about- as good as a designer is, she probably isn’t a mind reader…yet.
Be sure you are providing feedback so they can accomplish what your goals are.
Can you Trust the Process?
Designing a home is like slow-cooking a stew.
It takes time for flavors to blend.
Trust your designer’s process.
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a perfect interior.
When you hire a professional in any field, you are giving up control to someone who has more experience in this arena.
That can be tough.
But I have found that the clients that are happier with the outcome are the ones who allow me to do what they hired me to do.
The systems we create are there because it streamlines the process.
My experience has taught me that when someone tries to depart from our normal systems (and I allow for it because I am trying to accommodate them) they frequently end up unhappy and I say to myself “never again!”
We do it this way because it works. And it will work for you.
Are you Ready to Enjoy the Transformation?!
Lastly, relish the transformation.
Watching your space evolve into something straight out of your dreams is magical.
Celebrate each change, each addition, and each moment of progress.
It’s not just a design; it’s your home coming to life.
So there you have it!
With these tips, you’re all set to work with an interior designer in Dallas, Texas, like a pro.
Don’t forget to enjoy seeing your space turn into a masterpiece.
Happy decorating, y’all!