Should you hire an interior designer?

Many Aussies tend to be sceptical about paying someone to help design the interior of their homes. Maybe it harks back to the days when only the very wealthy had decorators and architects; it could also be that there are plenty of design apps available online – and what could go wrong with that!

These days however, with so many finishes and styles to choose from, an interior designer can ‘pull together’ all the disparate elements you like or want, to help you make better choices - without necessarily making those choices for you.

Using a designer can also save money when refurbishing or renovating your home. Aside from helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring everything happens to schedule, and within budget, there are often savings to be made by allowing your designer to negotiate the purchase of premium cost items. Interior designers often purchase many household items either ‘at cost’ or with a significant trade discount. These can represent real savings and allow you to complete your project within a set budget, but with the added benefit of a knowledgeable second opinion.

For most people, renovation and decorating is an expression of themselves. Hiring a designer shouldn’t be about buying a particular designers’ signature style, but about having professional help to create your own style.