Frequently Asked Questions
Interior design is often mistaken for simply choosing colours, furniture and cushions. In reality, much of the work happens behind the scenes, planning layouts, resolving details, sourcing products, coordinating trades and making hundreds of decisions work together as one considered whole. Here are a few of the questions I’m commonly asked.
Isn’t interior design mainly about making a home look beautiful?
Beauty is certainly part of it, but good interior design is also highly practical. It considers how you move through the space, where things are stored, how rooms connect, where lighting is needed and whether the materials chosen are suitable for everyday life. The aim is to create a home that works beautifully, not simply one that photographs well.
What does an interior designer actually do?
I help shape how your home looks, feels and functions. Depending on the scope, this may include spatial planning, kitchen and bathroom design, lighting, colours, finishes, furniture, window treatments, custom joinery and styling. Just as importantly, I make sure these individual decisions relate to one another, suit the architecture and can actually be carried through into the finished home.
When should I involve an interior designer?
As early as possible! Ideally before plans are finalised or construction begins. Decisions about layouts, lighting, electrical plans, joinery and finishes are often interconnected. Bringing me in early allows us to consider the home as a whole and can prevent expensive changes later.
I already have good taste. Do I still need a designer?
Many of my clients already know what they like. What they need is help refining their ideas, making confident decisions and bringing everything together in a way that feels cohesive. My role isn’t to replace your taste, it’s to elevate it and translate it into a home that feels resolved, considered and distinctly yours.
Do I need to replace everything I already own?
Not at all. I love incorporating pieces that already hold meaning for you, whether that’s a treasured artwork, an inherited piece of furniture or something collected over time. I often mix existing items with new furniture, vintage finds and unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. This creates a home that feels layered, personal and lived in, rather than as though everything has been bought at once, all from the same store.
How involved will I be in the process?
You’ll be involved at the key decision-making stages, but you won’t be left to manage every small detail alone. I’ll narrow down the options, explain my recommendations and guide you through the decisions that matter. This keeps the process collaborative without becoming overwhelming.
Can you work with my architect or builder?
Absolutely. Interior design works best when it is integrated with the architectural and construction process. I can collaborate with your architect, builder, joiner and other suppliers to communicate the design intent, resolve details and help keep decisions consistent across the project.
Can you recommend trades?
Yes. Where appropriate, I can introduce trusted tradespeople and suppliers who understand the level of finish required. These trades operate independently and provide their own quotes, contracts and warranties, but having the right people involved can make an enormous difference to both the process and the finished result.
Are you the project manager?
Interior design and construction project management are not quite the same thing. I manage the design process and can coordinate with builders, trades and suppliers on design-related matters. The builder remains responsible for managing the construction programme, site safety and the performance of their subcontractors unless a separate arrangement has been made.
Why does sourcing and ordering take so much time?
Specifying a product is only the beginning. Measurements, availability, lead times, freight, suitability, quantities, finishes and installation requirements all need to be checked. Procurement also involves placing and tracking orders, communicating with suppliers, resolving delays and checking that the correct items arrive. This behind-the-scenes work is an important part of delivering the design successfully.
Do designers receive trade discounts?
Sometimes. Trade pricing varies considerably between suppliers and is not available on every product. Any purchasing arrangements will be clearly explained before orders are placed, so you understand what is included and how products are being supplied.
Can I purchase the specified items myself?
This depends on the service and will be agreed at the beginning of the project. Where I am responsible for procurement, orders can only come through me. This allows me to confirm the specifications, track deliveries and resolve any problems directly with the supplier.
Can you work within any budget?
I can work thoughtfully with a range of budgets, but the budget does need to be realistic for the scope and expected level of finish. Being open about your investment from the beginning allows me to recommend where to spend, where to simplify and how to get the best overall result.
Why do I need to make decisions so early?
Many products and materials have long lead times, while others must be confirmed before electrical work, plumbing, joinery or construction can progress. Early decisions reduce rushed compromises, avoid delays and give us a much better chance of achieving the intended result.
What happens if I change my mind?
Some changes are a natural part of the design process, which is why each stage includes an opportunity for feedback. Once a design has been approved, significant changes can affect drawings, pricing, orders and timelines. Any additional work required will be discussed with you before it is undertaken.
How long does the design process take?
This depends on the size and complexity of the project. A consultation may take only a few hours, while a renovation or new build can involve many months of design development, documentation, sourcing and coordination. A considered interior takes time, but a clear process makes the experience far more manageable, and ultimately leads to a much better result.