Have you purchased your ideal property but lacked the design sensibilities to decorate it? Alternatively, you could employ an interior designer or an interior design studio to make your ideal home a reality. Unfortunately, the greatest difficulty in a market populated with creative professionals is selecting a Singapore home designer who will meet your needs.
Be specific.
Before initiating the process, jot down certain factors that could serve as a filter when making a decision. Therefore, initially determine the style, budget, timeline, and location. All of these could be crucial and even interconnected. For example, at a certain point in the work, you wouldn’t want to engage in discussions and discover that the deadlines are too lengthy. Therefore, you should establish these filters before you even begin.
How to locate them.
Your search for the ideal interior designer would necessitate a criterion-based filter. Therefore, search online (websites and social media platforms), speak with friends, family, or acquaintances who have recently appointed an interior designer, or contact design institutions. Architecture and design-focused magazines and blogs are other important sources. Then, list only the items that meet your criteria. Thus, you would have a select few to approach.
Check their history.
Once you have selected a shortlist of designers who meet your requirements, conduct a background check. Know their education (specialisation, institution), projects they have worked on, individuals they have worked with, and, if applicable, their supervisors and their experience.
Check out their resume.
In addition to conducting a background check, evaluating the applicant’s work is equally essential. Know what they specialise in, how adept they are at innovating, and how adept they are at overcoming obstacles. You could also request a site visit of some of their works; who knows, you might want to incorporate something into your home. During this visit, inquire about the client’s working manner, their ability to work within a budget, and their timeliness.
Consider the budget.
Once their working manner and portfolio have won you over, finalise the price. This varies from designer to designer. Discuss your budget, and if the designer is willing to work within it, negotiate which services they can and cannot provide. If the budget is acceptable, they should inform you beforehand of the payment procedure and schedule. Ensure that 20% of your total budget is set aside for wear and tear and miscellaneous expenses.
Share your design sensibilities.
Ensure that you and your designer can effectively collaborate on designs. Share your initial conception of the home and invite their input on what would suit well in your home and any potential obstacles. A good designer is adaptable and attempts to incorporate your sensibilities into their designs, ultimately making your home a reflection of you.
