Remodeling your home or office can breathe new life into a space that is not currently meeting your needs or taste. Not only are these upgrades aesthetically pleasing, but they can also increase the efficiency, functionality and value of a previously under-performing space. As daunting of a task as remodeling seems to be, rest assured that with the right team working with you towards your design goals, it will be a very rewarding and fun process. Below are 5 common misconceptions about your remodel, and the best ways prepare yourself for a successful remodel.
1. MYTH- DIY will save me money.
Truth- While popular TV shows have motivated many to attempt a Do-It-Yourself remodel, the reality is not many people have the skill to complete a project to their intended standard- let alone have the time to coordinate and execute the project. Costly mistakes can be made when ordering and installing materials and navigating design scenarios. When working with an Interior Designer, you avoid these errors with your designer reviewing and overseeing submittals and preventing oversight on your project to conserve important budget dollars.
2. Myth- I can’t afford to hire an Interior Designer.
CWG Architects and Interior Design offers a full range of design services to fit budgets of all sizes. Our Interior Designers will share with you the products that will work in your space, and best fit your budget.
3. Myth- I don’t have time for a remodel.
Truth- With all the decisions that need to be made with a remodel, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and pressed for time. Researching and selecting materials and coordinating with vendors and contractors can be a time consuming process. Interior Designers are there to streamline this process by having the knowledge on materials and limiting their client’s selection to only the products that work for their project and budget. The interior Designer acts as the “central hub” of the project by communicating the client’s needs to the contractors and vendors. In turn, deflecting much of the stress away from the client.
4. Myth- I will have to hire an Architect.
Truth- Depending on the extent of your remodel there may not be a need for Architecture or Engineering services. If it is determined that load barring walls will not be effected during the remodeling process, you are able to work with just the Interior Designer. If your remodel will required an Architect or Engineer, CWG has a team of professionals that can assist in the process.
5. Myth- My design style will not be incorporated in my new space if I work with an Interior Designer.
Truth- A good Interior Designer finds success in identifying and translating their clients design goals. When a client is unclear on their design style, we work together to define their ideas and bring them into a cohesive overall design.
Preparing for a successful remodel:
Find an Interior Designer you feel comfortable with.
It is important you are comfortable communicating with your interior designer. The Interior Designer should be able to define realistic goals for your remodel, a timeline in which the process should follow, and be a connection for you to find the materials you desire for your remodel. With full design services, the Interior Designer will be the one communicating the overall design with contractors and vendors.
Prepare a vision board.
This does not need to be an elaborate undertaking on the client’s part, but it is a crucial element in communicating your design style to your Interior Designer. This can be a simple collection of images, or objects that you relate to and would like to see in your space. The images do not need to be of interiors necessarily. It can be picture from a trip you have been on, something you inherited, or an object you found at a flea market. Having some forethought into how you want the space to look and feel will help your Interior Designer pair you up with the appropriate finishes for your space.
Determine a budget you are comfortable with, and share that with your Interior Designer.
While it seems natural to guard the final number of your budget it can be a hindrance on the design process. Your Designer will use your budget to maximize the functionality and appeal of your space. Not disclosing the budget you are comfortable with can result in the designer needing to reselect materials, leading to wasted design hours.