Interiology’s 8 Pro Tips for Design Success
A well thought out design plan can truly transform the home. To get it right, it’s best to consult the experts. Industry leader Mark Haddad, Founder and President & Principal Interior Designer at Interiology Design Co., shares his expertise. From aesthetics and functionality to keeping the budget and timeline in check, these tips will ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
1. Be Open to Alternatives in Design.
When thinking about a space within your home, it’s easy to see what you are used to, but with updated furnishings, colors or overall style – think of swapping your existing sofa for a new sectional. It’s much more difficult to envision your space in a completely new way. As an example, we created a design that moved our client’s laundry to an under-utilized space on their second floor, allowing us to create a huge new mudroom off of their existing kitchen. When we design client spaces, we start with a clean slate and offer three unique experiences. We start with an introductory plan, where things are located more or less where they are today, a midway design that makes some more significant changes, and then an out of the box plan that offers something completely new. By having three distinct options, clients have the flexibility to choose their favorite features of each, and most projects end up with a hybrid plan that integrates elements of all three options. It’s so important for clients to remain open to different design alternatives and not put limitations on the functionality or creativity of the design.
2. Consider Value Versus Cost.
Selecting high quality products is of the utmost importance in any home renovation, because buying less expensive, but often inferior, products ends up costing more money in the end. A perfect example of this is plumbing fixtures. Faucets from a home improvement warehouse cost less, but the interior components are often made of plastic, the finishes scratch or peel easily, and there’s a strong chance you’ll need to replace it within a few years. A faucet we select may cost 4 or 5 times more, however, it has high quality components, is backed by a strong manufacturer’s warranty, and shouldn’t need replacing (until you choose to renovate again!). We always show our clients reputable products at different price points so they can choose which items they want to splurge on, and which they’re happy with at a more modest price.
3. Working with Vetted Vendors = Success.
The internet has opened up new suppliers for almost everything, and the choices are often limitless. However, one of the key benefits of working with a designer is the established relationships we have with manufacturers, suppliers and contractors. We know who will stand behind their products and who won’t, and we handle the details should something arrive damaged or need replacing, often without our clients even knowing.
4. Plan for the Unknown.
Quality is never an accident; it results from intelligent effort and experience. We are a New England based design firm which means we deal primarily with remodeling older homes, some of which can date back to the 1800s. That said, historic homes are often built more soundly than newer construction from the 1970s through mid-1990s. We recommend clients keep a portion of their planned investment set aside for surprises that inevitably appear once walls and floors are opened up, and we work closely with our contractor partners to quickly solve infrastructure problems as they are uncovered. By being both flexible and experienced, we can often design around unknown conditions in ways that make the final design even more spectacular.
5. Design Spaces for Functionality and Beauty.
One thing that sets us apart is that we understand how projects are engineered, as well as how to make them beautiful. We don’t just design a pretty space a contractor then has to figure out how to build. Instead, we work closely with expert craftsmen, and we create designs that integrate engineer- ing and construction details from the start. The end result is that the design you approve is something we know can be built, and that we also know will stand the test of time.
6. Manage a Realistic Timeline and Build in Buffers.
Good things take time and we never rush a project. One of the downsides of TV home shows is that they give a false impression that things happen quickly during a home renovation – how many entirely new kitchens are completed in mere weeks rather than months? We take the time to let designs percolate and take shape. We find this results in a stronger end product, and one the client is confident will achieve their goals. This also gives us plenty of time to customize smaller details and components and find the “just right” features that personalize each design and make it come alive.
7. Recognize the Value of Industry Knowledge and Expertise.
There is a big difference between a decorator and a designer, and we place a high value on continuous learning to ensure our clients receive the absolute best. This is why I along with another team member earned the Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer designation from the National Kitchen and Bath Association. This expertise ensures our designs conform to nationally-recognized industry standards. In addition, we are active in regional and national trade and business organizations that help us stay abreast of new products and techniques as well as developing style trends. We also serve as a resource for other designers. Earlier this year, for example, we delivered an educational presentation on kitchen design during the Voices of the Industry portion of the national Kitchen & Bath Industry Show in Las Vegas, and we’ll be offering this again locally during Boston Design Week.
8. Remember that Working with a Designer is a Two-Way Street.
Working with a designer is not for everyone, and no designer works well with all clients. It’s important to consider why you want to hire a designer and what your goals are. Good designers can help you envision your home differently and consider things you may never have thought of before. Home renovation projects should be fun, and if you don’t feel energized working with your designer, it may be time to find someone new. One of our clients shared that she hired us because she couldn’t imagine spending months with the other firm she interviewed. Ultimately, both parties need to value the relationship
and trust and respect one another.
To learn more, visit www.interiology.com.
