Interior Designer Kent: Living Room Redesign

your questions answered

Launching into an interior design project can often feel a little daunting, especially if you’ve never done anything like this before. I will always endeavour to make you feel as comfortable as possible during the process, and I get it, you will likely have many questions…. …below are the answers to the most frequently asked.
What are the benefits of using an interior designer?

There are several benefits of hiring an interior designer; expertise in budgeting, planning, established relationships with suppliers and tradespeople, up-to-date knowledge on trends, are just some of the benefits. But by far the most common reason why someone would use an interior designer is to make the design process as efficient, streamlined and as stress-free as possible. Interior designers are trained to illicit crucial information (during the consultation) which builds the foundation of the design brief. Once this foundation is secure, the rest of the process falls into place, eliminating costly mistakes that might otherwise occur.

How much does an interior designer cost?

The cost of an interior can vary wildly depending on the experience of a designer. It’s important to remember that all are not equal, and experience counts for a lot. But did you know, for the vast majority, the cost is not the only factor that is taken into account? Likeability and trust also play a huge role. Think about it, you’re inviting someone into your personal domain, your own little castle, to talk about making your castle the best it can be. Much better to go through the process with someone you actually like and with whom you feel comfortable!

What is the design process?

The Telephone Call
It all begins with a telephone call. Once we’ve had a chat on the phone, the next stage is the consultation.

The Consultation
This takes place in the property to be re-designed. In the consultation, you’ll tell me your design requirements, and I’ll ask you questions to get as complete a picture of your likes, dislikes, and needs as possible. This consultation will form the basis of the design brief.

The Design Brief
I will collate all the information gleaned from the consultation and will email you a Design Fee Proposal. In that, you can check that all elements discussed have been covered. Once all is agreed and Ruby Red Interiors has been hired, the work begins (for me!)

The Mood Board Presentation
I present the ideas for the scheme to you via mood boards. This is where you get a real feel for how the design is shaping up. During this meeting, we’ll discuss elements you like and those you’d like to change. I will tweak the boards (if needed) and email any changes to you for you to sign off. If you’ve opted for the Design-Only service, I will then email you a Specification Document.

The Specification Document
This contains all the information that pertains to your scheme; where items are from, their cost and their specification. You can then use this document to implement your fabulous new design at your leisure.

How long does the design process take?

The design process length is really dependent upon the scope of work needed, but as a very rough guide, for a design-only service, it could take around 2–3 weeks per room. A Full Interior Design Service (Design and Implementation) will take longer and really does depend on the scope of work involved. For example, will a builder need to be enlisted? Once tradespeople are involved, a lot depends on their availability, so it is difficult to give a timeframe on this service.

Do you get trade discounts?

Yes, trade discounts are available on some products, but it depends on what the item is and whether the supplier offers trade discounts. Furthermore, each supplier has their own trade discount level; there is not a universal discount percentage covering all suppliers.

Do you manage the build?

If you are looking for a Full Interior Design Service (Design and Implementation), this service includes project management. Project management involves finding, briefing and overseeing tradespeople on site.

Do you do different styles?

Yes, I do create different styles. Each client comes to me with a set of requirements specific to them. The functionality, tastes, lifestyles, colour likes and dislikes all feed into the design scheme, making the finished design totally unique.

What happens if I don’t like your design?

By the time the mood board is presented to you, I will have had a pretty good insight into the styles you like and the feel you want. It’s at the mood board stage that we get down to the nitty-gritty, where all elements are discussed and new products / colours sourced (if need be) after the meeting. Rest assured, the finished design will be one that reflects both your tastes and personality.

What is the difference between an architect, interior architect and an interior designer?

In a nutshell, the architect builds the structure. Anything from an extension to your property, to a whole new property from scratch, the architect will design the look and draw the plans.

An interior architect concentrates on the internal structural design, usually remodelling the existing building.

An interior designer creates the schemes within the space, focussing on colour palettes, furniture and finishing touches.

I still have a question

If you have a question that is not covered above, or would like to discuss a project, just get in touch with me, and we can arrange a chat.

Sample Projects

Hotel Chic

Design brief highlight: ‘Sea-inspired’ ‘Sophisticated’ ‘Luxury Hotel-esque’

Quaint Cottage

Design brief highlight: ‘Storage solutions’ ‘Increase natural light’

I believe that every space has a story to tell. It's not just about filling rooms with furniture; it's about crafting captivating narratives that reflect your unique personality and aspirations. In short, I’m here to give your home the ‘look at me, I’m fabulous’ factor!

Karen

01303 246840
07973 489441

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