Designers such as Kimball Bonamici, who transformed this bathroom, can do as little or as much as you need them to do.
In 25 states, including Texas, interior designers must be licensed by the state, says Donna Vining, executive director of the Texas Association for Interior Design.
To earn a license, designers must have a two-, or four-year degree in interior design (from a school accredited by the Foundation for Interior Design Education Research) and two years of work experience before taking the National Council for Interior Design Qualification exam. Designers must take eight hours of continuing education and renew their license yearly.
The additional education, which includes health, safety and welfare training, is important for several reasons. Designers are trained to draw and develop specifications, for example, for electrical or plumbing fixtures, furniture and ceiling modifications. They also often create non-load-bearing elements of buildings. It becomes an issue of public safety.
That doesn't mean a decorator isn't able to offer similar services; it might just mean you will need to check the credentials and experience of more than one person. "If your project involves any kind of construction, many decorators have their own team of reliable, skilled subcontractors they can call on," says local decorator and decorative artist Denise Calley.
Now that you have that straight, how do you know when your project is big enough to account for a hired gun? Most decorators and designers say there is no project too small. From accessorizing and color choices to structural renovation and remodeling, a little help can save a lot of time, stress and money.
"Most people need help with drapery," says designer Kimball Bonamici of Bonamici Designs. "Depending on people's budgets, we may only pick paint for them to try and get a cohesive flow going." She says even though paint is considered inexpensive, often clients have trouble seeing what a paint chip will look like in the end. They wind up spending more than was needed. "By seeking professional help, they can cut down on the waste," Bonamici says.
When it came time to renovate the four bathrooms in their West Austin home, Wayne and Mary Louise McDonald knew they needed help. "It's been a pretty challenging exercise," Wayne McDonald says. "Our house is 16 years old. We had carpeted floors in our bathrooms and wanted to make it more modern. I did a lot of research and now the floors in (upscale) homes are tile, or marble."
The type of renovation the McDonalds were facing was obviously more arduous than choosing hand towels that complemented the sink, so they hired designer Amanda Hill of Amanda Hill Designs. "I did a lot of research on her and knew she was qualified. She's the person that took it from a thought to an organized plan," Wayne McDonald says. He explains that in addition to drawing up the specifications for the flooring and fixtures, Hill handled all of the contractors and subcontractors. "(Designers) are the problem solvers. You've got to have someone you have confidence in and you trust," he says.
McDonald seemed most impressed with Hill's ability to merge his tastes and preferences with those of his wife — they don't always agree on colors, he admits with a laugh.
The McDonalds have three bathrooms to go, but so far, it has been a positive experience. "You just can't do it without (a designer)," he says.
That being said, sometimes just reviewing the list of services offered by many decorators and designers can seem daunting, much less knowing when to hire one. Both often offer space planning, furniture and accessory rearrangement, art, antiques and furniture selection, window treatments, faux finishing services, hardware, plumbing, countertop and flooring selection, reupholstery and furniture restoration, referrals and contractor oversight and accessorizing. Most designers also offer remodel and expansion services and preconstruction floor plan modification. Also keep in mind that some decorators and designers specialize, and others do a little bit of everything.
Pricing on services varies, and sometimes quite dramatically. Michelle Snyder, public relations manager for the American Society of Interior Designers, says that interior designers typically charge between $50 and $250 an hour. The figures vary according to the geographic location, experience and the type of project he or she has been asked to design. "To complicate matters further, ASID research shows that although most interior designers charge hourly, others still charge by the project or utilize other pricing formulas," Snyder says.
The rates quoted by Snyder seem consistent with those quoted by other Austin-based decorators and designers. These are averages, of course. Also, there is often a fee for consultation. Some decorators and designers publish rates on their Web sites, but your best bet is to ask.
One of the many benefits of hiring a professional is his or her discount. "Your decorator may be able to purchase merchandise 50 percent, or more, off the retail, then charge you 15 to 25 percent above this discounted price," Calley says. "Paying a decorator by the hour can save you just as much, provided the decorator passes the wholesale savings on to you." This isn't a secret discount reserved only for special clients, so remember to inquire about this when you talk with your decorator or designer.
Once you decide how much, or how little, to have done and whether to go with a decorator or a designer, it is time to begin interviewing. First, take some time to consider your project. This will help answer a few questions during the interview process. For example, determine the use of the space (entertainment room, bedroom, etc. . . .), time frame, budget (budget, budget and did you hear budget?) and the image or style you would like to project (traditional, modern and so on).
Next, personality is key. "There is a designer out there for everybody," says Hill. "Make sure you like the person, feel comfortable and trust them and feel they listen to you." If you aren't "clicking" during the initial interview, go with your intuition and move to your next candidate. The professionals you are interviewing are used to this process and understand when a potential client goes with another person for whatever reason, even personality.
Make sure you inquire about credentials. Education, training, experience and professional affiliations are a good start, but don't be afraid to ask for references, too. "Talking to satisfied clients can help make the decision on which designer is right for you," says designer Marilyn Roberts of The Etagere Interior Design. "A client should look for a designer with expertise in the type of design they need," she says. For example, designing for elderly people or health needs requires specialization and familiarity with codes or requirements. Don't forget to look at your candidate's portfolio.
Once you have completed your research, soul-searching and interview, it's time to hire the decorator or designer. Remember, good communication is essential, so say what's on your mind. Also, a contract, to quote a very famous homemaker and decorating diva, "is a good thing."
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