So you’ve decided to embark on a design project and your initial meeting with an interior designer is fast approaching. While you might be prepared to discuss colour palettes and furniture styles, you might be surprised by the range of questions we ask that go beyond just aesthetics.
Your Style
- Show us your inspiration pictures! Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, or even simply photos you’ve saved on your phone – sharing your visual inspiration is a fantastic way to communicate your taste. It helps us understand the colours, textures, and overall aesthetic that draws you in.
- Describe your design style in words. Are you drawn to clean lines and minimalism, or do you crave a warm and inviting cottage feel? Knowing your design vocabulary helps us translate your vision into a cohesive plan.
Your Lifestyle
Where do you do your makeup in the morning? Knowing your routine helps us determine if a dedicated vanity area is needed in your bathroom or bedroom, ensuring you have a designated space to get ready each day.
Coffee connoisseur or tea enthusiast? Do you crave a dedicated coffee station with bench space and easy access to power points, or would a hidden appliance cupboard to keep your coffee machine out of sight be more your style? Perhaps a steaming hot water tap for instant tea is a must-have for your morning routine.
Do you iron daily, weekly, or as little as possible? Ironing habits can influence laundry room design. If you hate ironing, consider ample storage space for wrinkle-resistant clothing or built-in ironing boards.
What are your hobbies? Understanding your hobbies helps us incorporate dedicated storage solutions. Are you an avid golfer who needs tall, open storage for your clubs? Or maybe the ultimate mudroom with cubbies and hooks is a necessity to handle the sports and dance bags of a busy family.
What small appliances do you use on a daily basis? Knowing your go-to appliances like a blender or toaster helps us design a kitchen layout that ensures they’re conveniently located and easily accessible on countertops or tucked away in functional cabinetry.
Do you have children or pets, and how old are they? Designing for children and pets requires extra consideration. We might recommend durable, easy-to-clean materials, built-in toy storage solutions, or designated pet areas.
Do you work from home? If so, a dedicated home office space is crucial. Discussing your work style and needs allows us to create a functional and inspiring workspace.
The Technical Stuff
- Do you have existing house plans or are you starting from scratch? Having existing plans allows us to work within the existing layout, while a new build provides more flexibility for a design that truly reflects your lifestyle.
- Who is your builder (if applicable)? Knowing your builder allows us to establish communication and ensure everyone is working collaboratively towards the same vision.
Don’t Worry, We’re Here to Help!
Don’t feel overwhelmed if you don’t have all the answers to these questions during your initial meeting. Our goal is to guide you through this process and uncover the details that will create your dream home. We’ll ask questions, offer suggestions, and work together to translate your vision into a reality.
By coming prepared to discuss your style, lifestyle, and any existing plans or building partners, you’ll be well on your way to a productive initial meeting. Remember, the more information you share, the better equipped we are to design a space that reflects your unique personality and way of life.
If you’re curious about our interior design services, book a discovery call to chat to one of our designers about our services.