How to Hire a Good Designer
(And actually enjoy the process)
Hiring an interior designer should feel exciting, not intimidating. Done well, it’s a creative partnership that transforms how you live and will make you fall in love with your home. The key is knowing what (and who) to look for.
Start with taste alignment. A good interior designer doesn’t just have talent, they have a point of view. Scroll their portfolio and social feeds and ask yourself: Would I happily live in this and do these rooms talk to me? If the answer is yes more than once, you’re on the right track. Style chemistry matters and is in our book a top priority.
Next, look beyond beautiful images and understand about their process. Great designers are organised creatives. They can explain how they work, how decisions are made, and how ideas become reality. If they talk confidently about timelines, budgets, sourcing, and installation, you’ve found someone who understands that design isn’t just about ideas, it’s about execution.
Image: Fantoush
A strong interior designer is also an expert editor. They listen closely, translate vague instincts (“calm but not boring,” “luxurious but relaxed”) into clear concepts, and gently steer you away from expensive mistakes. You should feel inspired, understood, and slightly challenged — not overwhelmed or ignored.
Don’t underestimate the importance of communication and trust. Interior design is personal. You’ll be discussing how you live, what comforts you, and what drives you mad. Choose someone who communicates clearly, responds thoughtfully, and makes you feel comfortable asking questions. The best results come from honest, collaborative relationships.
Image: Salvesen Graham
Finally, hire a designer who understands the whole picture. The best interiors aren’t just decorative, they’re layered, practical, and built to last. Look for someone who considers lighting, scale, materials, and longevity as carefully as colour and cushions.
A good interior designer doesn’t impose a look. They elevate your space, sharpen your ideas, and create a home that feels effortless, thoughtful, and unmistakably yours. When you find the right one, the process is not just smoother, it’s genuinely exciting and a wonderful journey.
Image: Charlotte Boundy