What You’re Really Hiring a Designer For (Hint: It’s Not Just the Pretty Stuff)
Most people assume they’re hiring an interior designer to help pick out paint colors, furniture, and pretty tile. And yes, that’s part of it, but that’s not actually the reason most of my clients hire me.
In my experience, there are two main reasons people get overwhelmed during a renovation or new build, and both have nothing to do with choosing a backsplash.
There Are Just So. Many. Decisions.
I’m not kidding when I say there are thousands. Cabinet hardware. Grout color. Which walls get tile and which don’t. Where the electrical outlets go. How many sconces in the powder room. It adds up fast—and making every decision alone (without a clear plan) is what leads to decision fatigue, second-guessing, and overwhelm.
You Don’t Know What to Do When. (And That’s Not Your Fault.)
This one might surprise you—but it’s often the #1 reason people bring me onto a project after construction has already started.
There’s a common expectation that your builder will give you a clean list of what you need to select and when. But in most cases, you won’t get a heads up until the day he needs the specs… and by then it’s already crunch time.
I’ve seen it go wrong so many times:
- The builder installs plumbing rough-ins for Brand A, but you pick Brand B too late and have to pay to re-do the rough-ins.
- You think you have a few more weeks to choose your lighting, and then suddenly your builder’s asking for the spec sheets—now.
This Is Where I Come In
When I’m involved from the start, I make sure nothing gets missed. I create what I call a Job Book for the builder—with every tile schedule, paint color, lighting and plumbing spec, finish detail, you name it.
This way, the builder and their subs aren’t left guessing—or worse, calling you mid-day asking which direction you want the shower tile to run.
My process also includes:
- Regular site visits (at all the important moments, like framing, drywall, cabinets, tile, and final walk-through)
- A direct line of communication with the builder so you don’t have to play messenger
- Weekly project update emails so you always know what’s happening and what’s coming up next
- Managing product orders—so things show up on time, and in the right color
I handle the logistics and the timing. You get to stay focused on the vision and the fun decisions—without the panic moments.
What I Tell Every Client Before They Start
Hire a designer before you hire anyone else.
When you hire me first, I can help you find the right architect, the right builder, and build the right plan from the start. That early partnership makes everything smoother.
Also: Don’t live in the house during construction.
Seriously. It’s louder, messier, and more stressful than you think. If it’s more than two rooms, just go stay with family, rent a short-term apartment, or book a long Airbnb. Your mental health will thank you.
In the End—Yes, It Will Look Beautiful.
But you’re not hiring me just to make things pretty.
You’re hiring me so the process feels graceful, too.
If you’re about to renovate or build new, let’s make sure you’re set up for success from day one.
