5 Reasons you should hire an Interior Designer BEFORE getting a Contractor Bid for your next Remodel!

When planning a home remodel, the instinct is often to jump straight into hiring a contractor. However, there’s a crucial step that many homeowners overlook: consulting with an interior designer before getting any bids. In this post, we’ll explore why this step can save you time, money, and ensure that your remodel meets your vision. We'll also present some data that highlights the benefits of early design involvement.

1. Clarity in Vision and Design An interior designer helps you define your vision and translate it into a cohesive plan. Without this, you might struggle to communicate your ideas clearly to a contractor, leading to misinterpretations and adjustments down the line that could have been avoided. Often the bids that contractors put together are full of "allowances" instead of a more accurate cost estimate of what you are hoping to achieve. 

Example: Imagine wanting a Modern Kitchen but ending up with a Industrial Style because you didn't have a clear design plan before construction began. This can often be the result of a one-at-a-time decision approach of construction planning. A designer ensures your preferences are accurately reflected early so the final outcome is a space you love coming home to all the time. 

2. Accurate Budgeting Designers have the expertise to create detailed plans that account for every aspect of the project, from materials to labor. They work within your budget, helping you prioritize where to invest and where to save.

The above image shows all the areas that can alter your original investment level, causing you to pay more than you planned in your remodel or build. 

3. Comprehensive Planning A contractor’s primary focus is on the construction aspect, while an interior designer considers both form and function. They’ll plan for space flow, lighting, and how all elements—like furniture, colors, and materials—will work together.

4. Avoiding Costly Mistakes A designer’s detailed plans minimize the risk of costly changes mid-project. Without a designer, you might make decisions on the fly that later require expensive alterations.

5. Streamlined Communication A designer acts as a liaison between you and the contractor, ensuring that all instructions are clear and that the contractor fully understands your expectations. This avoids miscommunication and keeps the project running smoothly.

Conclusion: Invest in Design First Hiring an interior designer before bringing in a contractor is a strategic move that sets the foundation for a successful remodel. It ensures that your vision is clear, your budget is respected, and the final result is exactly what you dreamed of. It’s an investment that pays off in both the short and long term, helping you avoid the stress and additional costs of last-minute changes.

Ready to start your remodel the right way? Contact Michelle Martel Interiors today to begin planning your dream space!