Do I DIY or Do I Hire a Designer?

To hire or not to hire? That is the question! How do you know when you should hire a Designer or when you should try to DIY? There’s a number of factors that can go into that decision and it’s important to consider them before starting any home projects. Review our list of factors to help you determine whether you can go at this from a DIY angle or if you’ll need to bring in a Designer. 

The Key Factors that indicate you should hire an Interior Designer:

• Any renovations in your kitchen or bathroom beyond painting or a change in decor should include a designer. When it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, there are many factors from plumbing, layout, flooring and cabinetry. These are not items to fare alone. A designer will provide expertise to the project and ease to you through this process.

• If you are moving walls, windows, doors, stairways for aesthetic value, you need to bring in a designer, unless it includes structural elements, then you’ll want to bring in an architect. All too often, home owners try to make these changes to their home with just the use of their own ideas or that of a contractor. Unfortunately, this tends to create more problems than it solves. Designers not only apply form and style, but they know the nuances of how spaces are used and can be most functional. This is a skill honed by designers through years of education and experience

• Did you know that many designers have access to trade programs? Many products are unique and not available to the public. Access to trade programs also gives designers personal reps from their companies - these relationships ensure best product, best pricing and quality control on your purchases. If you're planning a home project that will require multiple and/or large purchases such as furniture, flooring, fixtures, window treatments, etc, it’s best practice to hire a designer to assist. Your peace of mind will thank you for it!

• Project management and coordination. These will be a part of any decently sized project and require a lot of time, effort and attention to detail. From beginning to end, there are questions, decisions, problem solving, critical thinking, planning that are needed - and delays in these areas can cause major headaches for a homeowner. This is why hiring a designer is essential, this allows for all of those things to be handled swiftly and on your behalf. You get to enjoy the outcome, not wrestle with the logistics of getting it there!

• If you need any type of plans, 3D models, permitting - you’ll need to hire a designer. Experience and expertise in design principles, architectural styles, building codes and regulations, and design software are crucial to producing a project you love and meets safety standards and regulations. 

• Looking to increase the value of your home? Do not DIY. A designer will provide knowledgeable best options for your project goals and budget, while helping you avoid mistakes and cut corners that could potentially drive the value of your home down. 

DIY projects can be fun and a learning experience! If you’re trying to bring in a fresh look for a room, DIY can be a great option if you have the time. But you wouldn’t try to fix your own car if you’re not a mechanic right? If you think hiring a designer is expensive, wait until you have to pay for making costly mistakes without one! Bella Home Interiors has 30 years of experience and expertise designing and guiding clients through their design journeys. Ready to start your next home project? Schedule a consultation here and experience your own journey!