Hiring an interior designer is a big decision that will greatly impact the outcome of your home renovation or decorating project. Asking the right questions during the initial designer interviews will help you find the best professional for your needs and style. Here are some key questions you should ask:

• What is your design philosophy and style? Look at their previous work to get a feel for their aesthetic. Make sure it aligns with the look and feel you envision. Ask for examples of how they handle design challenges creatively.
• What services do you provide? Do they offer a full range of interior design services or specialize in certain areas like kitchens, baths or lighting design? Find someone who provides the specific services you’re seeking.
• What is your process like? A thorough designer will want to understand your project vision, lifestyle, taste and budget before making recommendations. Ask how they collaborate with clients and incorporate your input.
• How long have you been in business? Look for an experienced designer with at least 5 years in the field. They will understand how design trends change and be able to stand behind their product recommendations.

• Can I see some of your recent projects? Any reputable designer should be able to provide photos or referrals from recent clients. This gives you a chance to see their work firsthand.
• Do you have a design fee? Get clear on their fee structure. Quality designers will often charge hourly or by-project fees rather than sales commissions so they can provide unbiased recommendations.
• Do you offer discounted rates on products? Many designers get insider trade discounts passed down to clients. This perk alone can save you big on furnishings. Just be sure to ask about hidden markups.
• Who will be my primary point of contact? Understand who you’ll collaborate with day-to-day. Bigger firms may pass you down the chain so ask about direct principal access.
• What’s your availability to start my project? Get a sense of their workload and ability to begin your project when needed. You want to confirm they have the bandwidth to give your job proper focus.

Asking the right questions when interviewing designers like the team at Marshall Erb Design will help you find the best fit for your project. Take time to have in-depth discussions about their experience, aesthetics and approaches before signing a contract.