Interior Design Planning Checklist

Step One:

First figure out what the maximum amount of money you have available for the upcoming project. This step is often overlooked. Once you commit to the budget, you can then make clear decisions concerning what will be done when. Your money will control how much change you will accomplish.

Step Two:

Make a list of what you want done. This sounds simple, but requires some discipline. Pictures help in this process. Select photographs from magazines and catalogs that illustrate design elements, furniture, colors, woodwork, etc. that you like.

Your list must contain priorities. Be realistic. Indicate the things / rooms / projects that are absolute musts. Keep in mind that you should work in some type of order. Don't organize projects such that workmen walk through or past rooms or hallways that were just finished! They could ruin brand new work. Use common sense.

List priorities with each project or room. Keep in mind that it is easy to add an area rug, furniture or window coverings, but hard to change wallpaper or permanent fixtures.

Step Three:

Once you have your budget and wish list(s), it is time to call in a professional. Start this task by asking friends if they have used a pro. Consider visiting designer show houses to see the flavor of designers.

You need to feel comfortable with a professional. Ask them pointed questions about past jobs. Ask for references. See if you can't visit past jobs. At the very least, look through photo albums of their past jobs.

Talk in great detail about the fees your professional will charge. Get all points in writing. Ask the professional for a written proposal regarding their scope of work. Find out just what they will be doing to earn their fee. A true professional will not get defensive at all with this procedure. If they do, you need to find someone else to work with!

Step Four:

Don't go over budget! Need I say more?