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How to Find an Interior Designer

by | Feb 15, 2024 | Interior Design Tips, Modern Interior Design Ideas

You look around and realize you want to breathe new life into your home – it’s time. Will an interior designer in Phoenix, AZ, understand your open-concept kitchen dreams, though? Will they recoil from the idea of a hanging egg chair? Fret not; design dilettantes. We’ve compiled a guide on how to find a local interior designer in Phoenix that you can trust with your next project.

Why is interior design important? Your home is where you spend the most time (even if lots of this time is sleeping). You want your house to feel like a home – this is your sanctuary from the world. A local designer can bring your ideas to life and ensure your happiness for years to come.

    Step 1: Understanding Your Needs

    Do some homework before you start contacting designers. A little self-reflection can go a long way. Assess the scope of your project. Is it a complete home renovation or a simple room “refresh”? Take inventory of your design tastes and preferences. Are you a mid-century modern maven, or do you aspire to the cozy excess of maximalism?

    Pro Tip: Pinterest and home decor magazines can help you compile a visual wishlist and hone in on your unique style.

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    Step 2: Researching Potential Designers

    You know what you want now, so you can confidently cast your net. Start by contacting local designers like us! Next, ask friends, family, or that second cousin twice removed (who’s constantly redecorating) for referrals. And, of course, pore over designer portfolios to see if their aesthetic aligns with your vision. A simple search through our portfolio will yield results.

    Pro Tip: Think of this process like speed-dating, but instead of swiping right, you’re clicking through our portfolio.

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    Step 3: Interviewing Prospective Designers

    Treat the first meeting with your potential designer as a two-way interview. You’ve got questions; they’ve got portfolios. It’s all laid out on the table (literally). Ask lots of questions, and be open to letting your designer guide you through the process; they have been through this numerous times and should be willing to provide you with all the information you need to make an educated decision.

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    Step 4: Checking Credentials and Reviews

    Okay, so your Pinterest boards are booming with ideas, and one (or three) designers have aced the interview process. It’s verification time. Check for certifications and experience in similar projects, and, most crucially, scope out those online testimonials and Google Reviews.

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    Step 5: Making the Final Decision

    Budgets have been barred, creative synergy is humming, and reviews have sung their praises. But now the ultimate decision rests on your shoulders. Go with your gut. Sure, the designer might look great on paper, but can you see yourself discussing fabric swatches with this person for the next six months?

    Heart Over Head: Just like love, sometimes you have to go with the one that tugs at your heartstrings. We’re not saying finding the right one will be easy. But it’s worth the effort, the research, and – dare we say it – the heartache. This person will help you weave your personality into your living spaces, and that’s not a job to be underappreciated. Let’s tackle this quest for home harmony and come out the other side with a sanctuary that genuinely reflects you. Follow this guide on how to find an interior designer and get the home you deserve!

    Discover More: The Process That Earned Us TOP Modern Interior Designer

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I find a good interior designer in Scottsdale?

    Start with referrals from people who have completed projects similar to yours. Then look for a portfolio that matches your scale and finish level, transparent fee structures, professional affiliations such as ASID or IDS, and for any project involving construction, an active Arizona ROC general contractor license. Always speak with at least two references from completed projects before signing.

    What credentials should an interior designer in Arizona have?

    Look for a degree in interior design from an accredited program and membership in ASID or IDS. The title interior designer is not regulated in Arizona, so credentials require active verification. For any project involving construction, your designer should either hold an active Arizona ROC general contractor license or work under a firm that does.

    How much does it cost to hire an interior designer in Scottsdale?

    Design fees for luxury interior design in Scottsdale typically range from $15,000 to $75,000 or more depending on project scope and whether construction management is included. This is separate from furnishings and construction costs. Total project investment for a whole-home renovation typically runs $400,000 to over $1 million in this market.

    What is the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator?

    An interior designer has formal training in space planning, finish specification, and project management, and may hold a contractor license for construction oversight. An interior decorator focuses on furnishings and surface-level styling without structural or construction scope. For any project involving renovation or construction, you need a designer, not a decorator.

    About Living with Lolo

    Living with Lolo is a Scottsdale, Arizona-based luxury interior design and construction firm. The company specializes in full-service interior design, design-build remodeling, and construction-led renovations for high-end residential homes in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Phoenix. Living with Lolo manages both interior design and licensed general contracting under one roof, guiding projects from concept through construction and white-glove installation.