Starting a design project is exciting—it’s the first step toward creating a space that feels deeply personal and beautifully livable. But before you dive into mood boards and furniture shopping, it’s important to get clear on a few things. Asking the right questions up front will not only help your designer understand your vision, but also ensure the process runs smoothly from start to finish.
Here are five key questions to ask yourself before starting your interior design journey:
1. What is my goal for this space?
Is your priority function, style, or a bit of both? Are you hoping to entertain more, create a family-friendly zone, or finally design a primary suite that feels like a retreat? Getting specific about how you want to use the space—and how you want it to feel—is one of the most helpful ways to guide the design process.
2. What pieces do I want to keep, and what am I open to changing?
Many clients have existing pieces with sentimental or practical value. Knowing what you’d like to keep—whether it’s a sofa, artwork, or wallpaper—gives your designer a clear framework to build around. On the flip side, identifying what you’re ready to let go of opens the door for transformation.
3. What’s my timeline and how flexible is it?
Are you working toward a specific date, like a holiday or move-in? Or are you open to a more flexible schedule that accommodates lead times and contractor availability? Design is a process—and having clarity on timing helps everyone stay aligned and reduces stress along the way.
4. What is my investment range?
Budgeting can feel overwhelming, but setting an overall investment range helps your designer prioritize and source accordingly. A good designer will help you make the most of your budget and offer creative solutions that align with your goals.
5. How involved do I want to be in the process?
Some clients love to be hands-on with decisions, while others prefer to step back and let the designer take the lead. There’s no right or wrong approach—it’s just helpful to know how collaborative you’d like the experience to be so your designer can tailor their process to suit your style.
The Bottom Line
A thoughtful start sets the tone for a successful design collaboration. These questions aren’t about having all the answers—they’re about creating clarity, setting intentions, and opening the conversation with your designer in the best way possible.
✨ Thinking about starting a project? Let’s connect and set up a discovery call—I’d love to help you bring it to life.