Everything you need to know about finding an Interior Decorator

An interior decorator is concerned with decorating a room using paint, wallpaper, flooring, lighting, furnishings and other surface materials so that the room is attractive and easy to use. They do not make any structural changes to the house but work with the home “as it is”. Interior decoration is a design field and as such, professionals are fully trained and qualified.

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Interior decorators work closely with their clients in order to discover exactly what look or style that the client is hoping to achieve in their home. They have links with suppliers of various materials such as paint, furnishings, flooring etc and can usually find exactly what you are after. This saves you time in sourcing the materials for the home and often they can get the perfect piece at a cheaper price.

Tasks that the interior decorator must perform when completing a project include:

• measuring spaces and seeing the existing area
• advising clients on suitable colour schemes, layout, lighting, furniture, flooring, curtains, paint, wallpaper and the hardware products that are needed
• preparing sketches, designs and cost estimates
• sourcing fittings, furnishings and decorations
• supervising the project and associated tradespeople (e.g. furniture arrangement, painters, electricians)

As well as this, the interior decorator must remain abreast of current trends and new materials.

When choosing your interior decorator, ask to see samples of their previous work so that you can see if their style fits in with the vision that you have. Many interior decorators specialise in particular styles so if you are after a particular look such as “beach”, “oriental” or “Tuscan”, these specialists may be a good choice. However, all interior decorators are able to work with you to create the look you are after. Also ask for references from previous clients and to see their qualifications.

How Much Does an Interior Decorator Cost?

Interior decorators typically charge anywhere from $60 to in excess of $100 per hour, though this can vary widely and will depend on how much input is required from them. Larger projects with bigger budgets may involve the interior decorator choosing all elements - and they will typically quote a flat fee for this service. If you simply want to get some inspiration an interior decorators will typically quote you consultation fee for a couple of hours spent with you in your home. Some also offer personal shopper style experiences, where they accompany you to select furnishings and colour schemes.