Interior Design Is Not for Amateurs

Question: My husband and I recently moved into a lovely, 1,800-square-foot home on a hill. We are not millionaires, but we are in need of an interior designer. How do we find one?

L. HENDERSON, Mission Viejo

Answer: Working with an interior designer can be a wonderful experience. However, selecting a designer requires research and planning.

First, assess your needs. Think carefully about what you want to accomplish and establish a reasonable budget. Whether you are planning a huge remodel or simply sprucing up a room or two, the help of a professional designer can save you time and money.

Today’s designers tailor their services according to budget. You need to find the right designer experienced in your particular type of project.

If you haven’t, take the time to make a file of photographs of rooms and furniture that fit the mood and style of furnishings you want in your home: American or Country French, contemporary, traditional, Mediterranean or, perhaps, eclectic.

Armed with your budget and an idea of how you want your dream home to look, you can begin the search for a professional interior designer.

I stress professional interior designer because you want someone who has the education and experience to deal with color, scale, light, space, building codes and technology--concepts that can be difficult for even the most skilled amateur.

You could start your search by calling the Orange County Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers ([949] 643-1549). They can refer you to qualified designers.

You might also make sure that each candidate is certified in California and carries the appellation CID after their name. Also ask for referrals from friends who have had a successful client-designer relationship.

Interview at least three designers. Review their portfolios and check references. Find out if their former projects were completed on time and within budget.

The toughest job you face is making dozens of decisions--colors, fabrics, appliances, lighting, wall and floor coverings--so your designer’s contacts will be invaluable. Remember, many fabrics and furnishing are available just to the trade, and an experienced designer can guide you through the decision-making process and recommend the best workrooms, painters, carpenters and artisans in the area.

He or she will help you prioritize your projects and plan your budget and timeline.

Before you make your final selection, ask yourself if you feel comfortable with this person who will spend time in your home and work on your behalf. Once you have made your decision, put everything in writing. Outline what you expect from the designer and include the fee. Some designers charge by the hour; others have a fixed project fee or charge by the square foot. Be very clear how you want to be billed for services and materials.

At the preliminary presentation, make sure that your designer fully understands the size, scope and budget for the project.

Be a careful consumer and you will enjoy the whole design adventure.

If You Need Help

* Do you have a question about your decor? Send questions to Home Design, The Times Orange County, 1375 Sunflower Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626, or e-mail to ocsocalliv@latimes.com.