What is an Interior Designer… And How Do I Work With One?
Hear expert advice to understand the role an interior designer plays in your renovation process
In this series, we help you define the different types of professionals you will come across as a new homeowner, whether that’s an architect, interior stylist, or a renovation contractor. In this article, we cover the interior designer.
There are lots of anecdotes from people who have had bad experiences with interior designers or IDs, but there are as many who work so well with their ID, they become repeat clients.
What does an interior designer do?
“The one thing you need to consider before hiring an interior designer, is do you want an interior designer or a project coordinator?” asks Twilhaar.
“Designers want to show their personality and design aesthetics in the project. That is why it is important to know if he/she understands what you want to achieve. Is the designer’s portfolio to your liking and serve as a base to expand on?” he explains.
“The one thing you need to consider before hiring an interior designer, is do you want an interior designer or a project coordinator?” asks Twilhaar.
“Designers want to show their personality and design aesthetics in the project. That is why it is important to know if he/she understands what you want to achieve. Is the designer’s portfolio to your liking and serve as a base to expand on?” he explains.
An ID will design your new space and usually works with a building firm or renovation contractor to complete the project.
As Twilhaar points out, IDs are not project coordinators, although they can assist with managing the project, depending on the scope of work in the contract
The 3 things an architect wishes clients knew
As Twilhaar points out, IDs are not project coordinators, although they can assist with managing the project, depending on the scope of work in the contract
The 3 things an architect wishes clients knew
IDs do need to have some qualification to work in Singapore and should preferably be registered with the Interior Design Confederation Singapore or Society of Interior Designers Singapore, which are the industry associations recognised by the DesignSingapore Council. IDs should be able to read blueprints, be aware of building codes and know about inspection regulations.
Important things to know
“We will source materials specific for the project and design new elements and styles that meet our clients’ needs,” explains Twilhaar.
“This is not a cookie cutter process and will require a bit of time. Most of my clients are locked in three months in advance, and I am normally booked out for six months.
“We will source materials specific for the project and design new elements and styles that meet our clients’ needs,” explains Twilhaar.
“This is not a cookie cutter process and will require a bit of time. Most of my clients are locked in three months in advance, and I am normally booked out for six months.
“The design process will take at least one month and it’s best to select materials and work out details before the project starts.”
With this in mind, start looking for a designer at least six months before you plan to start.
“For my company, we need two to three weeks to work on design and to obtain contractors’ quotes,” he explains.
With this in mind, start looking for a designer at least six months before you plan to start.
“For my company, we need two to three weeks to work on design and to obtain contractors’ quotes,” he explains.
Be aware that sought-after IDs can often pick the projects they want to take on. These tend to be those that will reflect their design personality and enhance their portfolio.
How to choose the right ID for you
In addition to aesthetics, and style, personalities also have to be aligned.
“You are going into a project together that will last a few months, and it’s important that there is mutual respect and understanding,” says Twilhaar.
In addition to aesthetics, and style, personalities also have to be aligned.
“You are going into a project together that will last a few months, and it’s important that there is mutual respect and understanding,” says Twilhaar.
