When most people think about hiring an interior designer, they zero in on aesthetics: wall colours, window treatments, pillow patterns. But that’s just scratching the surface of what a designer can add to a home. These pros go beyond cosmetic concerns to ensure that a space feels harmonious through and through, from its floor plan and architectural envelope to the last nail head, tassel and tuft.

 

What Does an Interior Designer Do?

A designer envisions, plans and outfits spaces in a way that makes them both beautiful and functional. He or she balances aesthetic considerations with structural planning to reflect each client’s lifestyle, set the desired mood, complement the home’s architectural features and ensure that less glamorous details (such as electrical outlets and air vents) fit into the scheme. An interior designer also cultivates relationships with trusted contractors, artisans, vendors and others who execute the design.

You may have a clear vision for your home, but an interior designer can help you bring it to life while making sure it satisfies nitty-gritty considerations such as space planning and functionality. A trained eye and a creative mindset allow for devising solutions that you might never have imagined, and attention to the tiniest details will transform your space into a haven that looks polished and pulled together.

Finally, if you’re on a tight budget, don’t assume that hiring a designer is beyond reach. Many will be happy to arrange a few hours of consulting or will help you find furnishings and decorative accents for an hourly rate or a set fee.