What can an interior designer do that I can't do myself?

What exactly does an interior designer do? We know they are involved with fabrics and paint colours, but is there more to what they can offer you? Interior designer and partner of Certain Design, Vanessa Mills talks us through the process.

SKILLS

In the past interior designers did indeed focus mainly on the aesthetics of an interior. However, the profession has moved on substantially and the UK has become one of the top centres for interior design in the world, with first class tuition at its core. A fully trained and experienced interior designer now draws upon many skills to enhance not only the look and feel of an interior space but, critically, the functionality and even safety.

Interior designers are involved in architectural detailing as well as planning layouts of buildings undergoing renovation. They can help with aspects such as determining the location of windows and staircases and taking into account the direction and amount of natural light. Right from the start they are able to identify the positive attributes of an interior and recognise any potential problems, thereby avoiding costly mistakes.

ENHANCEMENT

Their expertise dovetails with that of an architect to create an interior environment that works effortlessly. This is true whether completely remodelling the inside of a property or just an individual room. Detailed drawings, such as scale room plans and furniture layouts, ensure everything fits harmoniously together and show the optimum arrangement and how best a space will flow and function.

When working on large renovations an interior designer will ensure a design meets building requirements, liaising with architects, structural engineers and other specialists. They will also provide lighting and electrical plans and advise on audio/visual integration to enhance the use of rooms at differing times of the day. The latest computer drawing programmes enable them to create high quality and accurate schemes.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

On completion of the initial concept stage an interior designer will begin specifying materials, finishes and furnishings. Their awareness of what products are available and the best way to utilise them, will narrow down the numerous choices that can be so daunting. Even if you have time on your hands and an idea of what you want, it would take many hours of research to source such materials. It is then often impossible to acquire the items you aspire to at a price within your budget. An experienced interior designer has the knowledge and contacts accumulated over time that can save hours of frustrating searching and hassle. Their attention to detail, skill and knowledge of latest trends ensures every consideration is taken into account before a design is put into action.

An interior designer will enhance your living environment, matching your needs and lifestyle, whilst being sensitive to the age, style and structure of your property and its current contents. By helping you plan early in a project, mistakes will be avoided and a creative and innovative design will deliver a bespoke scheme which reaches far beyond soft furnishings and paint choices. As one of your most valuable assets, is not your home worth investing in?

To find out more about what an interior designer can do for you, visit www.certaindesign.co.uk