HONESTY, OPENNESS GET BEST RESULTS FROM PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR DESIGNER

Good design doesn’t need to be expensive, but its does need to be intentional, explained Dasha Hervey of Sea and Pine Interior Design. The Del Mar-based designer recently completed her term as director of membership for the San Diego chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers.

She recommends working with an ASID-certified interior designer because their certification requires that they remain up to date with the latest trends, products and structural standards through continuing education. Many, like Hervey, also have specialized certifications in kitchen and bath design.

Some other key tips from Hervey:

• Working with a knowledgeable designer can save you money, because it can help you avoid costly mistakes.

“You can do it once and do it right,” Hervey said. “We improve lives through good design.”

She works almost exclusively on referrals, which, according to Hervey, is the best way to find an interior designer. Compatibility is key, she explained. Make sure you look at examples of the work of the designers under consideration, whether in person at friends’ homes, or online on their website, on Houzz (if they’re listed) or on Pinterest.

• Be sure you’re honest with the designer, sharing your likes and dislikes, and what’s important to you. Clear communication is critical.

“We’re problem-solvers. What do you love? What do you hate? What do you want to keep and discard?” she added.

• If in doubt about your color preferences, look in your closet.

“Normally I can pull a design from people’s closets, from what they wear,” she said.

• Be honest with your designer about your budget and whether there is any leeway to purchase a special piece. Even if you can’t afford everything you’d like, a good designer can incorporate some items to approximate the “feel” of a more upscale design.

Every designer charges differently for their services, Hervey explained. Some charge by the hour, some by a fixed fee for an estimated project, others charge an hourly fee plus a percentage of the products.

However your designer charges, expect to sign a letter of agreement before beginning any work and expect to pay a professional retainer fee.

• Don’t let yourself feel intimidated, and don’t hesitate to ask your designer “why.”

“If your designer is not listening to you, you may not get the design you want,” she said. “It should always be a collaboration.”