In a world where apps, guides, and AI simplify complex projects, many choose the DIY route when it comes to home improvement or a new build. This is often true for interior design, where homeowners may take on the challenge themselves instead of hiring an experienced interior designer in Calgary.
While we applaud the learning, effort, and determination it takes to successfully redesign a home, as practiced designers, we think it’s important to shed light on the benefits of hiring an experienced interior designer in Calgary and beyond.
Eye-Opening Takeaways
- Interior design is highly personalized
- The right interior designer will put your vision first
- Hiring an interior designer can actually save you money
- Enjoy a fresh perspective and unique design ideas
- Apps can be fun but sourcing, painting, and decorating are time-consuming
What Is Interior Design?
Before we get into the surprising benefits of why you should hire an interior designer in Calgary (or wherever you’re located), we think it’s a good idea to fully understand what the service includes.
We love this Wikipedia definition of interior design:
“Interior design is the art and science of understanding people’s behavior to create functional spaces, that are aesthetically pleasing, within a building.”
The keywords for us here are “understanding people’s behavior.” We believe that home design is about tailoring spaces to the individual, reflecting their unique wants and needs, and creating spaces that make sense for their lives.
What’s the Difference Between Interior Design & Interior Decorating?
How? The element of functionality. Interior design is highly concerned with making spaces functional for an individual or family’s daily living routines.
Here’s a quick look at the difference between elements for interior design and interior decorating in a kitchen for a family of four who regularly cook, do homework, eat, and read together.
Interior Design
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- Space Planning: Assessing various rooms and spaces for functionality, traffic flow, sightlines and ease of use. Example: Arranging a kitchen layout to accommodate cooking, eating, homework, and reading areas. This may involve designing an island that doubles as a cooking prep area and casual dining spot, or incorporating a nook that can serve as a reading and homework zone.
- Lighting: Designing a lighting plan that supports the varied functions of the kitchen. Example: This can include task lighting over counters for cooking, ambient lighting for general visibility, and maybe accent lighting to highlight architectural features of the space.
- Ventilation: Ensuring good air quality and circulation, which is key in a kitchen for removing cooking smells and heat. Example: The strategic placement and specification of range hoods, vents, and operable windows.
- Ergonomics: Tailoring the heights and depths of countertops, the placement of appliances, and the type of seating to suit the family’s physical needs and enhance comfort during use.
- Materials: Choosing durable and easy-to-clean materials, such as quartz countertops or high-gloss laminate cabinets is practical for a family that uses the kitchen heavily
Interior Decorating
- Colour Scheme: Selecting a colour palette that creates the desired mood or complements the family’s style. Example: Warm neutrals for a cozy, inviting kitchen or bold colours for a vibrant, energetic space.
- Furniture: Choosing furniture that matches the kitchen’s decor while serving the family’s needs. Example: A sturdy, sizeable table for meals and homework, along with comfortable, durable chairs.
- Window Treatments: Picking window treatments that enhance the kitchen’s decor and also provide necessary functions like light control and privacy. Example: Roman shades or café curtains can add a touch of style while being practical.
- Decorative Accessories: Adding decorative elements such as artwork, vases, or unique containers that reflect the family’s personality and style.
- Textiles: Incorporating textiles such as tablecloths, placemats, and cushions on chairs.
Why Should You Hire an Interior Designer?
Both interior designers and interior decorators have important roles to play in creating a home that reflects your needs, wants, and style preferences. While an interior designer also performs roles that an interior decorator does, decorators do not perform the same roles as designers.
So, why should you hire an interior designer? Aside from the wide range of skills they have and tasks they can perform, here are some benefits of hiring an experienced professional interior designer in Calgary.
Expertise & Knowledge
Interior designers have expertise in space planning, color theory, and materials, which allows them to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. On top of that, they understand building codes, regulations, and technical aspects of design that might be overlooked by those without experience.
Access to Resources & Networks
Designers have access to a wide range of resources. This includes furniture, fabrics, and accessories that may not be available to the public. They also have connections with contractors, artisans, and suppliers, which can ensure higher quality work and potentially better pricing.
Cost-Efficient & Time-Saving
While it may seem counterintuitive, hiring an interior designer can actually save you money. Really. They can help you avoid costly mistakes, make design decisions that increase property value, and work within a specified budget while still achieving a high-end look.
As for time, design projects can be complex and time-consuming. An interior designer will manage the project from initial concept to final touches, which can save you time and alleviate the stress of handling multiple contractors and deadlines.
Design Cohesion
Our interior designers are skilled at thinking visually and spatially. This can ensure the overall aesthetic of your home is cohesive and harmonious. This is often a challenge for anyone without experience.
Customization
Interior designers can tailor spaces to your unique tastes and needs, which can be difficult to achieve with store-bought solutions (lighting, decor, furniture, or storage) that may be convenient but don’t perfectly match the specific style, dimensions, or functional needs of your space.
Plus, interior designers focus, not just on the look, but also on the feel of your space, aiming to improve comfort, mood, and functionality.
Hire Experienced Interior Designers in Calgary
If you’re looking for experienced interior designers in Calgary, call Ellergodt Design. With us, you get the peace that comes from hiring an expert, and the confidence your needs and preferences will be at the core of your design.
Email or call us at 403-202-2704 to discuss the unique possibilities for your home.
FAQ
Is hiring an interior designer worth the money?
Experienced interior design services are well worth the cost. Expert planning and execution, enhanced property value, access to trade discounts, tailored solutions, functional improvements, avoiding costly mistakes, expert guidance, and stress reduction are all included in the price of interior design.