Medici Design Group . . .

FYI

August 1998 (Updated June 2002)

The method by which interior designers work is as varied as the finished products they produce. They often use combinations of methods depending on the scope of the services required of them.

Initial Consultation - The initial consultation enables an interior designer to evaluate the project, present their portfolio, discuss terms and determine whether the project is a good fit with their capabilities and services, while often making valuable suggestions based on first impressions of the space. This also gives a client time to evaluate the company to determine they capabilities, comfort level and compatibility. Initial consultations are handled in a variety of ways. Interior designers may or may not charge for this service. Much depends on their level of experience, their existing work load, the standard policies of the firm or the distance from their office to the site of the project. Travel time is valuable time, which could be spent servicing other clients.

While many designers offer their initial consultation at no charge, the client may not get the best overview by utilizing this method. The old adage, "You get what you pay for." may apply here. We say this because many professional interior designers do not have time to meet with individuals who do not value their time and expertise. And, for those who do offer their initial consultation for free, many may wait until an agreement is reached before they will share their thoughts completely. Compensating for time and services  allows interior designers to present themselves in an equal forum. And, while some individuals will bid a job, a method typically reserved for commercial work, the majority of residential interior designers do not utilize this method, since so much of what happens is really achieved successfully by having time to fully understand a client, their needs, their wants, their desires and their lifestyle, which can not be fully understood in one meeting or in a bid situation.

Retainers - Often an interior designer will request a retainer fee be paid, in advance, once an agreement has been reached to hire the designer. This fee outlines represents what the designer feels will adequately cover both designer's and their employees' time to plan the project. Retainers are usually applied to the project.

Fee Based (set price) - The design firm reviews the project to establish a complete scope of services. They then submit a bid (set price), typically based on the number of hours, square footage, or various other methods. The fee is paid in increments throughout the life of the project or as items are received and delivered or services are rendered. While this may seem advantageous, it can be extremely harmful if the project is under-estimated. Going with the lowest price on many things only gives you sub-standard services and may, in fact, create many headaches. A rule of thumb often used is to throw out the lowest and the highest bids and then select from rest.

Square Foot Based (set price) - With this method pricing for the project is based on a square footage basis for the spaces under consideration

Fee Based or Square Foot Based methods are difficult for many interior designers to utilize, because they do not relate to the client in any way. One client may require far more services than another and one client may be much more demanding than another, even if the house is on the same street, in the same neighborhood, by the same builder. It is a risk some professionals are willing to take and others are not.

By the Hour - The designer assists you on an hourly as-needed basis, relaying ideas which you are free to implement as you see fit. Fees range from approximately $60-250/hour depending on level of expertise, region and demand for services.

Cost Plus - The designer handles the design process and is paid to implement the purchase of goods for you on a cost-plus basis. These cost-plus arrangements usually include mark-ups on all charges including freight and delivery.

We do not recommend this method for several reasons. Primarily because, although it seems safer, it is misleading. "Costs" vary greatly from firm to firm. Much depends on the volume and purchasing agreements made between the manufacturer and the design firm. Secondly, interior designers are offering more than simply products. Complete interior design services include custom designs, custom finishes, custom fabrication, delivery, freight, installation, liability, etc. And, the level of overhead for these services can vary greatly from one firm to another. Consumers do not expect a retailer to share cost information; rather they work from a retail price and receive discounts based on seasonal sales, volume purchases, etc.

Hourly & Cost Plus - The designer charges by the hour for meetings with the client, time preparing specifications and budgeting, but handles the purchase of goods on a cost-plus basis.

Retail/Commission - In this instance an interior designer often makes their living on a commission basis related to the volume of products sold and most retailers offer specific manufacturers. While this method is common and may seem a safe approach for the consumer, it is not necessarily the best way to hire interior design services. Not all salespersons are created equal and motivations for the sale vary from salesperson to salesperson. Not all products are created equal and you may be limited by what a particular company has to offer. Commissions are figured into the price, whether or not the person is talented, educated, licensed or not. Therefore, should you choose an interior design working in a retail scenario, make sure they are who you think they are in terms of ability. Ask for references and credentials.

Keep in mind, IN ALL CASES, you are paying for any showroom space required to display merchandise so you are able to determine quality, utilities and overhead, a designer's time and experience, the labor and materials to fabricate products, packaging, freight, handling, delivery personnel and equipment, advertising and promotion, and tax.

Furniture is a major investment, one which should last you a minimum of 10 to 20 years, perhaps a lifetime. Perhaps it will even become an antique? Classic proportions accompanied by durable finishes and fabrics will serve you best in the long run for your investment, no matter what style preferences you lean towards. By using the services of an interior designer you receive the benefit of their expertise to help you refine your selections and help you avoid costly mistakes. They guide you towards the best purchase for your investment and help you unify your selections and purchases into a cohesive, well-functioning environment, be it private or public.