With many of us now working in our roles in hybrid arrangements, we’re finding ourselves spending more time at home, and that means we’re discovering what works – or not! – in relation to our home’s layout and design.
A home’s interior design can make all the difference when it comes to creating functional and enjoyable spaces for the people who live there, and until recently, engaging an interior designer to help with clever placement and layout of living, studying, and working areas was perceived to be exclusively for the higher end of the market.
However, with the myriad of different fixtures and finishes available, and rapid changes in trends, we’re now seeing more clients opt for the expertise of an interior designer to assist them throughout their home building journey.
The Role
With a custom home building project, the selections required for individual items can run into the hundreds, sometimes making the process feel time consuming and overwhelming for clients. It’s not an easy task, and this is something we believe is best undertaken together with an experienced professional.
Good interior designers take on a dual role, working closely with the client, as well as the architect and builder, so that all parties collaborate on the homes’ design and finishes. Considerations and decisions are made in line with the client’s personal style, as well as what they need and want in their new home.
The Process
One of the first steps in the process is for the interior designer to take a brief from the client, and recommend or assist in the colours, finishes, cabinetry, flooring, and tiling to fit. The interior designer then creates a mood board with physical samples of items, 3D sketches and imagery.
The Budget
When it comes to your building project budget, there are a number of variables to consider.
Depending on the architect you select, they may have an in-house interior designer available to assist in the project selections. One question to ask is whether their interior design fee is included in the initial proposal or comes as an add-on service with an additional cost?
Alternatively, you may want to engage an independent interior designer. You’ll need to have an upfront conversation with your architect to determine how they will collaborate to ensure the process remains smooth and stress-free.
Regarding fees, interior designers can charge an hourly rate or by project. Hourly rates are similar to an architect (from $150 to $250 per hour), and full interior design services sit between 1 – 1.5 per cent of your total building budget.
The Outcome
At Sheridan Building, we find when our clients engage an interior designer to collaborate with us on the design and build of their home, the result delivers the X-Factor in refinement, personality, comfort and consistency. Our clients unanimously agree any additional investment in interior design was money very well spent.
Including an experienced interior designer in your home building project gives you confidence in making important design decisions for your new home. After all, you’re making significant financial and emotional investments, and having the eye of a design professional paired with your builder’s expertise will help to ensure you every aspect of your build right so you can love where you live and enjoy every aspect of your beautiful new home.
If you’re considering engaging an interior designer for your new home, we’d love to talk with you. Contact our friendly Sheridan Building team today to start the conversation.
