Dear Melissa:
At what point during a project do you recommend working with a designer? Does it have to be from the very beginning, and for the entire project? Couldn’t we just use a retail salesperson, who is free? C.M., Montana
Dear C.:
Naturally if you are undertaking a large, complicated, or costly project, it is a good idea to work with some type of design professional right from the start, as you begin to formulate your ideas. By evaluating your specific taste, budget, and lifestyle, a designer can direct you to the best resources available to meet your specific needs. This will help you avoid costly mistakes. You may or may not need continued assistance, but you can always limit the scope of the project to what your budget can handle.
Unless you are dealing with a very large retailer, I would recommend an independent decorator or designer, rather than in-store help. This has nothing to do with ability; it has to do with options. An independent designer is not limited to the products offered by that one store. Suppose you like a particular chair, but cannot find a fabric in the store that you like. A designer has thousands of fabrics available through showroom accounts. And what if you need carpeting, wallcovering or window treatments to coordinate with the furniture? Again, your choices are unlimited with an independent designer. M.A.K.
