If you’re considering hiring an interior designer, it’s useful to understand what services are commonly offered. Whether you need help with a full renovation or just want to improve the layout of one room, here’s a practical breakdown of what to expect when working with a professional interior designer in the UK.
Image above by Kerri, interior designer in London. See her full profile and shortlist her for your project here
1. Consultation and Brief
Most interior design projects begin with an initial consultation. This is where the designer gets to know your space, style preferences, goals and — importantly — your budget. This session helps define the brief and ensures both sides are aligned before moving forward.
2. Budget Planning
One of the key benefits of working with a designer is their ability to maximise your budget. From early on, they can:
- Identify areas where investment will make the biggest impact
- Suggest alternatives to reduce costs without compromising the overall vision
- Help you phase the project if necessary
- Access trade-only suppliers and discounts
A good designer will help you avoid costly mistakes by making informed choices from the start.
3. Concept Development
Once the brief is confirmed, your designer will begin developing a design concept. This may include:
- Visual mood boards
- Style guides and sample palettes
- Rough layout ideas
This phase helps you visualise the direction of the project before committing to detailed decisions.
4. Floor Plans and Space Planning
Space planning is essential for a well-functioning interior. Your designer will create scaled floor plans to optimise flow, furniture placement and usage of space. This is particularly useful for awkward layouts or open-plan spaces that need defined zones.
5. Sourcing and Product Specification
Designers can source everything from large furniture to small decorative accessories. This includes:
- Furniture and lighting
- Paint and wallpaper
- Flooring materials
- Window treatments and soft furnishings
- Kitchen and bathroom fixtures
They can also create a full specification schedule with product links or trade contacts, saving you time and stress.
6. Technical Drawings and Details
For more complex projects, you may need technical drawings such as:
- Electrical and lighting layouts
- Joinery and built-in furniture drawings
- Bathroom and kitchen elevations
These documents ensure that contractors can implement the design exactly as intended.
7. 3D Visuals and Presentations
Some designers offer 3D visuals or digital walk-throughs, particularly for clients who struggle to interpret floor plans. These tools make it easier to visualise scale, colour and texture in the space.
8. Project Support and Site Visits
If you’re undertaking renovation work, a designer can act as a liaison between you and your builder or contractor. This may involve:
- Attending site visits to check progress
- Responding to on-site queries
- Ensuring the design is followed accurately
9. Styling and Installation
Once the major work is complete, your designer can help with the finishing touches — arranging furniture, hanging artwork, and dressing the space to create a cohesive and polished result.
Choosing the Right Level of Service
Not all interior designers offer the same level of service. Some may specialise in concept-only design or remote consultations, while others provide full-service packages from start to finish. It’s important to clarify the scope of work early on so that it aligns with your budget and needs.
Further Reading
- What do interior designers do?
- Interior design services: how much do they cost?
- Find the best interior design companies for your house
- Best interior designers for small home projects
Ready to Start?
Hiring an interior designer is an investment in getting your space right the first time. Post your project on Design for Me, and we’ll match you with the right professionals for your style, budget and needs.
Emily
