Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1505959
What does an interior designer do? Interior designers are visionaries. Overall, we figure out how to make our clients' homes welcoming and functional. In our jobs, we listen to clients and investigate what they like and don't like about their homes. Then, we make recommendations, put together presentations and renderings, and form plans to help them utilize and enjoy every space. We can be responsible for everything from creating a new layout for a family room and sourcing the furniture and fabrics to designing window treatments and finding the perfect artwork for the space. Interior designers can also be instrumental when remodeling rooms or designing and building a new home. We might be called to pick materials that work well inside the home, assist with an outdoor landscape design, and confirm that the style flows from the outside to the inside. Why should someone work with an interior designer? Interior designers don't only design beautiful, custom spaces for our clients; we also take care of all the details along the way. A full-service design firm takes the pressure off, so our clients can appreciate the process and final result. We do the nitty-gritty, time-consuming tasks, like connecting with contractors, overseeing work, sourcing and researching items, placing and tracking orders, receiving packages, coordinating delivery, and setting everything up on reveal day! What should people look for when hiring an interior designer? Look for an interior designer to "partner" with, not someone who tells you what you like and don't like. Find someone who makes you comfortable. You should feel like they're listening to you and that they understand your style or can help you define it. Interior designers should aim to make your home inviting, attractive, and functional for you, your family, and your guests—not just do what they think is best. How much should you budget for interior design services? On average, interior designer services cost anywhere from $1,500 to $35,000, excluding furniture. Prices vary depending on the designer, space, and location. Some charge by the hour, and others have a flat rate. At my firm, we meet with our clients and create a scope of work to generate a design estimate. Our scope and design estimates will differ based on the client's needs. What are some of the biggest mistakes people make when designing or decorating their house? The most common mistake I see people make is selecting the wrong size of a piece; it could be a sofa that's too big for a room or artwork that's too small for a large wall. Another mistake I see people make is jumping too quickly from one design phase to the next. For example, you don't want to install new flooring, knowing you'll remodel the kitchen and take down a wall in a few months. Then, you'll have to rethink that new floor. Luckily, an interior designer will ensure the right steps are taken in the correct order. What's a simple thing you can do to enhance a space in your home? Never underestimate the power of paint. Whether it's painting a wall, dingy kitchen cabinets, or dated trim work, paint can make a huge impact on a room. Can you predict any upcoming design trends? Grey is almost gone—yay! I'm excited that we're reintroducing bold and bright colors into homes again. Elevated outdoor living areas and millwork are popular now, too. And lighting is getting more attention than ever. The way people thoughtfully and strategically use light and lighting to accentuate their space is constantly evolving. Lighting is becoming art, and I love it. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Kim Pheiffer Ebert FOUNDER & CEO KP DESIGNS GROUP Kim did it all in the beginning, balancing design work with all the admin required to run a business. Now she has created a close-knit group that she can rely on to run the business while she focuses on growing the business and client satisfaction. Her dream design project would be a beach house, steps away from the ocean, infused with pale blues, whites, and a lot of texture. When she's not at work, she loves spending time with family and friends, traveling, enjoying the outdoors, and working in the yard. Visit kpdesignsgroup.com to learn more about Kim and her team's interior design services. COMING HOME MAGAZINE 27