Do I need a designer

5 years ago

New build, builder asking me to choose hardy plank colors and stone color to go with Chesapeake grey brick already picked. My question is I am not a designer nor builder but I am feeling overwhelmed because a lot of decisions are being asked of me I have a vision but not a professional. Do I need to hire a designer. Problem is not really in my budget but I am at a point that my sanity is to just give up! They ask me to make a decision but don’t give me the details to make the decision, I have to read articles on here or Google for instance pick out a light but don’t tell me the way to chose the right light size you have to add the room dimensions. FRUSTRATED. My joy is leaving.

Featured Answer

artemis_ma

5 years ago

last modified: 5 years ago

Gonna note, when I brought my kitchen plans here (KITCHEN FORUM) for feedback, I got some help on the rest of the house as well. Even though I only listened to about 80+ % of the advice (and the GC balked at the amount of under counter drawers instead of cabinets I wanted), this kitchen is so much more functional for it!

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Comments (12)

Patrick A
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
I just went through this and had to select stone, paint, stucco finish, grout texture, roof tiles, pavers, lighting, and garage doors. It's overwhelming. What helped me is finding house pictures illustrating colors that I wanted.

Many retail paint stores (e.g. Dunn Edwards, Sherwin-Williams) have color specialists who can help you for free. Get a stone sample, your home's elevations, and let them help you pull it together.

Have you asked your builder if they've someone who can help you?
HU-187528210
5 years ago
i agree with the above, that it will help your excitement...

but you dont necesarily need someone who will do top to bottom decor, you can hire someone for one or two sessions, and have a list of questions ready, and ask them....

houzz is here for some descisions too!! so many people who love to help....
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ptreckel
5 years ago
Hire a designer. The price that you pay for their expertise will be far less than the cost of the mistakes that you are bound to make (and regret!). I also suggest consulting with a designer because, no matter how much you think you know about design…they will know much more and will have fabulous ideas and suggestions that you wouldn’t even think of! Good designers can help you stay in budget. Good designers can serve as your advocate, when necessary. They will help you prioritize what you buy now and what you can do later. Good designers listen to you and to your concerns. I believe you can’t afford NOT to hire one. Seriously!
Southerngirl Hicks
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks Patrick, yes I did ask but I was told that is what they were for- so why are you asking me was my next question.
chispa
5 years ago
I have made every decision in all my remodel/building projects and would not have it any other way, but not everyone has the desire, ability and/or time to do that.

Where are you building? Someone here might be able to recommend a good local designer that would fit your needs. I have great one to recommend if you live in Los Angeles!
freedomplace1
5 years ago
Designers have to eat, too.
Southerngirl Hicks
Original Author
5 years ago
Chisel I live in North Carolina small town outside of Fayetteville
itsourcasa
5 years ago
Post here! We can help. :) We did a full home remodel inside and out with no designer. It wasn't in the budget but if it is for you go for it, not necessary though IMO.
cpartist
5 years ago
If your skill set is not in design, then yes, hire a designer at least for one or two sessions to help point you in the right direction.
artemis_ma
5 years ago
Check in with a designer, but don't take his or her word as an end-all.

I didn't use one - it's a log house and I doubt many designers have any idea what is best for a log house. Maybe I didn't either, but I am happy with what I did - one or two things I think a true designer would have steered me away from - my lights in the common areas are up too high - but otherwise since I am sort of an iconoclast and don't plan to sell for many years to come...

I'd avoid getting a designer or decorator that comes with their own line of YOU GOTTA USE THIS cabinetry etc. Unless you already know you love items in that line.

This site was of tremendous help when I was putting together my kitchen - I already had a list of HATES from my previous kitchen (I do like to cook), and the one and only LIKE from there.

Yes, towards the end, the process of choices got really really wearing. ("What color grout???") But even with a designer, you should still be choosing, but a designer will help you limit down choices.
new-beginning
5 years ago
many companies offer 'design/color' assistance (see comment above re paint). A largish lighting SHOWROOM, (i.e. not Home Depot or Lowe's) can offer assistance with lighting; a plumbing distributor (Ferguson's, for example) can help with a variety of bath/kitchen items. Yes they want to sell you something, but they also want to help you make a good (for you) decision (so you will recommend them rather than leave bad review).