To Tell or Not to Tell?

Do I tell my designer my budget or not? Hmmm. What to do? Many clients have concerns about discussing budgets and on the flip side some designers are scared to ask. What is everyone afraid of? An open and honest conversation about budget I believe speaks to trust.

Once the initial consultation is complete; a designer and potential client have gotten to know one another. Each has an understanding of if they are going to be a good fit and enjoy working together. Let’s face it some projects are stressful and you don’t want to work with a designer you don’t like. Interior Design projects are varied from new construction, to renovating an existing home, to redesigning a kitchen, to refreshing a room. The budgets can be very different for each project and each client; but, the priority is the same. What is the best use of the funds available?

The budget provides a key piece of information that I as the designer use to prioritize where the money is best spent. A designer can allocate the budget according to what is important to you. If executing everything on your wish list needs to happen in phases, that’s okay especially if there is a plan in place. You are making an investment in your home and doing so wisely can save money in the long run. Knowing the budget allows me to decide where the funds are best spent and maximize the resources.

As interior designers we have access to a wide variety of sources and can balance the budget across the execution. I can just as easily recommend a custom $25000 sofa as I can a $2500 sofa; but really, what makes the most sense. I want you to love your space and feel good about your investment when the project is complete. A realistic conversation about budget at the beginning of the process ensures everyone is pleased in the end.