5 myths about working with a Designer Debunked - and why you shouldn't hesitate working with one

Over the years of growing my interior design business, I’ve come across a lot of misconceptions about what Designers do and who can benefit from hiring one. Statements like, “That sounds so fun!” or “Designers are so expensive, I could never afford one,” have inspired me to clear up the myths surrounding this profession. In this post, we’ll walk through some of the most common misunderstandings about working with an Interior Designer—and why they might not be true at all!

1. Designers just play with pretty fabrics: While selecting fabrics is part of the job, it’s only a small piece of the puzzle. Choosing the right fabric requires careful consideration of factors like durability, function, and compatibility with the overall design. A Designer assesses how the fabric will hold up over time, its comfort level, and how it complements other elements in the space. Yes, we get to "play" with beautiful options, but this is only after we’ve created a cohesive vision and detailed plan for your home.

2. Designers are only for the wealthy, I could never afford one: This is one of the most disheartening myths because it prevents so many people from seeking the help they need. Designers can work within a wide range of budgets and, more importantly, often help save you money in the long run. From selecting the perfect paint color (avoiding costly mistakes!) to finding furniture that fits your space and lasts for years, Designers bring expertise that helps you get it right the first time. Plus, we have access to resources, vendors, and tradespeople that most homeowners don’t, adding incredible value no matter your budget.

3. Designers won’t carry out my vision: If this has been your experience, you simply haven’t found the right Designer. A great Designer works with you to refine your ideas and bring your vision to life. The process should feel collaborative and start with an in-depth meeting to gather all your thoughts and preferences. From there, a Designer helps ensure your ideas are not only feasible but elevated to their full potential. The result? A space that’s uniquely yours, down to the very last detail, and a process you’ll likely enjoy as much as the final reveal.

4. Why do I need a Designer, I’m a DIYer: DIY is fantastic—I’m a fan myself! However, knowing your limits is crucial. Designers can provide guidance on the best materials for specific applications, point you to products that aren’t readily available to the public, and even connect you with trusted tradespeople to handle complex tasks. Whether you’re looking for advice before starting or need help troubleshooting mid-project, a Designer can help you avoid frustration and costly errors. DIYers and Designers can work together beautifully to bring your vision to life.

5. Designers are uptight and stuffy: Just like any profession, Designers come in all types. Most of the Designers I know are approachable, witty, and genuinely care about making their clients happy. Finding the right Designer isn’t just about their portfolio—it’s about their personality and how well they communicate with you. Look for someone you feel comfortable with, who listens to your needs, and who you can trust to understand both how your home needs to function and how you want it to look.

So, whether your budget is modest, your schedule is tight, or you feel overwhelmed by the decision-making process, hiring a Designer can simplify your project and make it more enjoyable. Designers help ease the burden of coordination, sourcing, and planning, so you can focus on the excitement of seeing your space transformed.

When you’re ready to start your next project, ask friends or neighbors for Designer recommendations and find out what they loved (or didn’t love) about their experience. Don’t just focus on the Designer—also ask about their network of professionals, as a trusted team is just as important as a stunning design.

So yes, I may play with fabric swatches now and then, but that’s just one small part of what a Designer does. Whether it’s a lack of time, a modest budget, or decision-making fatigue, don’t let misconceptions keep you from working with a Designer. Your dream space is closer than you think!