There are absolutely no good or bad questions to ask your interior designer! I know you will have many questions before we start your unique project, just as you will as we work towards completion. However, there are some questions that I am frequently asked which I thought it might be helpful to address in one hit here today:
What is the best colour white paint to use?
A super simple answer to this common question is: there is no best colour ‘white. White seems like it should be the easiest colour to decorate with, but the reality is that it is one of the most complex – there are literally hundreds of different shades of white to choose from!
Whites will have either a cool or a warm undertone and it is important to pick a shade of white that works with the light levels of your space and with all of the other colours you have in the room. Cool white shades will have hints of black, blue or green, whereas warm white shades have more brown, red, or yellow undertones.
Warm white will soften your room, while cool whites create a feeling of openness. South-facing rooms will benefit from a warm white paint shade. Brightly lit north-facing rooms will be neutralised thanks to a cool white shade.
This renovation project JMJ Interiors completed recently called for a cool white – even though there was a lot of natural light, to achieve the Scandi aesthetic style we needed the brightness of a cool white shade. I achieved this coolness by painting the kitchen cabinets in Dulux ‘Vivid White’ 2-pac and following through by taking the same Dulux ‘Vivid White’ onto both the walls and ceilings.
I have a builder or architect, why do I need an interior designer?
While builders and architects specialise in designing and constructing the physical structure of a building, interior designers focus on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. Interior designers have expertise in understanding colour schemes, spatial arrangements, furniture placement, lighting, and other elements that contribute to the overall look and feel of a space.
Having an interior designer on board can help you create a cohesive and harmonious design scheme that complements the architecture and construction of your home or building. Interior designers can also help you select finishes, furnishings, and accessories that fit your personal style and budget.
Additionally, interior designers can help ensure that the design of your space meets your practical needs. They can offer advice on maximising storage, improving functionality, and creating spaces that are perfect for relaxation, work, or socialising.
Engaging an interior designer (such as JMJ Interiors which are a ‘full-service’ interior designers) in your project right from the start can help you achieve a well-designed, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space that meets your needs and reflects your personal style.
How long is the design process and how long does it take before install?
Each project is different, but we (JMJ Interiors) generally estimate that it will take around 4-6 weeks to create the design plan and put our presentation together for you. During this time, we will be arranging construction and trade quotes, as well as quotes for custom items and gathering samples.
Once we have your design plan in hand and have your approval on all the finishes and fittings selected we place orders with suppliers. Once orders are placed, most projects take anywhere from six weeks to six months for your renovation, build or construction work to be completed and the install of all furnishings and finishings – but this will vary depending on the size of the project too.
Can you do design something in my style?
Absolutely, yes! Here at JMJ Interiors we firmly believe that design is subjective and our goal is to bring to fruition the spaces you’ve been dreaming about using the design elements that you love while bringing our elevated eye to your overall project. We truly appreciate the uniqueness of all of our clients – we know your exact dream style may not be in our portfolio, but that’s because it’s your unique style and we are looking forward to working with you to achieve that dream! Remember though: sometimes your budget is the guide on just how close we can get to your desired look.
What if you present something I don’t like?
We spend quite a bit of time with you discussing what you like and dislike, how you use your home, and what your individual design style is. In spending much time getting to so all of this about you we are able to create design plans that we are sure you will love. We also know that occasionally there might be an item or two that you’re just not feeling the love for – our design fee is structured so that a couple of re-selections are possible. We are confident that through our JMJ Interiors Signature Design Process, which we have refined through our years of experience and know-how, we’ll create your dream space with little to no re-selections required!
Is an interior designer for me?
Most probably, yes! Do any of the following resonate with you?
- You know your home needs an upgrade but you don’t know where to start.
- You have bought an investment property and want to increase the value of your asset with a makeover and smart design ideas.
- You have never renovated before.
- You don’t have the time or desire to research design ideas, layouts, materials or manage trades to carry out the works.
- You know what style and look you want, but you don’t know how to bring it to life.
- You want to save money on your renovation.
If one of the above, or all of the above ring true for you then yes, an interior designer is for you!
What’s the difference between a decorator, an architect or building designer, and an interior designer?
This is one of the most common questions we get asked. We know that it can sometimes be confusing trying to figure out which specialist will be right for your project and what scope of work you are undertaking. Briefly:
Decorator – helps with styling your room and choosing colours and soft furnishings for a small project. An interior designer creates an entire room design for you.
Architect/Building Designer – is commissioned when you are embarking on an extension, adding another floor, or tearing down and rebuilding. Your interior designer works with your architect or building designer.
Interior designer – works with you to completely transform the interior of your existing home if you are refurbishing or renovating, or if you are planning a new build we ensure that your interior spaces function to enhance your lifestyle and layer your design to create an individual aesthetic.
While decorators create pretty spaces and architects/building designers specialise in designing and constructing the physical structure of a building, it is interior designers that focus on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces.
This one is such a commonly asked question that we have written more on this topic which you’ll find here.
Can’t my builder do what you do?
Unless your builder has a specific interior design qualification (and it’s extremely rare that builders do) then the answer is quite simply “no, your builder cannot do what we do”!
Builders are experts at bringing ideas to life however conceptual and creative thinking is not what they are trained in. Builders are training to build, not design.
How can an interior designer save me money?
Engaging an interior designer can actually save you money in several ways:
Save you from making disastrous and costly mistakes: We can help you make informed decisions on materials, finishes, and furnishings that will not only look great but also last long, thereby avoiding expensive repairs or replacements in the future. Interior designers also love to recycle furniture if it will work into your new design!
Offer special discounts for fittings and furniture: JMJ Interiors have established relationships with suppliers and vendors, which means we can often negotiate better prices on materials and furnishings than if you were to purchase them on your own.
Well- designed spaces: Interior designers have the expertise to optimise your space, maximizing functionality and creating efficient layouts. We want you to avoid costly renovations down the road by making the most of the space you have.
Tailored design plans: We take into account the dimensions and layout of your space, and can help you make the most of it by optimising efficiency and functionality. A tailored design plan also helps you stay within your budget by focusing on the areas of your space that are most important to you.
Increase Home Value: A well-designed interior can increase the value of your home or property. An interior designer can help you choose finishes and materials that will appeal to potential buyers, making your property more attractive and increasing its resale value.
Here at JMJ Interiors we pride ourselves on helping our clients make informed decisions, optimise their spaces, and have interiors that they love to live in!
I’m looking forward to working with you on creating the home of your dreams. When you’re ready to get started simply book a discovery call with call with me and let’s get started!
