What It’s Really Like to Work with an Interior Designer (Process, Benefits & Expert Tips)
Hiring an interior designer can feel like a big step. Many homeowners imagine the process as stressful or expensive — but in reality, working with a professional designer is one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences you can have. A skilled interior designer is your creative partner — someone who helps you craft a home that not only looks beautiful but also functions perfectly for your lifestyle. From initial concepts to the final reveal, they handle the details, streamline the process, and turn your dream home into reality.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work with an interior designer, this guide will walk you through the process, highlight the benefits, and show you how a professional can simplify your life while elevating your space.
Benefits of Hiring an Interior Designer
1. Less Stress, More Clarity
A designer develops the plan, manages timelines, coordinates with contractors, and ensures every decision aligns with your vision. You don’t have to juggle paint samples, furniture orders, and construction schedules — your designer does it all.
Think of them as your project manager, creative director, and stress-reliever in one.
2. Save Money (and Avoid Costly Mistakes)
It might sound counterintuitive, but hiring an interior designer can actually save you money. Designers help you avoid expensive errors like choosing the wrong paint color, purchasing furniture that doesn’t fit, or mixing finishes that clash. They also have access to trusted contractors and exclusive trade discounts, stretching your budget further while ensuring every dollar goes toward quality and longevity.
3. Save Time
Designers take the guesswork — and the Google searches — out of the process. From sourcing the right products to managing deliveries and installations, they handle logistics so you can focus on your daily life. They also anticipate challenges before they happen and know how to pivot quickly if timelines or product availability change.
4. Professional Expertise
A seasoned interior designer brings years of education and hands-on experience. They see details others miss — how lighting affects color, how space planning influences flow, and how materials perform over time. Their industry knowledge ensures your project is done right the first time. Designers also stay current with the latest trends, sustainability practices, and local building codes, providing peace of mind from start to finish.
5. The WOW Factor
When the work is done, you’ll walk into a space that feels effortlessly pulled together. Every texture, tone, and piece has purpose. Designers create that “WOW” moment — where everything just clicks and your home feels polished, comfortable, and uniquely yours.
What to Expect When Working with an Interior Designer
1. The Consultation
It all begins with a conversation. During your initial interior design consultation, your designer will discuss your goals, budget, and timeline. They’ll ask how you live in your space — whether you work from home, entertain often, or need a family-friendly layout. This stage helps the designer understand your lifestyle so they can design with your needs in mind.
2. The Design Plan
After the consultation, your designer creates a detailed design plan, including mood boards, floor plans, and curated product selections. You’ll review and refine the design together — it’s a collaborative process where your feedback matters. For Comprehensive Design or E-Design clients, 3D renderings may be provided so you can visualize your space before anything is ordered.
3. Implementation and Project Management
Once you approve the plan, your designer gets to work. They’ll order furniture, coordinate deliveries, and manage contractors or tradespeople. Expect consistent updates and clear communication throughout. Your designer tracks progress and ensures each step aligns with the approved vision. When construction or installation wraps up, the final styling phase begins — hanging art, placing decor, and adding those finishing touches that make your home feel complete.
4. The Final Reveal
This is everyone’s favorite part! You’ll step into your finished space and finally see your vision come to life. Colors blend seamlessly, textures add warmth, and functionality feels effortless.
It’s the moment where you truly say, “This is home.”
Communication & Collaboration
The most successful design projects are built on a foundation of open communication, mutual trust, and collaboration.
When you work with an interior designer, honesty and transparency are key. Sharing your needs, timeline, and budget from the start allows your designer to make the best recommendations for your lifestyle and priorities. The more we understand how you live — whether you work from home, host guests often, or just want a peaceful retreat — the more personalized your design becomes. Design is a conversation, not a one-way process. We encourage our clients to share inspiration — Pinterest boards, favorite colors, or photos of spaces that speak to them. These small insights help us interpret your style and translate it into a cohesive, beautiful, and functional design.
At Simply Practical, we believe great design should feel approachable and enjoyable. From our first consultation to your final reveal, we keep you informed every step of the way. You’ll always know what’s happening next, and we welcome feedback throughout the process. We listen, we adapt, and we collaborate closely to ensure your space feels authentically you. But our communication doesn’t stop when the project wraps up. Even after your design is complete, we offer a 90-day window for our clients to ask follow-up questions, request additional guidance, or select finishing touches that may have been missed during the design process.
For example, one of our recent E-Design clients realized after setting up her space that the corner of her living room felt a bit dark. She reached out, and together we found a beautiful lamp that complemented her design perfectly — a simple addition that completely changed the mood of the room. This kind of ongoing support ensures your design continues to evolve and function beautifully long after installation. At Simply Practical, our goal isn’t just to design a space you love — it’s to help you live beautifully in it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Working with an Interior Designer
1. What does an interior designer actually do?
An interior designer does much more than decorate. They plan your space, coordinate materials and furnishings, manage contractors, and ensure every detail supports your vision and functionality.
2. How much does it cost to hire an interior designer?
Pricing varies depending on the scope of work, materials, and services needed. At Simply Practical, we offer two flexible packages so you can choose what best fits your goals and budget:
Comprehensive Design – Starting at $1,400 per room, includes your in-depth design consultation, complete design plan with revisions, and hands-on setup and delivery. Perfect for clients who want a full-service experience from concept to completion.
E-Design – Starting at $750 per room, is ideal for clients outside our service area or those who prefer a more DIY approach. Includes your design consultation, custom design with revisions, and a digital design plan with curated product links so you can implement at your own pace.
Both options are designed to simplify the process and ensure your home reflects your style, needs, and lifestyle.
3. Is hiring a designer really worth it?
Absolutely. A professional designer saves you time, money, and stress — while helping you avoid costly mistakes. You’ll gain access to expert advice, trusted vendors, and a space that looks and functions beautifully.
4. What is the process of working with an interior designer?
We start with a consultation, create a customized plan, manage sourcing and installation, and end with your finished space — perfectly styled and ready to enjoy.
5. Can I still be involved in the process?
Yes! Collaboration is key. We love when clients share feedback, ideas, and inspiration throughout the project.
6. Do you offer virtual design services?
Yes — our E-Design option lets you enjoy professional design from anywhere. You’ll receive mood boards, layouts, and product links to bring your vision to life on your timeline.
7. What happens after the design is complete?
We offer a 90-day follow-up window for any questions, finishing touches, or updates. Recently, one of our E-Design clients reached out after her project wrapped to add a lamp in her living room corner — a simple change that completed her space perfectly.
Let Your Home Tell Your Story
Every project tells a story — and yours deserves to be one you love coming home to. When you work with an interior designer, you’re not just getting a design plan — you’re gaining a partner who listens, guides, and helps you see your space in a whole new way.
At Simply Practical, we’re here to bring that story to life with creativity, communication, and care. Let’s start your next chapter together.
Ready to get started? Schedule a call with us today and let’s begin planning your project.
Not quite ready? Join the Simply Practical Insiders List to get early access to design resources, exclusive discounts on E-Design packages, and behind-the-scenes looks at client transformations.
Become part of a growing community of homeowners, renters, and vacation rental owners who are designing smarter, saving money, and creating spaces they truly love.
Until next time, happy designing!
