As many of us are purposely spending more time at home these days, a rising demand for interior enhancements has hit the market. And with it, comes a natural uncertainty of how to approach a design upgrade when the end goal is to work with a professional. Simply picking out luxurious new bedding or that plush sofa you have been pining after doesn’t always do the job.
But lucky for us, many designers have been working with remote clients for quite a long time—and it’s much more personal and collaborative than most would expect. To get a more rounded out picture, we spoke to Turett Collaborative’s Director of Interior Design Jessica Shaw, who shared some insight on the benefits of working virtually with an interior designer.
5 Benefits of Working with an Interior Designer in a Virtual World
by Jessica Shaw
- See Your Desired Design in 3D Before You Commit
Designers are known for creating floor plans and mood boards, but a virtual world offers the opportunity to find a designer that can go beyond these traditional models. Search for one who is skilled in using 3D design software and can provide you with a virtual walk-thru of your newly desired environment. What was once a costly endeavor, now has become a competitive edge. Not only will you be able to see what your space will look like without having to “imagine” it, but this also allows you to adjust the design without making costly purchasing mistakes.
- Access to an Informed Personal Shopper
While “shopping” has always been part of the job description for a designer, it’s more important now than ever before. If you are not comfortable going to a store, a designer can go for you. They also have access to private furniture lines and advanced knowledge of their products. Your designer can provide honest insights you need to make informed product decisions. Plus, they have access to samples and can send you materials and finishes for you to review without you ever having to leave the comfort of your own home.
- The Mute Button is Your Money & Time-Saving Friend
Being proactive by prepping for your virtual call and utilizing the mute button can not only streamline the design process, but it can save you time and money when dealing with hourly rates. Whether you are the only one involved in the decision-making process or are consulting with others, use the mute button on virtual calls to honestly discuss in real-time what you like and don’t like for a more efficient meeting. Be sure to also ask your designer to send you the floor plans, ideas, and furniture suggestions before your call so you can review them and make more thoughtful decisions.
Insider tip: Since designers are visual people, share your design style, and taste digital by creating a Pinterest board or PPT presentation of images. This will not only save time on the initial design meeting, but it gives your designer a true sense of your taste. Be sure to also virtually introduce the people who live/work in the space and include information they might not otherwise “see” virtually. IE: if your partner is 6ft tall and you are 5 ft tall, that might not come across on camera and can be important when specifying furniture or hanging artwork. Or if your partner or kids are notorious for spilling on the rug every morning, make sure your designer knows to get a rug that’s easy to clean up. An added benefit: you might learn something new about yourself, your partner, or your family member.
- Throw Out Your Calendar & Say Hello to a Scheduling Guru with a Deep Rolodex of Skilled Tradespeople
It is more important now than ever to know who is in your home, when they will be there, and to fully understand the installation, new construction, and renovation process. Does the painter come before the electrician or after? How do you know if the painter is a professional? As COVID-related issues have delayed this process, a skilled designer knows how to manage people and get them in and out in a more timely manner. Plus, since they have connections to and regularly work with professional installers, tradespeople and subcontractors you will get on the schedule faster.
- Gain a Safety Advocate & Enforcer
It can be challenging and uncomfortable to enforce others to wear masks, shoe booties, gloves, and apply social distancing in your home. To take the burden off of yourself, your designer can act as your safety advocate and voice any concerns you might have. This could include implementing cleaning and safety protocols to ensure you are comfortable from start to finish.
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