Think of an interior designer exactly as you would a doctor or financial planner. They're the experts who can guide you through a maze of decisions, help you avoid costly mistakes and present you with options you're unlikely to find on your own.

HOW DOES A DESIGNER WORK?
An interior designer will assist you in any or all phases of a design project. He or she can help you assess what's important to you and what you want to achieve; recommend floor plans and space-planning solutions; suggest products that would best meet your needs; maintain your budget; and oversee the work of contractors.

WHAT SHOULD I DISCUSS WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
Plan to interview several designers to find a match with both your personality and design needs. Discuss your project, ideas and budget. Don't be afraid to ask questions - the more the better! Ask to review the designer's portfolio, educational background and previous experience. Feel free to request names of former clients as references. Be sure to discuss how the designer will be compensated. If you decide to work together, request a written contract.

WON'T MY ENTIRE DECORATING BUDGET BE SPENT ON THE DESIGNER?
Working with a professional will help you avoid costly mistakes. Your designer will provide valuable information on choices that are best suited to you, your budget and your situation, whether you're a family of five and a dog, empty nesters wishing to downsize and simplify or a new homeowner just getting started. Most people are unable to decorate an entire home at once; designers are very happy to establish long-term relationships with clients and can develop a master plan that will guide your design projects and budget over time.

WITH ALL THE STORES OUT THERE, COULDN'T I DO THIS ON MY OWN?
There are many design options and resources to choose from for any interior design project. Certain aspects can definitely be completed on your own if you desire. However, a designer has the ability to work with specialty showrooms and vendors where out-of-the-ordinary products and services can be found. You'll have access to IMS' 70-plus showrooms and over 1,500 product lines to obtain one-of-a-kind products not available in retail stores and to attain the perfect finish, fabric or other custom features you desire. You'll also benefit from the training and experience of a design professional. He or she has likely designed hundreds of spaces and knows shortcuts to great solutions and how to avoid costly pitfalls and mistakes. A designer considers proportion, color, style, balance, comfort and budget to help you make your home or office exactly what you want.

SO HOW DO I GET STARTED?

Go to our Find a Designer page for a directory of interior designers who office at International Market Square. You'll also find samples of their work. Or, call IMS at 612-338-6250 to schedule a complimentary appointment with our Design Connection Referral Service. You may also want to check our Industry Associations page for connections to other industry sources.

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