Meeting with an interior designer is an exciting step toward transforming your home into a space that’s both functional and beautiful. To make the most of your consultation, a little preparation can go a long way toward ensuring a smooth and productive conversation.

Here’s how to get ready:

1. Gather Inspiration and Ideas

Gather your mood boards that you created in the Define Your Style and Needs lesson and revisit the Lookbook we created during the Clarity Program. Does it still resonate with you and complement the overall design of your home? If not, take the time to update or expand it.

Bring examples of what you like—and what you don’t. Photos from magazines, Pinterest boards, or even snapshots of friends’ homes provide valuable insight into your preferences. Be specific about any colors, materials, or styles you’d like to avoid.

2. Identify Your Goals & List Your Priorities

Compile your goals, needs and priorities from the Define Your Style and Needs lesson. Focus on items essential for permit approvals—like lighting, cabinetry, and kitchen fixtures. Furnishings, decor and even some millwork can be phased in later. Prioritize what’s most important to you and discuss what you’d love to achieve at the end of the project.  

3. Review Your Budget

Share your budget upfront so your designer can recommend options that align with your financial plan. Make sure to differentiate hard costs (e.g., lighting, flooring, fixtures) from soft costs (design fees, installation). By being upfront, you’ll help your designer align the process with your financial goals.

4. Prepare Questions for Your Designer

The consultation is the perfect time to learn about your designer’s process and approach. Asking questions upfront provides clarity on what to expect. (We’ll cover specific questions in the next lesson.)

5. Bring the Plans / Details

If you’re working from plans, bring both architectural and structural documents to your meeting, even if they’re in a reduced size (8.5” x 11”). Your designer will eventually need digital files, including CAD drawings. (We’ll get to that in another lesson…)

If you don’t have plans but need them created, reflect on your current space before the meeting. What’s working, and what’s not? Are there specific areas you want to improve? Revisit the questions we discussed in the Design Program for more clarity. Sharing these insights will give your designer the context they need to shape their recommendations.

6. Be Open to New Ideas

While it’s important to know what you like, remember that your interior designer brings a wealth of experience and expertise. Be open to their suggestions—they may propose ideas or solutions that you hadn’t considered but could love.

7. Understand the Next Steps

Ask your designer about what comes after the consultation. Will they create mood boards, present a design proposal, or draft a timeline? Knowing the process helps you feel confident about what’s ahead.

Your initial consultation is the start of an exciting journey to create a home you’ll love for years to come. By preparing ahead of time, you’ll ensure a productive meeting and set the foundation for a collaborative and inspiring experience.