We thought it would be useful to dig deeper into interior designer consultations. If you want to read our first piece on this topic, click here. It is a topic that I find interesting. You, like me, might find the idea of hiring an interior designer laughable, not because you don't want one but because the cost is unimaginable. Nonetheless, the idea of revamping your home without any expertise or assistance is intimidating, often leading to costly errors that strip away the joy from the project. We've assembled a team of experts to assist you in navigating this journey. Whether you're contemplating a room makeover or are on the cusp of moving into a new space, these aficionados of style are here to guide you.
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
I work predominantly with period homeowners. I don’t focus on any specific style, but rather on my clients’ individual personalities. I design rooms to be comfortable and relaxing; how the space makes you feel is important. For me, it’s all about marrying period details with pattern, colour and up-to-date touches while always being sympathetic to the building’s history. My philosophy is that your home should reflect both who you are and the things you love.
If I have to describe my style, it would be a sort of updated English country house style rich in colour and texture. I love adding colour to a room, either in a bold way or simply a pop of colour to elevate the scheme. Period homes need both antique and contemporary furniture, it’s important to mix pieces from different eras. I’ll always look at the architectural features of the room first, then put together an eclectic mix of materials, colour, pattern and texture in such a way that it sits together comfortably and works within the space.
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
My in-person consultation can be customised to suit the client's needs and a 2 hour meeting is normally enough time to cover one room in detail or, just briefly discussing issues in separate spaces around the house. Before
the meeting, I will normally ask for some background information and images to help me understand what he or she needs. Pinterest boards are great for this, or I might also ask that they send me their favourite Instagram interior accounts. Floorplans, either estate agent's plans or just a rough sketch will do - this will give me an idea of the space. Following the consultation, the client will receive a summary containing all the points covered during our session. The digital report will also provide further suggestions and ideas to refer back to, and any fabric samples will be sent by post.
What is the price and length of your consultation?
This in-person consultation is offered to clients within 40 miles from the studio at a price of £595, but it can also be tailored as a remote consultation for those not close to the studio.
@louisebooyensinteriors / www.louisebooyens.com
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
Our studio ethos is a combination of three things: firstly, good quality, well-crafted designs that create a long-lasting impact; then the client’s own way of living and personal preferences; and thirdly, working wherever possible with local tradespeople and independent makers and artisans. We specialise in blending together contemporary and traditional elements from across multiple disciplines, to create interest and depth in our schemes. We tend to keep the envelope of a room neutral whilst considering the negative space within, then layering mixed provenance furniture and furnishings. We are about creating atmosphere and timeless aesthetics, whilst our clients remain at the heart of what we do.
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
This stage is all about getting to know our clients and scratching the surface of how they live, what they like (and don't like!) and what their movements are. We do quite an in depth discovery before our consultation free of charge, whereby the client is sent a questionnaire to help us understand a little more around the specific detail, along with ideas on budget, timeframe, and the goals the client would like to achieve. We then come to the site to meet, and talk through the initial ideas. This is where we can give some idea on direction regarding layout, internal finishes and early concept ideas to give our client a good sense of what we would be looking to do.
What is the price and length of your consultation?
We do not charge for our initial consultation, which typically lasts 1 hour.
@crittallinteriors / www.crittallinteriors.com
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
With a modern take on the traditional country house style, our aesthetic is fresh and exciting. We like to create elegant, comfortable and enjoyable spaces that sympathetically reflect the owners and their surroundings.
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
Our Virtual Consultations are extremely popular and can be arranged by using any online communications platform of your choice. These discussions are perfect for those who have any decorating dilemmas as we can advise and steer you in the right direction, providing our clients with fresh ideas and inspiration. This could be anything from deciding the colour of a sofa, lighting options or simply talking through suitable paint choices. Whatever the dilemma, however small, we are here to help!
What is the price and length of your consultation?
Our Virtual Consultations are priced at £100 for 30 minutes.
@claireordersinteriors / www.claireorders.co.uk
(Image: Sitting Room - Claire Naylor)
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
We want to say “understated luxury” and “relaxed elegance” and that we produce “inviting and timeless interiors” with a European twist. We care for the architecture of the property and its context and we look for natural finishes and textures in our projects. We are always searching for new suppliers, artists, and craftsmen to collaborate with, and we love mixing vintage finds with made-to-order and off-the-shelf pieces. All the layers are important to us as they all have their role in the space; from space planning to hard finishes, passing through schemes, and finishing with artwork and dressing.
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
They will have enough tools to implement themselves and redesign a room; and make it sing. A room where they will love to spend time in by themselves or with their loved ones. These tools could be a moodboard, 2D drawings, sourced items or a scheme. We also can work with existing elements of the rooms that the clients will like to retain or upcycled.
What is the price and length of your consultation?
We have got different packages to suit different needs, as not every project and client are the same. As in general, we offer one- or two-hour consultation or a design package for one room only.
Studio Beleta Flair, starts at £175
Studio Beleta Capsule, starts at £400
@studiobeleta / www.studiobeleta.com
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
My style could be described as a mish mash of zen interiors, but with unique antiques, fun patterned fabrics, and vibrant artwork. My design nods to my Asian background (in a crafted, simple and functional approach). It is about a balance of creating a calming but captivating environment.
I specialise in curating spaces with vintage objects that bring nostalgia as well accessories from modern craftspeople, to add layers to a home.
For instance I would happily pair my grandfather's antique Chinese-mother of pearl table with a modernist Italian chair in a fun modern fabric.
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
If it is a new project enquiry, then we would dicuss the scope but also I would chat about their daily life and use /hopes for the space, getting to know them and their background, as I think that is such an important part of design. Bringing their memories with them in their new spaces, but in a fresh and exciting way.
Favourite spaces and places to visit and exploring why they are drawn to such spaces, strong feelings for and against certain colours... the list goes on!
What is the price and length of your consultation?
An initial consultation would typically be on video and usually lasts up to an hour. This would not be charged for new project queries, but if it was a more focused discussion on a particular space then please contact us directly for our hourly rate as it is subject to change.
@studio__shan / www.studioshan.co.uk
(Images: Alicia Waite)
Our consultations are with an external Interior designer Grace. Answers for you below:
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
We specialise in textiles, though Grace also has incredible problem solving skills and is very good at creating good looking storage. I’d say our overall aesthetic is traditional, though we’re based in East London (obviously!) so there’s a certain bohemian edge.
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
Our consultations are aimed at those self managing projects, who require some input from a professional, some reassurance or a hand to hold. We take a brief before hand and for the best outcome, clients will have a particular focus or problem to solve. She is able to help with everything from room layouts, to cabinetry and joinery to construction advice and scheduling.
What is the price and length of your consultation?
Our consultations are priced at £400, and include a 10% discount against ELC products. They last 90 minutes, with Grace preparing from a brief beforehand.
@eastlondoncloth / www.eastlondoncloth.co.uk
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
Rather than a particular aesthetic, Nicola’s work is noted for her clever use of space, soulful combinations of colour, craftsmanship and attention to detail. It resonates with and reflects her clients’ deeper stories, whilst drawing on the history of the building itself. “I want to give people a sense of belonging. A home that fits not only who they are but who they want to be.”
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
A chance to show your space, ask questions and get expert advice. There is no set structure for how you utilise your time; consultations are meant to be collaborative and tailored to your needs and taste.
What is the price and length of your consultation?
We offer a variety of price and length options to suit all budgets and time-frames. Please visit our website to find out more.
@nicolahardingandco / www.nicolaharding.com
(Images: Paul Massey)
How would you describe your style? E.g., what do you specialise in, and what sort of aesthetic?
My style is to evoke ease, luxury, comfort and functionality into my clients projects through curated design. I try to create spaces that are full of personality, impactful and have liveable design. Each project is different in so many ways, but I try to evolve with each one to reflect the look, feel and personality of the spaces and people I encounter. I love to inject colour, hard materials and patterns, but this can also be applied in subtle and transitional ways. My design practice is rooted in the belief that homes should be comfortable and livable, which I think is my area of expertise.
What should a client expect when booking a consultation with you?
Whether the project is a full gut renovation or a few rooms in need of a refresh, my consultation usually guides the client in creating a fully realised space that will be functional and used. Depending on what is required, I like to understand the likes and dislikes of the client and how they want to use the space and how they use other areas in the house also. I then help with a design pack which narrows down the aesthetic and ensures I am efficient with my time. It is always good to look at a few images together of the look and feel desired for the space and discuss this and then go through any initial floor layouts to see how best to utilise the space.
I can help with furniture and home decor selection and placement, floor layouts, paint and wall treatments, fixtures, finishes and trims, drapes and window treatments, exterior design, cabinetry and built-in joinery, store and brands to consider.... the list goes on!
What is the price and length of your consultation?
Length and price - Usually an initial consultation to gather primary information is done over the phone and I don't charge for this. Once we meet on-site and go through our initial designs and the look and feel with the client, it usually is around 1 - 2 hours, and I charge £300 for this unless we have pre-agreed a full-service contract.
@IsabelleLomas / www.isabellelomas.com
Hello Tat! Did you recently post about LED light bulbs, and the best ones to buy? I need guidance. Thank you! Tricia Brock