Finding the right interior design contractors
As a company that works with Architects, Interior Designers and end clients we build our team of contractors through many experiences. Often, we lose a contractor because they move away, changes careers, retires or they are not our fit. Finding a new contractor can be one of the most challenging things we do. It’s a good idea to talk to the contractor you are losing or to other craftspeople on projects; you can get suggestions from them for other contractors or try something new as an approach.
When you interview a contractor, be sure to take the time to see some of his or her work. Often, contractors will show photographs, but these often tell very little. Ask any interior design contractor you are seriously considering where you may share with them a small test drive project where you want to see them in action without dedicating your time and projects. If they are hesitant, think twice about hiring the person.
In every office or practice, the design is led different; contractors sometimes need some time to ask the right questions and familiarise with specific new processes and techniques you use.
In many cases, they might say “We can do it!” because they don’t fully understand what you have in mind. If you are concerned, you should ask to see a similar project or have them prepare a sample for you before you hire them. You don’t want to pay for unqualified contractors to learn on the job, while your clients have high expectations and the deadline is fast approaching.
Designers usually like to be responsible for jobs, and when given the authority, want to be responsible. The benefit in hiring an interior design contractor is to obtain not only the best quality design and 3D visualizations but to have them completed by the best quality-craftspeople.
You may even have to educate many of them in special techniques to get the results you want or find components for them that they have never seen before.
If all else fails, you may have to bring someone from out of town or via the internet.
I was raised with the philosophy that you do something right or you don’t do it at all. Designers need a great deal of training and exposure to understand all the components of the design craft. In many cases, they are not taught on to the business side of the business or utilising contractors. The more you understand about the interior design contracting field, the better designs you will be able to create in less time.
Let me know at george@tallbox.co.uk what is your opinion and how do you deal with your interior design contractors?
Useful link: Architectural & Interior Design Visualization
