If you’ve started your search for an interior designer, you’ve likely realized something quickly: there are a lot of talented designers out there and they all seem like a good fit.
So, how do you actually choose?
This is exactly the point where many of our clients find themselves. They’ve had a few conversations, gathered proposals, and yet… they’re unsure how to move forward.
The truth is, choosing an interior designer isn’t just about style. It’s about alignment on vision, process, communication, and trust.
Let’s walk through how to make that decision with clarity.
First, What Is an Interior Designer?
Before you can choose an interior designer, it helps to understand what an interior designer actually does.
An interior designer is not just someone who selects furniture or makes things “look pretty.” A full-service designer guides your project from concept through completion balancing aesthetics with function, managing details you may not even realize exist, and ultimately creating a cohesive, intentional space that reflects how you live.
At Pillar Interiors, that means:
- Translating your lifestyle into a design plan
- Managing selections, sourcing, and procurement
- Collaborating with contractors and trades
- Overseeing installation and final styling
In short: we take the vision off your plate and bring it to life, thoughtfully and seamlessly.
What Happens During an Interior Design Consultation?
A strong interior design consultation should feel less like a sales pitch and more like a conversation.
This is where we begin to understand not just what you want your home to look like, but how you want it to feel and function.
When we’re on a discovery call, we’re not just evaluating the project, we’re evaluating the fit.
Here are some of the questions we typically ask:
- How do you currently use your space and what isn’t working?
- What prompted you to start this project now?
- How involved do you want to be in the process?
- What does “done” look like to you?
Notice that none of these require you to have a defined aesthetic. That’s intentional.
Most clients don’t come to us knowing their “style.” Our role is to help uncover it.
The Questions You Should Be Asking When Interviewing an Interior Designer
Just as important as what we ask you is what you ask us.
If you’re deciding between designers, here’s what actually matters:
- What is your process?
A clear, structured process is everything. It tells you how your project will unfold, how decisions are made, and how communication is handled. - How do you handle the investment?
Transparency here is key. You want a designer who respects your investment and guides you in allocating it wisely, not one who avoids the conversation. - How involved will I need to be?
Some clients want to be hands-on. Others want to hand it off completely. Make sure your designer’s workflow matches your expectations. - What types of projects (and clients) do you typically work with?
This is where alignment really shows up. A designer who consistently works on projects like yours will be better equipped to deliver a seamless experience. - Can you walk me through a recent project?
This gives insight into not just the final result, but how they think, solve problems, and manage complexity.
How We Determine If We’re the Right Fit
This part matters just as much for us as it does for you.
At Pillar Interiors, we’re not trying to be the right designer for everyone; we’re focused on being the right designer for the right client.
We tend to work best with clients who:
- Value a guided, full-service experience
- Trust the process and want expert direction
- Appreciate thoughtful, elevated design that feels both refined and livable
- Are ready to invest in doing it right the first time
During a consultation, we’re listening for alignment in expectations, communication style, and overall vision. If something feels off, we’ll say so because a successful project depends on that mutual fit.
If You Don’t Know Your Style, That’s Okay!
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to come into the process with a clear aesthetic.
You don’t.
In fact, many of our best projects start with clients saying:
“I don’t know what my style is—I just know I want it to feel better.”
Our job is to interpret what you’re drawn to, refine it, and translate it into a cohesive design that feels like you, only more intentional.
The Bottom Line
Choosing an interior designer isn’t about finding the “best” one. It’s about finding the one who understands you, communicates clearly, and has a process you trust.
When that alignment is there, the entire experience becomes easier and the end result reflects it.
Ready to See if We’re a Good Fit?
If you’re in the early stages and want guidance on your project, we’d love to connect.
Book a complimentary interior design consultation to start the conversation.
