Why on EARTH would I need to hire someone to tell me how to customize my custom piece of furniture? Isn’t having the ability to completely customize my piece, kind of the point? I have a mood board with all the inspiration I need. I think I can handle choosing my own fabrics and finishes. Look, we don’t blame you for having these thoughts (or for having a mood board). But these thoughts can be a little misguided. An interior designer isn’t there to squash your hopes and dreams, in fact, just the opposite. It’s their job to see your vision and help you actually execute it. How so? We’ll explain.
Have you ever heard the term, stay in your lane? It’s quite combative, but we think it applies here. It takes more than a photograph of composite parts (a leg from this chair here, or the knobs of this cabinet there) to make a piece come to life. Let’s dive in!
- They don’t sell fabric at Target
We’re not including Super Target in this scenario, so don’t come for us. Though there are plenty of big box stores that do carry fabrics (among other crafty things), they’re not meant for use in upholstery (generally speaking). A designer simply has resources that you and I do not, and they’ve spent years accumulating them. They know where to source items and they can also steer you in the right direction when it comes to use (which is better for indoor vs outdoor, can I use the same fabric on my seat cushion that I used for my banquette, and every other scenario you can possibly imagine). Don’t make the mistake of going on your own, falling in love with a textile, purchasing it, only to find out later that it’s not suitable for use in a breakfast banquette because it’s extremely hard to clean and your children are prone to spills.
- You always have a million questions and though you can’t prove it, you’re pretty sure your last 3 plumbers aren’t returning your calls on purpose
You’ve never had an item made custom before, so of course you have a lot of questions! While it’s only natural, asking them one after the other may fall on deaf ears. As manufacturers ourselves, we can safely say that it’s impossible to give each client your undivided attention 100% of the time (though we would if we could). So on one hand, you can email your manufacturer everyday asking for updates (not great) or on the other, you can hire a designer to oversee on your behalf (better). They most likely know the answers and if not, they know where to find them (i.e. is this a question for the carpenter, upholsterer, or accounts payable). Think of them as your personal guide throughout the custom furniture experience!
- They’ve done this at least once or twice
Circling back to the question above. Designers are old pros, and they know exactly how the process works. From start to finish, they’ve seen it all. They can tell you when an item is taking too long to complete or when it’s moving right on schedule (they also know when to ask for updates). You’re paying for peace of mind and for experience, so use it!
- They’ll fight for you (tooth and nail)
This doesn’t apply to us because we’re perfect, but can you imagine spending hundreds of dollars to receive a substandard product? One that was supposed to be made perfect just for you? Inconceivable. A designer will always be in your corner, and they know when an item isn’t up to par and should be fixed. They make sure you’re not being taken advantage of and they’re job isn’t complete until you’re satisfied. We wouldn’t be able to live with shoddy craftsmanship and neither should you! That being said, they also know when to pick their battles and when to leave things alone (a very important trait indeed). Sometimes a cushion that may seem too firm just needs to be sat in a few times. And a designer can tell you that! They’re able to set realistic and fair expectations to both the client and manufacturer alike (not many people can say that).
So if you’re ever in doubt, we suggest doing a little research! Designers are not one-size-fits all, so you may just need to shop around until you find someone who likes what you like (and checks all your boxes). Some may even offer complimentary consultations, so take advantage and see who’s out there!
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