Hiring an interior designer for the first time can be a little stressful and even intimidating. Choosing a designer is a big responsibility and you have to trust she understands and can deliver exactly what you want. When you know what qualities to look for in a designer, you can make a good decision and find the right person for the job.

To find the best match for your project, set aside some time to meet with a few different design representatives to discuss your project and to see who has the most experience dealing with the type of project for which you’re hiring.

Since you’ll be working closely with the designer or designing team you choose, you should feel comfortable talking to and working with them. If you don’t feel comfortable asking questions and discussing details in the original meeting, keep looking until you find the right person.

Below are some of the most important qualities to look for when choosing an interior designer for your upcoming project.

Communication Skills

How well the designer communicates with you will be a big factor in how well the project goes. You have to communicate efficiently before you can be on the same page so ask yourself these questions. Is she really listening to what you’re saying or is she concentrating on what she thinks would look great? Do you get quality answers that you understand when you ask questions? Does she understand your plans for the space so she can meet your specific needs? Communication plays a key role in Interior design so finding someone with strong communication skills is very important and a major quality of a good interior designer.

Natural Talents

You can learn most anything you need to know with a good education but some people have a natural talent for designing that make them stand out. Some are very observant with a great eye for detail and others instinctively know what colors go well together based on the size of the room and style. Some designers can envision what a floor plan will look like and where every piece of furniture will go for optimal space and comfort before creating the design blueprints.

Consider the special talents you would like to see in your designer and look for someone that fits your requirements. If you want someone to make most of the decisions for you, a designer with the ability to envision the project finished would be a good match. Any good designer will have the ability to stay organized and on schedule. She will also be creative and have the knowledge to make suggestions that can help you achieve the look you want.

Always Check Credentials

A professional interior designer has spent years training and learning about the industry. Many have completed internships where they gained hands-on experience working directly under experienced designers. A certified designer will know the local laws and regulations associated with designing homes and commercial property. They will know and follow all safety codes and understand the importance of using quality materials in all designs.

When choosing a designer for your project, look for someone that has the training and experience to do a professional job, the natural talent that you think is the most important and excellent communication skills.