How to Hire an Interior Designer: The Right Questions to Ask for Homes and Offices

Choosing an interior designer is more than finding someone with a good eye for style. It’s about finding a partner who listens, understands your vision, and delivers a space that not only looks beautiful but works beautifully for your life or business.

At Business Design Services (BDS), we’ve been helping clients create inspired residential, commercial, hospitality, and dental office interiors for over 30 years. We know that the design process can feel overwhelming, so we’ve put together a list of key questions to help you choose the right designer. These are the same kinds of questions our clients ask us—and ones we’re always happy to answer.

Questions to Ask When Hiring an Interior Designer for Your Home

1. What is your design style, and how do you adapt it to clients’ tastes?
   At BDS, we believe your home should reflect you, not us. We listen first, then tailor our expertise to your vision. We make certain the completed project is exactly as you envisioned it.

2. Can you show me examples of similar residential projects you’ve done?
   We proudly share our portfolio so clients can see how we’ve transformed spaces from cozy living rooms to whole-home remodels.

3. How do you work with budgets?
   We help clients maximize their investment by blending creative solutions with practical choices. We never forget who is writing the checks!

4. What is your process for selecting furniture, finishes, and materials?
   From timeless finishes to durable fabrics, we source high-quality options that balance style and function.

5. How do you handle project timelines?
   We provide clear timelines and consistent updates so you know exactly what to expect.

6. Will you work with existing furniture or recommend starting fresh?
   We’re flexible—whether it’s incorporating heirloom pieces or curating new ones, we design around your needs.

7. How do you incorporate functionality into your designs?
   Every design decision is made with your lifestyle in mind—storage, flow, lighting, and comfort.

8. What happens if unexpected issues arise during the project?
   With decades of experience, we anticipate challenges and handle them seamlessly so your project stays on track. 

Questions to Ask When Hiring an Interior Designer for Your Office

1. Have you worked on commercial or office design projects before?
   Yes—we specialize in commercial interiors, including corporate offices, hospitality spaces, and dental practices.

2. How do you design for productivity and employee well-being?
   We create spaces that foster focus, collaboration, and comfort—because a great office should energize your team.

3. Can you help us reflect our brand identity in the office design?
   Absolutely. From color palettes to space planning, we design environments that showcase your company culture. We make certain that the completed project is exactly as you envisioned it.

4. What is your approach to space planning?
   We maximize efficiency and flow so every square foot works for you.

5. Do you have experience with building codes, permits, and ADA compliance?
   With 30+ years of experience, we navigate codes and regulations with confidence so your project runs smoothly.

6. How do you balance aesthetics with functionality in a workplace?
   Our designs combine professionalism and practicality—creating spaces that impress clients and support daily operations. We even build marketing into our design concepts to ensure the office reflects you and your business philosophy.

7. What vendors, contractors, or furniture suppliers do you typically work with?
   We’ve built strong relationships with trusted partners, ensuring high-quality results. BDS also offers purchasing facilitation and works directly with key manufacturers, allowing us to deliver competitive discounted pricing.

8. How do you manage large-scale budgets and phased projects?
   Our project management expertise keeps businesses on schedule and within budget, even on complex projects.

9. Can you assist with technology integration (lighting, AV, workstations)?
   Yes—we design with today’s smart workplaces in mind, seamlessly blending technology into the environment.

Why Clients Choose Business Design Services

For over three decades, BDS has built a reputation for listening closely, designing thoughtfully, and delivering beyond expectations. Whether it’s a home that finally feels like “you,” or an office that motivates your team and impresses your clients, we bring both creativity and professionalism to every project.

If you’re ready to transform your space, let’s start a conversation.

👉 Contact Business Design Services today to schedule a consultation.