How to Choose an Interior Designer for Your Next South Sound Remodel

A newly remodeled kitchen with a beautiful waterfall edge countertop. A high quality interior designer understands not just color palettes but also textures and aesthetics.

If you’re planning a home remodel, you’re likely looking to work with an interior designer to help bring your vision to life. Choosing the right designer can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can find someone who understands your style and can make your renovation a success.

Here are some tips to help you select an interior designer for your home remodel:

Define Your Interior Style

Before you begin your search for an interior designer, it’s important to define your personal style. Take some time to gather inspiration and create a mood board. This will help you better communicate your vision and ensure that you and your designer are on the same page. Check our our Ideas page here for some quick thought starters.

Look for Interior Design Experience

When selecting an interior designer, experience matters. Look for designers who have a portfolio of completed projects similar to your own, and who have a track record of success. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and check them thoroughly. A Tops Solid Surface sales representative can provide you with a list of well-known designers in the South Sound area. Don’t be afraid to call or email us at for references [email protected]!

Consider Your Remodel and Design Budget

It’s important to have a clear understanding of your budget before you begin working with an interior designer. Be upfront about your financial limitations and ask for a detailed breakdown of costs. A good designer will work with you to create a plan that fits your budget without sacrificing style.

Communication is Key with Remodels

Communication is a vital component of any successful renovation project. Look for an interior designer who is easy to communicate with and who is responsive to your questions and concerns. Good communication will ensure that your project stays on track and that you achieve the results you’re looking for.

Check for Architectural and Design Credentials

The highest quality interior designers are typically licensed, registered, or certified by a professional organization. This credentialing can give you confidence in their abilities, as it means they have met certain standards of education and experience. It also shows that they have a passion and interest in their craft. Ask about any credentials or certifications when selecting a designer.

There are several common credentials for interior designers. Here are a few examples:

  1. National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ): This is the most common and recognized credential for interior designers in North America. To obtain the NCIDQ certification, designers must pass a three-part exam that covers a range of topics including design theory, building systems, and codes and regulations.
  2. Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA): CIDA is an independent, non-profit organization that evaluates interior design programs at the college and university level. Graduating from a CIDA-accredited program can give designers a competitive edge in the job market.
  3. American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): ASID is a professional organization for interior designers in the United States. ASID offers a range of membership levels, including Allied Membership, which is available to individuals who have completed a two-year interior design program.

These are just a few examples of the common credentials that interior designers may hold.

A simple design pallet put together by the Tops design team. Great remodel design doesn't just magically happen it takes work and an experienced eye. A knowledgeable interior designer can save you a lot of blood, sweat, and tears!
A simple design pallet put together by the Tops design team. Great remodel design doesn’t just magically happen it takes work and an experienced eye. A knowledgeable interior designer can save you a lot of blood, sweat, and tears!

Now that you know how to select an interior designer, it’s time to get started on your home remodel. And if you’re in need of countertops for your project, be sure to check out Tops Countertops. With a wide range of materials and styles in stock at all times, Tops can help you create the perfect look for your Western Washington kitchen or bathroom. Check out our Visualizer tools to get a feel for what colors and styles speak to you.

Kitchen Visualizer

Preview material, color and style options in our Virtual Kitchen Designer!

Remnants

Look through our huge selection of countertop remnants, perfect for small and medium projects.