Over the past ten years I have given plenty of design presentations to land projects as a Vancouver interior designer. Client satisfaction in interior design is often as much a matter of numbers as it is colors. My clients would find it unusual not to have early discussions concerning budgets.

To remove the guesswork from sourcing materials a designer has to have a good handle on how much is available. Otherwise the cost will spiral out of control. Too many items that make up a design sourcing list can chew into the budget well beyond their worth to the overall project. Start with the total and work within its constraints.

Beyond costing there are aspects to most interior design projects that can be anticipated. The size of a residence hints at the amount of space planning and drawings needed. The type of remodeling will tell you how many which trades and related permits are to be required. Professional designers have trusted trades so they can probably make a good estimate of their costs given the scope of work. When you get into the sourcing of materials is when the fluctuations can occur that balloon a budget.

Don”t kid yourself. Even heavyweights in business and entertainment ask about design budgets. It is a misnomer to believe otherwise. No one writes a blank check. Budget is an ends towards which your design means will aim. Discuss it with the client. If it is too low, adjust the scope of work. If it is higher, add quality materials. It is your compass.

A polite and professional discussion about budget held early will resolve numerous ambiguities later. The quality of materials will show in the cost. To do a job on a tighter deadline will affect the cost and availability of trades. The suppliers that need deposits will be looking to the designer before finalizing an order. This is too much to leave to uncertainty.

In my town of Vancouver and in my location in the downtown core, I come across many clients who are busy professionals. They are used to working with the same, with partners and team player to reach corporate or career goals. They are usually short on time and want to give their interior design project to me to save them from wasting time and not getting it done right.

Once clients decide on a budget they can be advised on what can be achieved. Each cost of a material or an accessory, a piece of art, the tile back splash, the type of wood for flooring, these all must meet the taste and function wanted by the client and still fit into the budget. Getting approvals and limiting surprises will make the job a whole lot easier for all parties.

Finally when interior design projects are at completion and the concepts have been drilled, hammered, painted, hung, caulked, sewn and carried into their new residences, the clients will take to their new environment. When the design has been accomplished the renovated home reflects the client’s desire and never so much as when the job is done on budget.