Need some insider knowledge from a Norfolk interior designer? Read Louise Ives-Wilkinson's trade secrets and save money on your DIY...
We don't all have unlimited funds to invest in creating the perfect home but regardless of whether money is tight, there are five steps which will help create your perfect interior. These tips will help you get the most out of your budget and are the lesser known secrets of the interior design world, but I thought why not share them with you today?!
Discounts – Let's start with an unspoken truth that professional designers get great discounts on products they specify. Some will pass on a percentage of the savings to clients while others unfortunately won't so if you are considering hiring a designer always ask how they work and if they will pass on trade discounts. We are delighted that most of our customers have been known to save more money on their purchases than the cost of our total design fee.
Spend Vs Save – You want a high end look but don't have the budget? While a trained eye knows where to spend and where to save to make your money work harder, there are things you can do. Create bespoke on a budget by adding some beautiful brass handles to a basic unit or unscrew sofa legs and replace with a chic alternative. Small details don't have to cost a lot but can elevate your whole look.
Buy Once and Buy Right – It has happened to us all, we need a new sofa, go shopping, fall in love and purchase, the sofa arrives and it doesn't work in the space. To avoid this think about your desired end look. Measure your space and create a mood board, think about colours/styles already in the room, how you want to feel and don't rush.
Time is Money – Time is precious and with such a wealth of information available we can lose hours hunting for that perfect item. So be specific, write a list of key needs/wants and stick to them. Through experience, designers instinctively know where to find the ideal item to suit your requirements, freeing up more time for you to spend with loved ones.
Avoid Costly Mistakes – DIY mistakes happen to the best of us but to reduce the risks, ensure you research, plan and prepare thoroughly before taking action. It is perhaps worth knowing some designers offer an affordable hourly consultation service for any design dilemmas, allowing you to obtain professional advice before carrying out the work, saving any expensive mistakes.
If you are in need of some guidance then why not schedule a free chat with us on 01603 425333, email:
info@iwinteriors.co.uk or visit
www.iwinteriors.co.uk You can follow Louise Ives-Wilkinson, column sponsor, on instagram @louise_ives_wilkinson_design
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