Virtual Consultations vs. Full-Service Interior Design: Which is Right for You?

Online interior design consultations offer a new way to receive the professional help you need. Here’s how to know if a virtual or traditional interior design consultation is best for your project.

You have an interior design project on your radar, and you could definitely use some guidance. Is a virtual consultation what you need, or are full-scope services right for you? 

Design by Centered by Design, Photo by Taylor Hall O’Brien

A virtual consultation may be right for you if:

You have a tricky floor plan or design challenge to overcome. 

During a virtual design consultation, the designer can offer tailored solutions for the space. This is particularly beneficial for unique layouts, such as large, open-concept spaces or loft apartments, where traditional design approaches may not be effective.

You’re weighing the pros and cons of design decisions.

If you are having a hard time “pulling the trigger” on your project, it is helpful to have an expert weigh in. The designer can help with honing your design aesthetic, setting a realistic budget, and offering a general timeline for the project.

‍You plan to manage your own project.

 If you plan to hire a contractor and directly oversee trades for your project, an interior designer can offer advice on floor plans, fixture selections,  decor and color palette suggestions and help you see the project through from conception to completion in an a la carte manner.

‍You’re looking for a gut check on a project that you’re ready to execute.

Even if you are pretty set on your decisions and ready to start your project, a brief check-in with an expert might be helpful. The designer can alleviate some of your concerns by validating your choices or suggesting tweaks to your plan that may save time and money.

You’re focused on a specific detail like paint colors, lighting, window treatments, upholstery or hardware.

It is nice to get an expert second opinion so you can be confident in your ultimate decisions.

You need some suggestions of where to shop for certain items.

Through a virtual consultation, you can get quick recommendations on where to source your items.

You would like for someone to help you with styling the finishing touches.

A virtual consultation can get you to the finish line faster. You have already made so many decisions, why not let a professional help you with the all-important finishing touches to make sure the project is perfect for you?

You want your space to look and feel special, but your budget is less than what your preferred designer typically works with. 

This is where virtual consultations really shine. You can get direct expert help without breaking the bank.

You’re designing one room and your preferred designer only takes on larger projects. 

 Because most interior designers have a minimum required scope that they’ll consider for full-service projects, virtual design consultations are perfect to ensure you gain the personalized help your project deserves with the person you would like to work with.

Your preferred designer lives far away and you’re comfortable with collaborating from the comfort of your home. 

No need to meet in person. Get expert advice when you are free, on your own time.

Design by Melanie Turner Interiors, Photo by Mali Azima

Traditional, full-service interior design services may be right for you if:

You’re seeking a highly personalized experience. 

 If you would like to have someone managing your project and directly coordinating with trades every step of the way, full-service interior design is the right choice.

You would like someone else to manage your interior design project. 

If you don’t have the bandwidth or desire to manage all the moving parts of a design project, hiring a designer in the traditional sense would work best for you.

You need someone with technical know-how to guide you from start to finish. 

Especially for larger projects, a designer that is there throughout the process will prove beneficial.

You would like someone to visit your space and take measurements. 

There is a saying for a reason: measure twice, cut once. Determining what will work where in your space can be stressful so having a designer on-hand to take professional measurements can take the guesswork out of the equation.

You would like for someone to work hand-in-hand with your architect.

Collaboration is key. Hiring a full-service interior designer will streamline collaboration between all parties involved, making decision-making much easier.

You’re seeking custom work.

When you’re aiming for custom work, an interior designer is your secret weapon—transforming raw ideas into a space that’s uniquely, unapologetically you. Their insider access and design savvy turn your vision into reality, ensuring your home doesn’t just stand out, but stands apart.

You need someone to oversee work on the job site and address unforeseen issues. 

When unforeseen issues arise on the job site, an interior designer ensures quick resolutions, keeping your project on schedule.

You need someone to handle quality control.

No one is better at making sure all work is done properly and up to par than a designer that can be onsite throughout the process or has a project management system in place from afar.

You would like the process to be more streamlined with set dates for installations. 

By using traditional design services, all ordering and coordination of installation is done for you.

Regardless of your project size, there is a solution for your design needs. Still unsure of what the best solution is for your space? Feel free to reach out to us here and we can help point you in the right direction.