The Design Comes Before the Remodeling
by Lance Filbert
Interior Design School Review Columnist
I think I speak for a lot of interior design professionals when I say, "please include us" when you think of house remodeling. The contractor and the interior designer need to work together from day one if you want to add a new look to your home interior design.
Very often, people who want to do some home improvement and remodeling get so involved with the financing, the dealings with all the contractors and workers, and the problem of where to live while their homes are torn apart that they forget about design. Take it from me, never forget that you are going to live in the place after all the kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling and other house remodeling projects are complete. Just changing walls and cabinets is not enough. You need to think of your home interior design at the same time as you think about the other work to be done.
Do-it-yourself Home Design
OK, I know. It sounds like I am just trying to drum up business for interior designers.
Well, yes - but also no. You don't really need to have a designer in to start the remodeling process. Here are a few suggestions. You can take a course in how to design a home interior at your local adult school program. That way, you'll have home interior design ideas in your head when you start talking to the remodeling contractor. You can also get hold of a home design computer program that will help you plan out the whole project before you see the first wall knocked out.
Of course you'll probably need the services of a professional interior designer to help you maximize your use and enjoyment of the newly remodeled space. But if you start the project the right way, you won't be handing that poor designer an impossible task.
About the Author
Lance Filbert is known for his witty and innovative design ideas. He has an extensive arts background and has an arts degree from the City University of New York. He lives in San Francisco with his partner, Bertram, and their cairn terriers, Toto and Toklas.
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