This isn’t a question we get asked, sadly. Most people wait until their new home or remodel is in some stage of the process, or even finished, before hiring an interior designer.

It is an overly common misconception that an interior designer can come in at any point in the building or remodeling process. When an interior designer is hired at the same stage as the architects, they become part of the team and ensure a smooth process from start to finish. When hired later—or, worst-case scenario, at the end—an interior designer usually has to correct many mistakes before they can even start.

So when an interior designer tells you that they need to be hired at the beginning of the project, don’t suspect it is because they are trying to get more money out of you. On the contrary: they are actually trying to save you money and headaches, and eventually time, as it will take them much longer to fix a botched job than to do it right the first time.

And if you don’t take our word for it, listen to prominent Orange County architect Richard Dodd in the Orange County Register. He says, “An interior designer can be an integral part of the design team, adding value to the finished product. But don’t wait until your home is built to get a designer involved. Whether the project is large or small, it is important to bring the designer on board early in the schematic phase. They are trained professionals and can add creativity to the interiors, envisioning opportunities that might not be apparent to a homeowner – or the architect.”

Pass this article on to anyone who is thinking of or starting a remodeling project. It could save them money in this recession! And who doesn’t want to do that?