Episode 18: Interior Designers

Welcome to another episode of The Insider’s Guide to Custom Homes, where I do my best to give you the tools to build your new custom home to the exacting standards you deserve. I’m your host, Rick Bell, and today we’re diving into the world of interior design and how choosing the right designer can have a major impact on your custom home build.

What makes a custom home truly special and different from a production home?

Sure, a bespoke architectural design gives you curb appeal, beautiful light, generous volume, and a flow that feels just right. But beyond the architecture lies the warmth and comfort created by the interior finishes.

To achieve that perfect balance between architectural excellence and everyday livability, you need the right architect and interior designer on your team.

Think of it this way — the architect designs the body, the structure and bones of your home, while the interior designer brings it to life with color, texture, and personality.

Finding a designer whose vision aligns with yours can make or break your build.

So today, let’s talk about what to look for, what to expect, and how to choose the designer who can transform your home into your happy place.

So what is the role of an interior designer?

First, let’s clear up an important distinction — the difference between a decorator and an interior designer.

A decorator might simply have good taste and can help you pick paint colors or furniture.

An interior designer, on the other hand, holds a degree in interior design from an accredited institution, and is trained in both the art and science of design.

Most belong to professional organizations like ASID, which is the American Society of Interior Designers.

A qualified designer also has years of experience, whether working independently as a solopreneur or as part of a larger firm.

They have a deep understanding of how every design decision affects the trades and the overall flow of construction.

So what services should you expect from your designer?

When you’re building a custom home, your designer’s responsibilities go far beyond choosing colors. They’ll prepare cabinet drawings showing the layout of doors, drawers, appliances, and plumbing fixtures.

These scale plans guide your cabinet maker and construction team so that framing, plumbing and electrical work align perfectly.

Next, your designer will guide flooring and tile selections, helping plan how materials flow from room to room and where patterns or inlays should go. They’ll coordinate appliance and plumbing selections, door hardware, trims and casings, and all interior and exterior paint colors.

They’ll also assist with exterior materials like stone, wood or porcelain cladding, roofing selections, and the design of fireplaces, summer kitchens, saunas, gyms, and other specialty areas of your home.

Often they’ll collaborate with your architect or landscape architect on your pool, driveways, retaining walls and walkways.

Simply put, your designer touches nearly every visible surface of your home, ensuring the finished product reflects your personality and lifestyle.

How do you choose the right designer for your project?

Well, finding the perfect match can feel overwhelming, but a few simple steps can make it much easier.

Start by asking yourself,

“What services do I really need?”,

“What design style speak to me?”,

“Would I rather work one-on-one or with a larger team?”,

And, “Can I see myself collaborating with this person for months or maybe years?”.

Your builder and architect are great starting points for referrals. You can also ask friends, owners, reps, or advisors for recommendations ,or explore professional networks like the ASID.

Once you’ve identified four to six potential candidates, it’s time to peak under the hood.

Look at their online portfolios. Do they favor clean, modern lines or cozy traditional interiors? Are they bold with color or more understated and neutral?

From there, narrow your list to three finalists and set up short introductory zoom calls.

Explain what you’re looking for and let them describe their design philosophy, and process.

Next. Visit homes they’ve completed that match your taste. There’s no substitute for walking through a finished home and seeing their work up close.

Ask who you’ll be working with on a day-to-day basis and what kind of deliverables they’ll provide and confirm their pricing structure and retainer requirements.

Some designers charge hourly, some by project phase, and others earn through furnishings and accessories, often marking those items up by 25 to 40%.

Expect to pay a retainer. That’s their guarantee. They’ll stay committed to your project through completion.

So what’s coming next? This episode is just the beginning.

In the weeks ahead, we’ll launch a four-part interior design series, where I’ll sit down with leading interior designers to discuss their creative process, their approach to design, and the lessons they’ve learned working on some incredible custom homes.

Each conversation will give you new insight into how great design decisions are made and how you can apply those same ideas to your own home.

Let’s wrap it up.

Follow these steps and you’ll be ready to choose an interior designer who fits your vision, personality, and budget — someone who keeps your project on track, on time, and in style.

I’m Rick Bell. This has been another episode of The Insider’s Guide to Custom Homes.

Thank you for listening. And remember, let’s build your masterpiece the Landmark way.

Stay tuned and enjoy the journey.

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