One of the most common questions homeowners ask when planning a renovation or new home is: “When should I hire an interior designer?” Many people assume interior designers are brought in at the end of a project to select paint colors, furniture, or décor. In reality, the best time to hire an interior designer is at the very beginning of the project —during the planning phase. For renovations and new builds, early collaboration with an interior designer helps ensure your home is not only...

Step 1: Decide the goal of the room Pick 2–3 words for the vibe you want, like: bright + airy cozy + warm calm + soft crisp + clean This keeps you from chasing every pretty color you see. Step 2: Identify your “non-negotiables” Stand in the room and list what isn’t changing: flooring countertops/stone tile cabinets/wood tones large furniture These finishes will tell you whether you need to lean warm or cool. Step 3: Choose your undertone direction first Before picking the exact color, choose...

When starting a design project, clients often ask me where the real  beginning is. Is it selecting finishes? Choosing cabinetry? Falling in love with furniture or lighting? The answer is simpler—and far more important—than most people expect: space planning . Space planning is the foundation of every successful project. Before a single finish is selected or a product is ordered, the layout must work both functionally and aesthetically. If the space doesn’t work on paper, it won’t magically...