The Value of Interior Design

I recently gave a talk on the value of interior design. As I was gathering researching, I realized how much we (read: people) are influenced by DIY culture and media. One of the biggest misconceptions about interior design is that designers are just picking out "the pretties", mainly tile, lighting, plumbing, hardware etc. Well-executed interior design is about comfort. I could give a client the most beautiful space, but if its lacking comfort, no one will enjoy it. If there isn't a lamp to enjoy a book (or phone, let's be realistic), its lacking invitation.

The media has resorted to considering interior design (and thereby decorating), to mere aesthetics. As a licensed interior designer, I am thinking about light, sheen, coefficient of friction on a tile (to prevent slipping), the wearability of a fabric (also known as double rubs), the way a tight back sofa will sit differently than a cushioned back etc. This is 20 years of experience, but more importantly, tailored to each project and each client. Our work is never the same (thank heavens), as I'm tuning into the client and the setting, what makes them comfortable, how do they like their lighting, how they live their life.

By all means, hiring a licensed professional vs. a decorator or someone who "loves interior design" is the difference between planning a trip to France by yourself (with all the spreadsheets and fingers crossed hoping the online pictures convey in real life) or hiring an expert guide to curate one for you. Building a custom home is one of the most expensive undertakings for most clients, it involves dreams, desires, investment and team dynamics (builder, architect, designer, client). It should be about comfort and dreams...not "pretties", otherwise its missing the point entirely.

Bespoke and luxury interior design is about the details and asking your home to work harder for you - not the other way around. And I'm obsessed with details and therefore comfort.

Thanks for reading, Montana | M. Elliott Studio

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