coaching vs. full-service interior design: what's the difference?

I love curating simple ideas and practical tips just for you. Quick, free info about home organization and interior design is what this blog is for, and I’m looking forward to sharing insights and lessons learned from projects I have wrapping up.

Today I’m putting a spotlight on interior design as a service. Specifically, full-service interior design vs. design coaching. Have you ever wanted to improve your home? Or considered hiring a professional designer but didn’t think it was worth the expense? Keep reading.

full-service interior design

Full-service interior design involves an interior designer and/or design team managing your entire project from initial concept to final installation. This service is ideal if you want to fully transform and furnish a particular space in your home, and especially if you're wanting to build new or make an addition. Signing on to full-service means you want an expert managing the entire process, you’re open and decisive when it comes to approving recommended selections, AND you’re ready for the financial investment.

Full-service designers are like conductors orchestrating several different tasks and trades to bring the vision you have for your home to life. Here's an overview of what full-service includes:

Programming (understanding client needs, goals, budget, and timeline)

Concept development (explore solutions to meet client’s program)

Schematic design (refine solutions, space planning, recommend materials/finishes)

Design development (refine plans, develop details)

FF&E (source and select furniture, fixtures, and equipment)

Construction drawings (refine floor plan, reflected ceiling plan, furniture plan, finish schedule, elevations, sections, and details)

Purchasing (furniture, decor, etc.)

Construction administration (work with contractors, trades, and vendors during construction process)

Installation (furniture, soft goods, decor)

Project management (manage each of the above design phases, continued coordination with client, contractor, trades, and vendors)

Understanding all that a project can entail helps people see the value of hiring a full-service designer. If you need guidance but know full-service isn’t in your budget, a design coach may be for you.

design coaching (or consulting)

Design Coaching is typically a one-time no-commitment consultation to discuss how you live in your home, identify problem areas (functional and aesthetic), and develop solutions you can implement at your own pace. Coaching is ideal if you have a dream or deep longing for more in your home, you’re ready to take action to make change happen, you’re willing to accept guidance, AND you’re ready to invest in YOURSELF.

Recognizing that full-service interior design isn't for everyone is why I created a coaching-style approach. Too many people shy away from professional design help and stay stuck (read: unhappy) in their space because of the full-service price tag. Both approaches have the same goal of creating a functional, personalized space you love to live in. The difference is in the process each takes to get you there.

is design coaching the level of guidance you're looking for?

Knowing yourself and how much you’re willing to relinquish or put in will help you determine which process is right for you and your project. If coaching sounds like the answer to your design dilemma, book a free call with me here. Today’s a good day to find what feels good for you and your home.

Always,