Every industry has its myths and misconceptions, and interior design is no different.
1. Interior design is expensive
This is by far the most common misconception we come across. Beautiful spaces don’t have to cost the earth! With some smart choices and expert help, you can create a stunning interior on a modest budget.
Working with an interior designer can really help. We have extensive technical expertise, which means we know how each product and space in your home needs to function - so we can recommend where you should invest in high-spec products, and where you can afford to save.
Most of the projects we work on include a mixture of affordable and premium materials, carefully selected to create an impressive end result without compromising on quality or budget.
This recent project used Finfloor Supreme Laminate to deliver the look of a classic herringbone pattern, without the time or cost of laying individual planks.
2. Interior design is all about aesthetics
Aesthetics - the way a room looks - is an important part of interior design, but it’s definitely not the only consideration. Good interior design also influences how your spaces feel and function.
Defining how the space feels
Different spaces have different purposes: it makes sense for a bedroom to feel relaxed and calm, but that mood might not suit a busy family kitchen, or a home office.
Interior design choices set the foundational ambience of each space, making sure every room is tailored to how you’ll be using it. Designers can guide you towards materials, lighting, and layouts that will evoke the feeling you want to create.
One layout, two moods: material choices define the ambience in these kitchens. Splashback: Porcelanosa Xtone Calatorao Nature (L), Porcelanosa Xlight Taj Mahal Silk (R)
Defining how the space functions
Interior designers carefully structure layouts, lighting and materials to make sure each space in your home flows naturally, and is easy and pleasant to use.
Material selections also have a significant effect on functionality. An experienced interior designer can explain all the pros and cons of different flooring materials, window treatments, and more. You’ll have confidence that the materials you choose for your home will suit the way you use the space, and maximise the enjoyment of living in your home.
Style meets functionality in this compact wall-mounted vanity.
3. Interior design is mostly about choosing colours
When it comes to choosing the products used in your interiors, colour matters, but materials, texture, and performance are equally important.
Understanding the interplay between the different elements of a room is a key element of great design. Colour sets the mood, but texture, tonality and finish add depth and sophistication to a space.
Knowing how to select the right textures, balance the room, and ensure it’s harmonious with the rest of the house is no small feat - all while working within your budget, and making sure you love the end result.
Texture, colour, finish and tone all need to work in harmony.
Our interior designers don’t just have a good eye for design, they’re also sourcing specialists and technical experts.
We want to make sure the materials used in your interior will be the right fit for your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. That means having an extensive knowledge of all the available products and staying up to date with new ranges and developing technologies, so we can recommend the most suitable products for your project.
All in a day’s work: interior design is about much more than colour selection.
4. Interior design is only for big, architectural houses
Every space benefits from great design, whether you’re planning to build a sleepout or a mansion. Interior design can transform a house from ‘standard spec’ to truly spectacular.
Smaller homes are often the ones that benefit the most from interior design. An experienced designer has a whole host of ways to make your home feel lighter, brighter and more expansive.
Small spaces, big impact: design choices can transform homes of any size.
5. The interior designer will take over creatively
Working with an interior designer for the first time can feel daunting. What if they judge your tastes and preferences? What if they override your requests, because they aren’t on trend? What if the designer creates a space they love… but it just doesn’t feel like your home?
When you work with a good designer, none of that will happen. It’s an interior designer’s job to listen to what you like, understand what you want to achieve, and use their expertise to make that happen. We don’t mind if your interior doesn’t match our personal taste - we won’t be living in the home!
Some designers specialise in particular design styles - and we can sometimes ‘matchmake’ by recommending a designer whose personal style aligns with your own - but any good designer will be able to bring your vision to life, regardless of their own style.
Collaboration in action at the Nextdore showroom
If you have any questions about how we provide our services - or if you’d like to start a project together - visit our Montreal Street showroom.