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How an Interior Designer adds value to your home reno

When we think about Interior Design, it’s easy to let our thoughts drift to pretty paint samples, fabric swatches and other ways we want to beautify our space.
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Interior Design involves an in-depth knowledge of home systems, including architecture, construction and building codes, space planning, product knowledge, plumbing and more, says Azucena Saavedra, Interior Designer with MAC Renovation.

When we think about Interior Design, it’s easy to let our thoughts drift to pretty paint samples, fabric swatches and other ways we want to beautify our space.

But anyone who’s undertaken a renovation quickly understands how much more is involved, notes Azucena Saavedra, Interior Designer with MAC Renovation.

In fact, Interior Design – as opposed to interior decorating – involves an in-depth knowledge of home systems: architecture, construction and building codes, for example, space planning, product knowledge, plumbing and more. In British Columbia, that means designers should hold a Diploma or Bachelor Degree in Interior Architectural Design from an accredited institution, and the related professional affiliations that let homeowners know the designer they’re working with has the requisite education and training.

In short, not only will the colours and textures in the finished space look great, but the floorplan will have the right flow, the lighting design will serve the desired purpose, and the storage and organization will make your life easier.

“As an Interior Designer, we look at the space as a whole, rather than individual rooms,” Saavedra explains.

That’s especially true in renovations of older homes. Where houses used to be compartmentalized, today’s open floorplans mean space planning is key – considering how the space will be used and the flow of traffic, for example, as well as creating complementary aesthetics to match the age of the home and personal style of the clients.

A designer will also help pinpoint practical solutions. As a bedroom closet in one area is removed to enlarge a cramped ensuite, an Interior Designer can help you find solutions to address that lost storage.

Working collaboratively, clients can expect:

  1. Initial consultation
  2. Draft preliminary space plans and scope of work
  3. Develop a colour palette and material list, such as finishes, appliances, cabinets, etc
  4. Refine final drawings, material specifications
  5. Devise a work schedule
  6. Inspect and review the work in progress
  7. Final walk-through

“Design is like a puzzle,” Saavedra says. “I really enjoy the construction side, in addition to the aesthetic elements, and figuring out how all the pieces work together.”

Working with a designer can also be useful for those trying to manage their budget during a renovation. Because Saavedra is well-versed in how different components of a home work together, she also understands how changes to one part of the renovation can impact another.

And, when adjustments do need to be made, her experience can help guide homeowners to specific product or design choices that can help adapt their goals as needed.

“I really love everything about Interior Design, and seeing how the project comes together from initial planning through construction and to that final staging,” Saavedra says.

To learn how an Interior Designer can help with your renovation, visit macreno.com.