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How to Find the Best Interior Designers & Interior Decorators in San Francisco CA

Anywhere you work, spend your free time, welcome friends, celebrate holidays and showcase your style offers a great opportunity to decorate, re-decorate or design. Although we all want to be tastemakers and interior designers, we can't all be interior decorating geniuses. Sometimes, guidance from a professional home decorator or interior designers is in order. Read on for information on choosing the best of the best in-home redecorating, interior designers and interior decorators in San Francisco . more »

How to Find the Best Interior Designers & Interior Decorators in San Francisco CA 

Today's homeowners are a new breed. Steeped as we are in the interior design, home decorating, and entertaining industry's influences (thank you, Ms. Stewart), who is content to live in that unremarkable home anymore? Nowadays, we all want living and working environments that are compatible with our lifestyle, and our taste. More than that, we want to show off our lifestyle, our kids, pets, and hobbies. Your mother may have been proud of her home-made chintz slip covers and drapes, but now we want custom-matched microfiber furniture, one-of-a-kind accent pieces, and "green" floors and paints. We want to make our living spaces the envy of our friends and neighbors. The ever-increasing rate at which new "miracle" products are developed means that there is a solution to virtually any home-decorating obstacle, and interior designers, interior decorators and home design consultants are using them to great effect. If you want to take advantage of the latest and greatest ideas and products, and make your home your showcase; call one of the following San Francisco professional interior decorators, interior designers, or home decorating consultants.

Of course, many people are taking on the task of home-decorating on their own, thanks in part to the multitude of television shows which highlight miraculous decorating makeovers (think "Trading Spaces," "Design on a Dime," "Flip That House" et al). It's important to remember that these shows are also showcasing interior designers and interior decorators. Maybe the homeowners chose that fantastic shade of green...or maybe they were advised by the professional interior decorator on the show. Home redecorators, interior designers, and interior decorators have trained in and practiced the art of decoration and interior design. They are generally creative, hands-on, problem solving types who thrive on making spaces look great, and finding unique items that complement all kinds of styles. You might fancy yourself a creative, tasteful home decorator; so did the guy down the block that painted his house royal blue with mauve trim. Before you go ripping out the linoleum or painting the dining room black, consider hiring one of our recommended San Francisco interior designers & interior decorators instead.

Interior Designers & Interior Decorators in San Francisco
The Sate of California does not regulate interior designers or interior decorators, so there is no governmental oversight to licensure or registration as interior designers or interior decorators. Fortunately, leaders in the interior design industry have chosen to self-regulate through various interior design associations and interior decorators organizations. Additionally, some San Francisco interior designers and interior decorators are affiliated with organizations like the Better Business Bureau or Diamond Certified.

Interior Designers, Interior Decorators, and Home Design Consultants in San Francisco
In addition to being members of the Better Business Bureau or Diamond Certified, most designers get their credibility from previous clients. More so than almost any other industry, designers and decorators are best advertised by word-of-mouth. A gorgeous, well-appointed space is sure to generate commentary. Chances are, if it truly warrants attention, a San Francisco decorator or designer had a hand in it.

Interior Design & Interior Decorating Options in San Francisco
There is a remarkably varied selection of interior designers, home decorators and interior design consultants available; it can be difficult to know how to choose. When you have determined what your goals are, or you have some ideas about decorating your surroundings, it's time to start canvassing the best San Francisco interior designers, interior decorators, and home decor consultants. We've listed some of the best interior designers, home decor consultants and home decorators in San Francisco for you. The top ten interior designers & interior decorators in San Francisco includes:

Look for Interior Designers and Home Decorators in San Francisco That Do More Than the Bare Minimum
When engaging an interior designer or home decorating consultant, look for those that have been mentioned favorably in home decor industry publications, or have high consumer ratings from such organizations as the Better Business Bureau. The Prime Buyer's Report has compiled a list of reputable publications, associations, and internet resources for the interior design industry. To view these links, see the article, "Key Consumer Resources for Interior Decorators and Interior Designers in San Francisco ."

 

 

How to Find Good Interior Designers & Interior Decorators in San Francisco  

Know What You're Looking For With Interior Design & Home Decor
Before you can decide which interior designers in San Francisco are right for you, it's best to have a clear idea of exactly what you're looking for in your home decor. Many interior designers specialize in one of many aspects of home decorating. For instance, they may only work in residential spaces, or only in commercial environments. Some have an emphasis in a particular style like modern or arts and crafts. Have some idea what you like and keep that in mind at all times during your conversations with interior designers and home decorators. Much of the information you need is available on the Internet, including definitions of interior design terms, thousands of great ideas for any room in your house, and much, much more. See the article "Key Consumer Resources for Interior Designers and Interior Decorators in San Francisco ."
Use the list of questions below to help narrow your search.

How long have you been doing interior design and home decorating?
How long have you been working in this specialty?
How do you calculate an estimate for the interior design?
What is your hourly rate for home decor or interior design?
How many interior design clients do you typically handle at one time?
How many people will work on an interior design project like mine (associates, assistants, colorists, subcontractors, etc.)?
Will you consult in person at my home/office/business?
Do you have any interior design contracts with distributors or manufacturers?
What kinds of samples do you have available?
Can I see some examples of your interior designs?

It's very important that you work with interior designers or interior decorators that you feel you can trust and make you feel comfortable. Consider your first impression, beginning with the first phone call. Was your initial impression that you were dealing with competent interior design professionals? Did you feel respected and accommodated? If you were offered a consultation, did you feel at-ease with the interior designer or interior decorator? Did you feel he or she exuded confidence? Are you comfortable with his or her judgment regarding your interior design style preferences? Probably one or two names of interior designers will rise to the top of your list after you have considered these things.

First Impression of the Interior Designers and Home Decorators
Good interior design professionals will listen carefully to what you're saying and will ask great questions. Be wary of interior designers who seem eager to push certain brands of flooring or wall coverings. If an interior designer or home decorator seems to only want you to sign an interior design contract without hearing something about your ideas, choose someone else. You are not obligated to hire the first interior designer you talk to.

When you've selected who seems to be the most suitable inteior designers or home decorators for you, make sure you understand the terms of the interior design contract. Check for any consumer complaints from the Better Business Bureau, and check to see if there are legitimate complaints lodged with interior design and home decorating industry watchdog groups.

Once you have decided on interior designers, keep in contact with them, but be aware that most interior designers are not office-bound. Remember you are dealing with creative people whose work is largely "in the field." Throughout your project, you will surely have questions. Write them down, and try to consolidate your questioning. That is, instead of calling every time you have a question, call once a week, with all your questions ready. Don't hesitate to ask the interior designers and interior decorators if you have concerns about the direction of your project.

 

 

Consumer Resources for Interior Decorators and Interior Designers in San Francisco  

Interior Design Associations & Licensing

BBB Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org)
American Society of Interior Designers (www.asid.org)

Certified Interior Decorators International (www.cidinternational.org)

International Interior Design Association (www.iida.org)

U.S. Green Building Council (www.usgbc.org)


The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the interior designers and interior decorators in San Francisco within the following zip codes.

94101, 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94108, 94109, 94110, 94111, 94112, 94114, 94115, 94116, 94117, 94118, 94119, 94120, 94121, 94122, 94123, 94124, 94125, 94126, 94127, 94129, 94130, 94131, 94132, 94133, 94134, 94140, 94141, 94142, 94146, 94147, 94157, 94158, 94159, 94164, 94165, 94166, 94167, 94168, 94169, 94170, 94172 and 94188


The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the top 10 interior designers and decorators in San Francisco within the following cities.

Bernal Heights, Cow Hollow, Diamond Heights, Duboce Triangle, Eureka Valley, Fisherman's Wharf, Haight-Ashbury, Hayes Valley, Inner Sunset, Japantown, Laurel Heights, Marina District, Mission District, Nob Hill, Noe Valley, North Beach, Outer Sunset, Pacific Heights, Presidio, Rincon Hill, Russian Hill, San Francisco, Sea Cliff, Sunset District, Telegraph Hill, Treasure Island, Twin Peaks and Western Addition

 

 

Tips for Dealing with Interior Designers & Interior Decorators 

Have a plan for your home decor wishes
When you find yourself in the market for interior designers or interior decorators, it's a good idea to know what it is you need. Interior designers generally have more training in the biggest types of home decorating, like knocking out a wall, or re-framing a door or window. They should have some knowledge of electrical capacity, safety and construction. An interior decorator works less with the planning of a space and is instead an expert in esthetics, finishes and furnishings. Ask yourself if you need a major project manager who can advise on square footage and useable space, or if you just need help with color, harmony, furniture selection etc. Plenty of interior design firms can handle every type of interior decorating and interior designing projects, from new drapes in your living room to coordinating with an architect on a new building or addition. Know what it is you hope to accomplish with the aid of interior designers or interior decorators, and choose accordingly.

Write it Down.
Think through your plans, and write down your ideas for your space. Do you have some hopes for storage space, or some favorite colors in mind? Write them all down. Sometimes a single piece of artwork or a favorite chair is the inspiration for your home decorating dreams. Don't be afraid to share your insights with the interior designers. The interior designers or interior decorators will want to know more about you and your lifestyle. Also, be prepared to talk about how you intend to use the space. Is it formal, informal, or should it be designed to accommodate both? Are you living with children or pets? Jot down anything you think might be important.

Get Several Separate Opinions From Several Interior Decorators and Interior Designers in San Francisco .
If you can, try to get a few opinions about the options and relative expenses associated with your home decoration or interior design needs. Try to give each potential interior designer or design firm the same information so that your comparison is easier.

Choose Experienced Interior Designers & Interior Decorators in San Francisco .
If you want to know how the interior designers "product" turns out, ask around. Experienced interior designers or interior decorators should have plenty of examples to show you. Keep in mind, you are not basing your comparisons on how well you think a project looks alone. The interior design client's taste is always a factor in the outcome of a project. Recognize that something may not be your taste, but still be well-designed and harmoniously or creatively decorated.

Know Your Rights As An Interior Design Client.
Although it can be difficult to know whether or interior designers or interior decorators have acted negligently or been reckless with your funds, or your home or office, there are resources available if you feel you need to lodge a complaint or report. Reference the California Department of Consumer Affairs. (See our article, "Key Consumer Resources for Interior Decorators and Interior Designers in San Francisco " to learn more.