Interior Designers in Contra Costa County serving Alamo, Antioch, Bay Point, Blackhawk, Brentwood, Briones, Byron, Clayton, Clyde, Concord, Crockett, Danville, Discovery Bay, El Cerrito, El Sobrante, Hercules, Hilltop Mall, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, N Richmond, North Richmond, Oakley, Orinda, Pacheco, Pinole, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Point Richmond, Port Chicago, Richmond, Rodeo, San Pablo, San Ramon, Tara Hills, Walnut Creek, West Pittsburg, Knightsen, Diablo, Canyon, Bethel Island and Port Costa

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How to Find the Best Interior Designer in Contra Costa County, 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 designers, we can't all be interior decorating geniuses. Sometimes, guidance from a professional home decorator or interior designer is in order. Read on for information on choosing the best of the best in-home redecorating, interior design and interior decorators in Contra Costa County. more »

How to Find the Best Interior Designer in Contra Costa County, CA 

Today's homeowners are a new breed. Steeped as we are in the design, 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 designers, decorators and 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 Contra Costa County professional interior decorators, designers, or 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 decorators. Maybe the homeowners chose that fantastic shade of green...or maybe they were advised by the professional decorator on the show. Home redecorators, interior designers, and interior decorators have trained in and practiced the art of decoration and 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 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 Contra Costa County interior design professionals instead.

Designers in Contra Costa County
The Sate of California does not regulate the decorating and design industry, so there is no governmental oversight to licensure or registration as an interior designer or decorator. Fortunately, leaders in the industry have chosen to self-regulate through various associations and organizations. Additionally, the best Contra Costa County interior designers and decorators are affiliated with organizations like the Better Business Bureau or Diamond Certified.

Contra Costa County County Interior Designers, Interior Decorators, and Consultants
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 Contra Costa County decorator or designer had a hand in it.

Interior Design Options in Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, San Ramon and Richmond
There is a remarkably varied selection of designers, decorators and 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 Contra Costa County interior designers, interior decorators, and design consultants. We've listed some of the best designers, consultants and decorators in Contra Costa County for you. The top ten interior design, interior decorating, and consultation firms in Contra Costa County includes:

Look for Designers and Decorators in Contra Costa County That Do More Than the Bare Minimum
When engaging a design firm or consultant, look for those that have been mentioned favorably in 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. To view these links, see the article, "Key Consumer Resources for Interior Decorators and Designers in Contra Costa County."

 

 

How to Find the Best Interior Designer or Decorator in Contra Costa County 

Know What You're Looking For
Before you can decide if a particular Contra Costa County interior designer is right for you, it's best to have a clear idea of exactly what you're looking for.  Many designers specialize in one of many aspects of design.  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 design and decorating professionals. Much of the information you need is available on the Internet, including definitions of 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 Contra Costa County."
Use the list of questions below to help narrow your search.

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

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

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

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

Once you have decided on your designer, keep in contact with him or her, but be aware that most 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 your designer if you have concerns about the direction of your project.

 

 

Consumer Resources for Interior Decorators and Designers in Contra Costa County 

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 Contra Costa County within the following zip codes.

94507, 94509, 94531, 94565, 94506, 94513, 94553, 94514, 94517, 94520, 94518, 94519, 94521, 94523, 94525, 94526, 94530, 94803, 94547, 94806, 94549, 94596, 94556, 94801, 94561, 94563, 94564, 94804, 94805, 94850, 94572, 94582, 94583, 94595, 94597, 94598, 94808, 94807, 94802, 94569, 94575, 94570, 94548, 94820, 94528, 94527, 94524, 94522, 94516 and 94511


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

Alamo, Antioch, Bay Point, Blackhawk, Brentwood, Briones, Byron, Clayton, Clyde, Concord, Crockett, Danville, Discovery Bay, El Cerrito, El Sobrante, Hercules, Hilltop Mall, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, N Richmond, North Richmond, Oakley, Orinda, Pacheco, Pinole, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Point Richmond, Port Chicago, Richmond, Rodeo, San Pablo, San Ramon, Tara Hills, Walnut Creek, West Pittsburg, Knightsen, Diablo, Canyon, Bethel Island and Port Costa

 

 

Tips for Dealing with Design and Decorating Firms 

Have a plan.
When you find yourself in the market for a designer or decorator, it's a good idea to know what it is you need.  Interior designers generally have more training in the biggest types of 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 design firms can handle every type of decorating and 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 your designer or decorator, 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 decorating dreams.  Don't be afraid to share your insights with your design professional.  Your designer or decorator 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 Decorators and Designers.
If you can, try to get a few opinions about the options and relative expenses associated with your decoration or design needs. Try to give each potential person or firm the same information so that your comparison is easier.

Choose Experienced Professionals.
If you want to know how a designer's "product" turns out, ask around.  An experienced interior designer or decorator 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 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.
Although it can be difficult to know whether or not designer or decorator has 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 Designers in Contra Costa County" to learn more.