Interior Designers are valuable

Ever walked into a home and instantly felt as if everything just clicked into place? Chances are you have an interior designer to thank! This week we sat down with Erin Fairmaid, to talk about the real magic behind well-designed spaces and why interior designers are invaluable. Because the industry isn’t regulated, the term “interior designer” can be thrown around by people without knowledge and experience. This dilutes the profession's value and leads to the myth that interior designers just pick paint colours and buy furniture. Erin makes it clear that this is just scratching the surface. Her work involves technical skills, spatial planning, and understanding clients' lifestyles down to the tiniest details – pets, family routines, you name it. She also works closely with architects and builders to design a space that isn’t just beautiful but highly functional. Erin points out that it’s important to get your interior designer involved early in the pre-construction process. Simple tweaks to a floor plan can significantly improve the functionality of a home, and the sooner you make them the less impact they’ll have on the timeline and budget. During our conversation, Erin tackles some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding Interior Designers: 1. Interior designers are only for wealthy people: Erin argues that her work isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. A well-thought-out design can streamline a build, saving money and resources. 2. Anyone can be an interior designer: While technically true due to the unregulated nature of the industry, great designers have a mix of innate talent and continuous learning. Erin urges homeowners to look for a designer with demonstrated experience. 3. Interior designers just follow trends: Some might, but not Erin. When a client asks for something that’s trending, she challenges this by asking clients about their real preferences—leading to more personalised and timeless designs. Interior Designers bring so much value to building projects, but are they appreciated for it? Well, it’s a mixed bag. The lack of regulation in the industry leads to confusion and undervaluation of skilled professionals like Erin. On the other hand, anyone who’s seen her work knows it’s value. Whether it’s ensuring functional layouts or sourcing materials that fit the budget without compromising on style, Erin’s contributions are irreplicable. So, if you're planning a home renovation or building anew, don’t underestimate the role of a talented interior designer. They bring a lot more to the table than just aesthetic value. They can make your home not just a place to live, but a place to thrive. LINKS: Connect with our Guest: Website: www.hehedesign.com.au Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpod Connect with Hamish: Instagram: @sanctumhomes Website: www.yoursanctum.com.au/ Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructions Website: www.carlandconstructions.com/