Connecticutforsale.com requested an interview with All About Interiors. Looking to give some insight on choosing an interior designer that is right for you. I was humbled and honored. Of course, I had a thing or two to say about the subject….
Tell us a little bit about your interior design company and its foundation.
All About Interiors started in 2000. Melanie Langford is the owner and primary designer. Hitting the ground running, designing for residential and small commercial client’s all over CT and haven’t stopped since. All About Interiors has established themselves as a classic interior design firm. Providing a fresh, modern-day perspective to timeless design. Our results create harmonious interiors that exude style, comfort, beauty and function. Our website was developed to showcase design projects. The website features AAI’s work, client reviews and design philosophy. From there, social media has evolved at warp speed. A weekly interior design blog was added. This interior design blog contains decorating tips, design inspiration and current design projects. Come take a peek and tell us what you think!
What are some of the services your company provides?
All About Interiors offers an array of interior design and decorating services. Including one time decorating consultations to full service interior design.
CONSULTATION
Some clients like to decorate for themselves. But with so many choices, it’s not always clear how to know where to start. How to pull it all together or have made costly mistakes in the past. Choosing the right interior designer for you is imperative. Melanie will personally meet with a client for a private session in their home. An initial consultation will help visualize and prioritize the client’s needs. The scope of the home improvement project is reviewed. It is also a great opportunity for choosing the right interior designer for you.
The investment in a decorating consultation will provide expert designer knowledge in the following:
- -How to save money and time on the project.
- -Information on how to stretch a budget and where to invest money in the home.
- -How to get the most return on the home improvement project
- -Advice on the sequence of projects
- -Color or finish selection
- -Space planning
- -Accessorizing
During the design consultation there is the opportunity to ask the designer questions. You may take notes and get immediate answers to all your decorating dilemmas. The next steps are up to the client. They can implement the ideas at their own pace and budget, knowing that they have a solid plan. The consultative service is a very inexpensive way to gain valuable knowledge of good design. And gain insight into the decorating process from a trained expert. A consultation can include one space, a few rooms or even an entire house.
FULL INTERIOR DESIGN CONCIERGE SERVICE
A good interior designer offers benefits above and beyond expert advice and knowledge. Choosing an Interior Design company that offers full Interior Design Concierge Service. This is valuable to those clients that are looking for that invaluable “one- stop shopping” design firm. Well-organized schedules, balancing budgets, supervising and billing are the details that matter most, once the design stage is completed and the project comes to life.
Details Of The Project
Although client and designer work together in the decision making.
An expert interior designer will personally handle all the details of the entire project. From designing to the very last finishing touches. Designers are happy to handle all aspects of the transformation. At AAI, we are equally comfortable working hand-in-hand with our homeowners. Project management experience along with organizational skills, ensure that the project goes efficiently with the quality results you’d expect. Since each project is managed for clients, they can concentrate on what they do best, and move forward with life.
What are three qualities that every interior design company should possess when choosing an interior designer?
At the very top of the list would be impeccable listening skills. The designer should completely understand the client’s vision, daily habits and personality. A good designer will listen closely and get to know their client’s needs and preferences. Each interior created for our clients tells a story of the individuality and lifestyle of the people who occupy them.
Above Average Design Service
Personal attention, excellent communication and ongoing constant support are other important attributes of any good designer. Choosing a professional designer who makes a habit of maintaining a favorable reputation by offering above average design service. At AAI, we’ve been fortunate to have the experience of many years in the sales arena prior to interior design. This experience has taught the value of going above and beyond what is expected. Understanding that people really value these attributes. Which is why repeat clients and referrals are a big part choosing an interior designer. Simply average service in interior design is not acceptable in my book.
Choosing An Interior Designer Who Educates The Client
Lastly, not every designer will take the time to explain the why and how of design. But they really should, in my opinion. I feel it’s the designer’s job to help clients avoid costly mistakes, reduce time-consuming delays and provide design education. It is important they feel confident and informed about choices. And with professional guidance, have made the best decisions for their personal needs. A good designer will inform their clients where the best return on their investment should be spent. Then make suggestions on how to save them money.
As an interior designer, how do you make sure you’re understanding what your client wants?
My years of experience working closely with clients taught me how important it is to ask questions. Then listen closely to clients and get to know their lifestyle (current and near future), personal preferences and requirements. Once confident about their vision, a well thought out and organized, master plan is formed. “One style does not fit all. “This ensures that the client’s personality and lifestyle, not the designer’s, will be reflected in the space when the project is completed.” Any good interior designer can design a beautiful room. But a great designer designs a beautiful room which comes to life. With various traits of the personalities of the people who inhabit the space.
What is your philosophy behind creating dynamic, yet functional spaces for your clients?
Good design is as much of a “feeling” as it is a look. Because good design is calculated and intentional. It is not just about just shopping for fabrics, furnishings and finishes. Placing them in a room and hope they make good design sense. It is an art and a science as well as a business. Each individual project involves countless consideration regarding aesthetics. As well as addressing design challenges and functionality. Combined together with superior project management, a dream can become a reality.
Creating An Environment That is Intentional For Each Client
It is my mantra or philosophy, if you will. “Having a beautifully decorated and well organized environment will make a person feel better”. If you feel better, you will live a happier and more comfortable life. Similarly, to putting on an outfit you know you look great in. It makes you feel more confident and more beautiful when wearing it. AAI is extremely passionate about creating an environment that is intentional for each client. No matter, whatever chapter of life they are in and is equally as stylish and beautiful for years to come.
What are some minor interior decorating ideas that can really improve the appearance of my home?
Three easy and inexpensive ways to spruce up a living space on a tight budget. They are 1) New paint color 2) New accessories; such as pillows, artwork or mirrors and area rug 3) swap out handles or knobs and update light fixtures.
What’s the best way for people to get in contact with you or your company?
Anyone can reach out to All About Interiors by going directly to our website at www.allaboutinteriors.org or email us at info@www.allaboutinteriors.org. Of course, phone is always available at 860-810-5080.