Full-Service Interior Design vs. Design Consultations: Which Is Right for You?
9 December - Read, Design Services & Process
One of the most common questions I get is:
“Do I need full-service design, or would a consultation be enough?”
The short answer? It depends.
The honest answer? It depends on your project, your personality, your time, and how much decision-making you want on your plate.
Let’s break it down — without the fluff.
What Full-Service Interior Design Really Means
Full-service interior design is exactly what it sounds like: comprehensive, hands-on, and start-to-finish.
This option is best for clients who want guidance through every phase of the project and don’t want to manage the details themselves.
Full-service design typically includes:
Space planning and layout development
Design concepts and visual direction
Finish and material selections
Detailed drawings and specifications
Coordination with contractors and vendors
Ongoing support during construction or installation
In other words, you’re not just getting ideas — you’re getting execution, oversight, and someone thinking five steps ahead at all times.
This is ideal if:
You’re renovating or building
Your project involves multiple decisions and trades
You want a cohesive, elevated result
You value having a professional manage the details
It’s also ideal if you don’t want your renovation to become a second full-time job. (Because it can.)
What a Design Consultation Looks Like
Design consultations are more focused, limited-scope sessions designed to give you clarity, direction, and expert input — without ongoing involvement.
Consultations are typically used for:
Layout feedback
Finish or material guidance
Paint color selection
Furniture placement advice
Troubleshooting design challenges
Think of a consultation as a strategic working session. You bring the questions, and we work through them together.
This option is best if:
You’re comfortable managing the project yourself
You want professional insight before moving forward
You’re early in the planning process
You need a second opinion or confirmation
Consultations are powerful — but they rely heavily on your follow-through.
The Real Difference: Support vs. Ownership
Here’s the most honest way to think about it:
With full-service design, I’m owning the process with you.
With a consultation, I’m guiding you — and then you take it from there.
Neither is better. They just serve different types of clients and projects.
If decision-making stresses you out or you’re short on time, full-service design often makes the experience smoother and less overwhelming.
If you enjoy being hands-on and just need expert input at key moments, a consultation may be all you need.
Common Misconceptions
“Full-service design is only for huge budgets.”
Not true. It’s about complexity, not just cost.
“A consultation will give me a full plan.”
Consultations offer guidance, not detailed drawings or ongoing coordination.
“I can upgrade later if needed.”
Sometimes yes — but it’s always best to choose the level of support you’ll realistically need from the start.
So… Which One Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Do I want to manage this project myself?
How confident do I feel making design decisions?
How complex is my project?
How much time and energy can I realistically commit?
Your answers usually point you in the right direction.
And if you’re still unsure? That’s okay. Part of my job is helping you figure that out — honestly, not upselling you into something that doesn’t make sense.
