How to Choose an Interior Designer in Geneva – Part II
- estellebogros
- Jan 15
- 6 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Finding the top-rated interior designers in Geneva and picking the one who truly matches your expectations might seem daunting. Let me walk you through my detailed process to make this choice easier and ensure you find the right person for your project. My approach is thorough and tailored to your needs. I take the time to deeply understand your requirements, uncover your desires, and anticipate what you might not have considered yet—all so I can present you with multiple options. Let me show you how I structure my work in three clear steps and how my process can subtly but significantly improve your quality of life.
I. Why I will spend over an hour asking you questions
The first step in my method is all about understanding your situation in depth. This isn’t just about getting a general sense of what you want; it’s about diving into the details to set your project up for success.
Understanding what you want
Each client is unique, and I’ll even say every project combines several unique individuals. If you share your space with others, their needs matter too. I make it a point to chat with everyone involved to ensure harmony.
Together, we’ll explore:
The daily challenges you face in your current space.
The changes you’d like to make.
Your short-term and long-term priorities and goals.
Defining your goals
Do you want to maximize functionality? Renovate to boost your property’s value? Or create an aesthetic interior that reflects your personality? These are the broad questions we’ll tackle.
Exploring your daily needs
Your routines—and those of everyone you live with—are key to designing a space that works for you. For example: how do you use your kitchen? Do you rely on multiple appliances? What happens in your living room? Is it just for watching TV, or do you also host gatherings there? This type of insight helps me offer solutions that simplify and elevate your day-to-day life.
Identifying your style and preferences
To deliver a project that feels like "you," I’ll delve into your design preferences:
Do you prefer a minimalist style or a cozy vibe? Colors or neutral tones? Patterns or simplicity?
Are there pieces of furniture you want to keep? Do you love vintage finds, or are you all about new purchases?
If you’re unsure about your style, don’t worry—we’ll take the time to discover what makes you tick.
Once we’ve nailed all of this down, we’ll have a solid foundation: your personalized brief.
Analyzing your space and its challenges
Next, I’ll evaluate your home or apartment. Every space has its strengths—and let’s be honest, its limitations too. I’ll carefully assess the technical and architectural constraints to find the best solutions for your interior design. A guiding principle of mine is summed up by Charles Baudelaire’s quote:“Parce que la forme est contraignante, l'idée jaillit plus intense.”
II. Why I provide three 2D plans instead of just one
Once we’ve laid the groundwork, I’ll create three distinct layout options (known as PDS, or preliminary design studies). Yes, it’s three times the effort compared to what most interior designers or space-planners offer, but I firmly believe there's always at least three ways to solve a problem. Let me explain how this works for you and me both in the long-run:
Exploring every option within your brief
Your brief is our starting point. It outlines your exact requirements, like storage needs or how spaces should flow. Within that brief and budget I can already picture a few different options that work and showcase different ways to meet your goals.
Uncovering potential beyond the brief
My job as an interior designer and space-planner is to open your eyes to new possibilities. So I always keep at least one option that is beyond, or simply very different, from what you had imagined. These creative options often reveal untapped potential in your space.
With three options, you’ll have a complete picture and can pick the one that best fits your needs and lifestyle before we dive into stylistic choices.
III. Why I break my process into three flexible steps
Mon approche se structure en trois phases, vous offrant la possibilité d’arrêter ou de continuer à chaque étape selon vos besoins.
Step 1: Space Optimization and Planning
As described earlier, the first step focuses on analyzing your space in detail to optimize how it’s used:
I evaluate your brief and the project’s technical feasibility.
I draft three tailored 2D layouts that meet your needs and constraints.
This step lays the foundation for a strong project. If, at this point, you have everything you need to move forward, we can stop here. If you’d like to keep working together, we’ll move on to:
Step 2: Design & Style
Once the layout is finalized, we’ll tackle the design and style of your interior:
I create mood boards to confirm your aesthetic choices.
I hand-draw your future spaces for a personalized vision.
I sketch elevations for custom furniture and kitchen designs.
I select materials, colors, and furniture.
I compile a detailed shopping list to simplify your purchases.
Step 3 - Total renovation
The final phase is bringing your vision to life. If you choose this service, I’ll be by your side throughout the entire process, from demolition to move-in day, ensuring the results meet your expectations:
I draft a detailed contractor brief that outlines every requirement.
I help you select the right artisans.
I supervise the progress, keep communication open, and adapt to any surprises along the way.
And then, it's move-in day!
FAQs
How much does an interior designer in Geneva cost? or How much should I expect to spend on an interior designer?
Costs will depend on the complexity of your project and your goals. Hiring an interior designer is an investment in a space perfectly tailored to your needs. We are here to think of everything you might not have in mind and offer solutions you never imagined. That being said you can guestimate the cost of an interior designer from between 8% to 15% of the entire budget renovation. It can go up to 20% depending on the scale and design finishes you're looking for.
When should I hire an interior designer?
It’s best to involve an interior designer early—ideally from the moment you start your project or buy your property. This helps optimize decisions and avoid costly changes later.
Is hiring an interior designer worth it?
You don't have to if your budget is very tight. But if you’re unsure about the entire renovation process, want to make sure every square meter is optimized and comfortable, and overall think of all the things you don't want to deal with, or don't know how to deal with, then an interior designer brings professional expertise that ensures a harmonious, functional result, always with your budget in mind.
What does an interior designer do?
They analyze your needs, create custom plans, suggest materials and furniture, coordinate the work, and deliver a home that becomes your favorite place for years to come.
What are the benefits of hiring an interior designer?
Benefits include space optimization, professional aesthetics, time savings, and effective project management.
How do I choose the right interior designer? or How do I find the perfect interior designer?
To decide on an interior designer, make sure you understand how they work, ensure your visions align, and thoroughly review their proposal, you can read more about my thoughts on this here. Top-rated interior designers in Geneva will guide you through the process, turning your ideas into reality while respecting your constraints and budget.
If you're looking for more answers before reaching out I've written and answered 16 of the most frequently asked questions to interior designers in geneva right here.
Final Thoughts
Choosing one of the best-rated interior designers in Geneva is a big decision that directly impacts your living space. My personalized approach ensures a deep understanding of your needs, creative exploration of options, and a smooth, flexible process tailored to your lifestyle.
If you’re ready to transform your home into a unique space that reflects your style, feel free to reach out. Together, we’ll bring your vision to life.
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