What Couples Should Discuss Before Hiring an Interior Designer

The famous artist couple Frida and Diego lived and worked in two different houses separated by a bridge.

Embarking on an interior design project as a couple can be an exciting opportunity to create a space you both love, but it can also become a major source of stress if you’re not on the same page.

Differing tastes, budget disagreements, and clashing priorities can lead to frustration and costly mistakes. In the worst-case scenario, it can strain your relationship, turning what should be an enjoyable, creative process into a source of resentment.

Our owner and principal designer Gretchen Rivera has worked with many clients where partners or spouses had very different ideas about design. She has successfully helped couples navigate these challenges and find common ground. We asked her about what couples need to discuss before hiring an interior designer. Here’s what she had to say:

Q: How can couples figure out their shared goals for a space?

Gretchen: Before hiring a designer, couples should sit down and discuss how they want the space to function and feel. Establishing a clear purpose, vibe and function for the space will help guide the designer’s approach.

Q: How should couples determine their budget for a design project? 

Gretchen: One of the most important topics to discuss is the budget. Be honest about what you’re comfortable spending and whether you’ll remodel the space in stages or all at once. A good designer can work with your budget, but having a clear financial framework from the start ensures you stay realistic and avoid unexpected costs that could cause stress.

Q: What homework should couples do before starting a design project? 

Gretchen: Before starting, gather inspiration together—look at magazines, make Pinterest boards, or visit showrooms—to see what resonates with both of you. A good designer can skillfully distill and blend styles into a cohesive look, but understanding each other’s preferences beforehand makes the process much smoother and more enjoyable.

Q: What mindset should couples have when starting a home design project? 

Gretchen: A successful design project requires a very open mind and a willingness to compromise. No two people have identical tastes, and it’s important to approach the process with flexibility. Rather than seeing the project as “winning” or “losing” design battles, think of it as a creative collaboration where both of your perspectives contribute to something even better than either of you could have envisioned alone. Trust your designer to help find a balance and offer solutions that blend your styles. 

Q: How can couples define must-haves and deal-breakers? 

Gretchen: Defining must-have elements and deal-breakers early on can prevent conflicts down the road. If one of you insists on a large sectional sofa, while the other prioritizes a small, sleek furniture those details need to be discussed upfront. The same goes for materials—if sustainability is a priority, make that clear before making selections. Likewise, if one person strongly dislikes a particular color, pattern, or furniture style, communicate that early. Being transparent about these preferences allows the designer to create a space that reflects both of your tastes in a cohesive way.

Q: What should couples do if one partner has bad/no taste?

Gretchen: Design is subjective, and what one person sees as “bad taste” might just be a different aesthetic or cultural preference. Instead of dismissing your partner’s style outright, try to understand what they like about certain pieces. If their taste leans toward oversized recliners, neon signs, and sports memorabilia, don’t panic—there’s a way to elevate the look while still respecting their preferences. Identify the core elements they love—whether it’s comfort, a casual vibe, or nostalgia—and find alternatives. For example, a sleek, high-quality lounge chair can replace a bulky recliner, and framed artwork can subtly nod to their favorite hobbies instead of neon signs. If compromise seems impossible, again, trust your interior designer to bridge the gap and create a space that reflects both of your styles.

Q: How can couples from different cultural backgrounds merge their design preferences?

Gretchen: Cultural influences often shape how we see beauty, comfort, and function in a home. The key to merging different design aesthetics is to identify elements that are meaningful to each person and find a way to incorporate them cohesively. Start by discussing what aspects of your cultural upbringing feel most important—whether it’s specific materials, or traditional furniture styles. A good designer can blend these influences to create a look that honors both backgrounds.

Q: How involved should each partner be in the design process? 

Gretchen: Not every couple wants the same level of involvement in the design process. Some enjoy being hands-on, selecting every detail from fabric swatches to light fixtures, while others prefer to step back and let the designer take the lead. I've worked on projects where one person makes all the design choices, and the other partner is fine with not being involved.

So definitely, discuss how much time and energy you each want to dedicate to the project. Will you both attend design meetings, or will one person handle most of the decisions? A good designer can adapt to your preferred level of involvement, but knowing what to expect will help prevent misunderstandings.

Q: How should couples manage expectations about the project’s timeline for completion?
Gretchen: Timelines can significantly impact a design project, so couples should discuss their expectations in advance. Are you hoping to complete everything in a few months, or are you comfortable with a phased approach? Consider any upcoming life events that might affect the schedule, such as travel, visits by friends or families, or preparing for a baby. Keep in mind that most custom pieces have long lead times, and unexpected delays outside of your designer’s control frequently happen. 

Q: How should couples handle disagreements during the design process? 

Gretchen: It’s essential to agree on a way to handle disagreements. Will you take turns making decisions, or will you rely on the designer for tie-breaking votes? Sometimes, taking a step back and reassessing priorities can help resolve disputes. It’s also helpful to focus on the bigger picture—remember that the goal is to create a space that both of you will love. Being open to compromise and trusting your designer’s expertise can make the process far more enjoyable. 

Are you and your partner ready to transform your space but need expert guidance? Schedule a consultation with us today. We have years of experience helping couples merge their styles seamlessly to create a home that reflects both partners' personalities while ensuring a stress-free design process. Contact us today to get started!