Tips

First meeting with an interior designer: 12 questions to be ready for

Arch. Katerina Taneva4 November 20264 min read
In short

For your first meeting with an interior designer, prepare: a plan or photos of the property, the approximate floor area, photos of interiors you like (and ones you don't), a budget range and the desired timeline. Think about your lifestyle – who lives in the home, how much you cook, whether you work from home, whether you have pets. The clearer the answers, the more accurate the concept will be.

The first meeting is the most important part of the whole project. It is where we get to know each other, understand what you are looking for and judge whether we are the right team for you. It is free of obligation – at our showroom in Varna or online. Here is how to make the most of it.

Meeting table at the showroom with material samples and a layout on a laptop
At the first meeting we talk about you, the property and your lifestyle.

What to bring to the first meeting

  • A plan of the property – an architectural plan, a sketch or at least photos and dimensions.
  • Photos of the property – all rooms, the windows, the views.
  • Inspiration – images from Pinterest, Instagram or magazines with interiors you like.
  • Anti-inspiration – things you definitely don't want. This often helps even more.
  • A list of furnitureyou want to keep.
  • A budget range – even an approximate one.

12 questions we will ask you

About the property

  1. What kind of property is it – apartment, house, office? What is the floor area?
  2. What stage is it at – new build, plastered, or for renovation?
  3. Is there something you definitely want to change – a wall, the bathroom, the kitchen?

About your lifestyle

  1. Who lives in the home – how many people, children, pets?
  2. How often do you cook and have guests?
  3. Do you work from home? Do you need a study?
  4. How much storage do you need – clothes, books, sports, hobbies?
  5. What don't you like about your current home?

About the style

  1. What do you want to feel when you come home?
  2. A light or darker interior? Warm or cooler tones?

About the framework

  1. What budget do you have in mind for the renovation and furnishing?
  2. When do you want to move in?
Apartment layout sketch with material samples
At the very first meeting we sketch the possible layouts.

Questions you should ask

  • What exactly does the project include – visualisations, working drawings, specifications?
  • How many revisions are included?
  • How long does each stage take?
  • How is the price determined? See also how much interior design costs.
  • Do you offer author supervision?
  • Do you work with trusted contractors and custom furniture makers?
  • Can I see completed projects similar to mine? See DOMO's projects.

What happens after the meeting

  1. Quote – with scope, stages, timelines and price.
  2. Contract – clearly described commitments on both sides.
  3. Site survey and measurement of the property.
  4. Layout and concept – the first presentation.
  5. 3D visualisations and working design.

The whole journey is described in detail on the page How we work.

Moodboard with material samples and a living room visualisation
After the meeting, ideas become a concept and a moodboard.
“The best projects start with an honest conversation. The more we know about you, the more the home will resemble you.” – Arch. Katerina Taneva

Frequently asked questions

Is the first meeting paid?

The first meeting with DOMO is free of obligation – at our showroom in Varna or online.

Do I need a plan of the property?

It is not required, but it helps. If you don't have one, photos and approximate dimensions are enough for the first meeting.

Do I need to know what style I want?

No. Photos of interiors you like or dislike are enough – the style becomes clear together.

How long does the first meeting last?

Usually about an hour – enough to understand the task and answer your questions.

Can the meeting be online?

Yes. We work with clients across Bulgaria and many meetings take place online.

Ready for the first meeting? Choose a convenient time at the showroom or online.

Book a consultation
Arch. Katerina Taneva
Arch. Katerina TanevaArchitect and founder of DOMO. Member of the Chamber of Architects in Bulgaria, with more than 15 years of practice and 150+ completed projects.
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+359 895 876 456 office@domodesign.bg Showroom: Varna, 133 Knyaz Boris I Blvd.
  • — Every enquiry is reviewed personally by Arch. Katerina Taneva
  • — First meeting at our showroom in Varna or online
  • — A clear quote by stages, with no hidden costs
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