The Ultimate Guide to Working with an Interior Designer in Southern California
Add a personal touch to your home with portraits as wall art.
Have you ever stared at your living room, and wondered why it just doesn’t feel right—even after rearranging the couch and end tables six times?
Or, spent hours scrolling Pinterest to figure out your next DIY project because your bedroom décor isn't coming together like the pretty inspo photos? Whew!
You aren’t alone! That’s why I chatted with Cheryl Ramirez, a freelance interior designer from Huntington Beach. I wanted to learn what interior designers do, the common decorating mistakes homeowners make, and how hiring a designer can save you money and time.
Whether you’ve considered hiring a professional or simply want design tips, you’re going to love this conversation!
Her answers made me reflect on my own home and decorating because I also mix different styles. Vintage meets farm, with a sprinkle of granny-chic.
I also included my thoughts after each question I asked her.
Okay, let’s get into our conversation.
Pink room decor anyone? Yes, please.
Interview Questions
1. What does an interior designer actually do that most people don’t realize?
“We are marriage counselors. Most people don’t realize you can easily combine design styles and give each partner what they want. And, still have the design be cohesive.”
I never thought about it that way. But, interior designers really are a form of marriage counselor. Heck, my husband and I have similar tastes but big design differences as well. As our home has grown and evolved, so have our styles.
For instance, he loves the tiki artist Doug Horne and as we collect his art, we’ll eventually need a tiki room to display them. Maybe not a whole room, but surely a wall or corner (open floor plan is hard). I’m not a big tiki fan, but I love his art and want to create a place to display it all. Maybe a tiki room is in the future.
2. What’s the first step when working with an interior designer?
“Interview more than one designer and ask to see their previous work. Ask a lot of questions! They work for you to make your vision come to life. So interview them and see if your personalities mesh.”
This makes a ton of sense to me. You need to see if their style will match your dream. It sounds silly because you assume designers can work with any style.
However, I bring this back to photography in a way- I’m not good at recreating every style that potential clients may want. My heart works well with people who can laugh at themselves and who love whimsical art. I cannot create sad beige photos because that’s not in my heart.
3. How do you work within a client’s budget without sacrificing quality?
“We should be able to work with any budget! That’s the adventure of design! I could be restricted to thrift stores and still pull a room together.”
I absolutely loved this answer!! Do you ever want to hire an interior designer, but hesitate because you think it’ll be crazy expensive? I know that’s my main reason. And, what if you don’t like what they’ve done, after? Eeeek!!!
But, hearing her say she could design a room, even if she was restricted to a thrift store, makes me light up. Heck, now I want to hire Cheryl to design a tiki room for my husband! Ha!
Home design shows are great, but don’t let them overwhelm you.
4. What are the most common mistakes homeowners make when decorating on their own?
“They lack experience and can get overwhelmed from watching a home design TV show. They think they can do what they see and then they destroy their house. Start small, maybe with some paint, and work your way up gradually.”
This is great advice! Starting with a fresh new paint color and going from there will make a room re-design seem less daunting. Then, perhaps, buy a throw pillow or two. Go slow.
This is how I decorate. Our first home didn’t have any wall art hung up for 3 years. Haha! I laughed, but at the time, I was crying inside. My husband and I couldn’t decide what style we wanted.
5. What’s a design trend you wish would go away?
“That there is a trend! Do what you like when you like it!! Shiplap isn’t for everyone and shades of beige aren't either!”
This is my favorite piece of advice. I have a blend of styles, as most people do. I love that she says you don’t have to follow trends. Shopping or thrifting for home decor, frames, a fun chair, or little knick knacks adds something special to your home.
And, make it personal. But, I love that she says find what you love and don’t follow trends. Unless, you like it of course.
Adding a series of images to a wall makes a huge impact.
6. Have you ever had to “rescue” a DIY project gone wrong? Yes. What happened?
“The client had a blue kitchen! I love blue. However, a blue plate is a bargain because nothing looks good on a blue plate. Not appetizing. Too much blue in the kitchen is the same! She painted all the walls blue, the fabric curtains were blue, and the chairs were blue. We came in, painted the walls white, and changed the curtains to white. And, all was edible again!”
“Here’s a story about a little blue house…. Da-ba-dee”… I’m singing the Blue song. Haha
I guess too much of a good thing, is not good. I didn’t realize blue plates were an issue though. I have blue dessert plates! Now, I need to rethink my plates. Just kidding! I think my four little floral plates are acceptable.
So, here’s my take on her answer to this one- do everything in moderation. The white walls and curtains probably helped to calm down all the blue. If you love a color, add throw pillows and a few decoration items to tie in your favorite color. What do you think?
The eye is drawn to the dark side table and light fixure.
7. What are the easiest ways to make a home feel more put together?
“Declutter. Add plants, and a few black items.”
Okay, I love these three simple tips. Plants really add something special to a space. I grew up in the 80s and my mom was/is a huge plant lover. We had plants everywhere, in every room. It’s refreshing to see they made a comeback instead of fake plants.
Decluttering is on everyone’s “to-do" list, I’m sure. It’s on mine. That being said, as you live in a home longer, you tend to collect more things. Dusting and cleaning are easier when you have fewer tchotchkes, too.
And, adding in a few black items! Yes! I love this. Black gives your eye a break from lots of color if you’re on the eclectic side. Or, if you’re on the sad beige side, it adds something interesting to draw the eye in.
Annette Marie Photography interviews an Interior Designer.
So, if you’ve been on the fence on whether to hire an interior designer or not, I hope this conversation gave you some insight! It really got me thinking.
Whether you’re planning a home reno or just want your space to feel a little more like you, an expert will take the stress out of decorating (and help you avoid those why-did-I-buy-this moments).
The bestest part? Interior designing isn’t just for Lifestyles Rich & Famous—it’s for anyone who wants their home to feel comfortable, functional, and fabulous!!
If you’re in Southern California, from the beach to the desert, check out Cheryl Ramirez for her expert guidance on bringing your vision to life!
Click here to learn more about working with Cheryl Ramirez
Click here to learn more about your Apply Valley Portrait Photographer!
Curious about What to wear for your Family Photos? Click here to read Family Photo Style Guide: How to Choose Outfits That Actually Work
As always, thanks for hanging out!
Cheers,
Annette
