When most people think about hiring an interior designer, they picture the fun stuff — paint charts, fabric samples, colour palettes.
But truthfully?
Some of the most important design decisions happen long before any of that.
This week, I had a consultation with Kelly, who’s lived in her home for 15 years.
Now that her children are older, she’s planning a full renovation - not just updating finishes, but rethinking how the whole house functions and flows now life has changed.
We talked about radiator placement, doorways, lighting, furniture layout… even plug sockets.
And it’s all happening before the builders arrive.
Why? Because getting these decisions right early saves a huge amount of stress (and cost) later.
Why bringing in a designer early really matters:
1. Your layout should reflect how you live - not just what fits on a floorplan.
Architects focus on structure.
Designers look at how you’ll use the space - where the bed goes, where you’ll put the TV, how traffic flows through the kitchen.
Every doorway, window and alcove should support your lifestyle.
2. Storage isn’t a luxury - it’s essential.
It’s one of the top things people regret not planning for.
Built-in storage, hidden cupboards, clever solutions that suit your daily routines - these all need to be considered before the walls go up.
It’s not just about “where will it all go?”
It’s about creating calm, clutter-free spaces that feel good to live in.
3. Radiators and plug sockets can make or break a room.
Small details with big impact.
If your radiators end up where your wardrobe or sofa needs to go, you’ve lost valuable space. Check out this blog about a fab hack of painting your radiators to match your walls.
Same goes for plug sockets - planning around your actual furniture layout avoids annoying (and costly) rewiring later.
4. Lighting should be planned, not patched in.
Great lighting brings a room to life.
We plan for natural light, task lighting, mood lighting and feature fittings - all based on how you’ll actually use the room.
This helps avoid harsh overheads or dark corners you’ll regret later.
One of my favourite go to lighting shops with £10 off has to be Pooky!
5. Every change gets more expensive once the build starts.
Want to move a door on paper? Easy.
Want to move a door once it’s been built? That’s a costly delay.
When a designer is involved from the beginning, everything works better together — and your project runs more smoothly.
What’s the takeaway?
Interior design isn’t just about colour charts and styling shelves.
It’s about planning a home that supports the way you live - from layout and lighting to storage and sockets.
And those conversations?
They need to happen before the first wall goes up.
If you’re planning a renovation (or even just dreaming about one), this is the perfect time to get clear on what you want - and how to make it happen.
🎉 Ready to feel more confident with your home design decisions?
Join the Happy Home Hub – my monthly membership for homeowners and property developers who want expert support, simple tips and fresh inspiration to create a home they love or that sells.
Inside the Hub, you’ll:
Get practical advice and answers to your questions
Learn how to make your space work for you
Feel more confident with every decision
👉 Find out more and join the Happy Home Hub here
Because the best homes aren’t just beautiful.
They’re thoughtful, functional – and built around you.
