5 Interior Design Myths You'll be Happy to See Debunked

When you picture an interior designer’s day, does it involve picking out pretty fabrics, coordinating colors, and shopping in sexy Louboutins?

You wouldn’t be alone in thinking this. We hear comments like these allllll the time. (I bet you encounter funny misconceptions about your line of work, too!)

Although I can’t speak for every designer’s footwear, I can tell you that the decorative “fun stuff” part of design is a small percentage of what we actually do… and that stilettos would certainly make the job more challenging… most days. 😉

So what do designers actually do? We’re debunking the myth below, along with a few others that could transform how you see interior design…

Myth 1. Interior design is only for the wealthy

In reality, most designers offer a wide range of services, which would set you on the right track even if you’re not in the market for full service design.

That said, it’s also worth mentioning that design is a professional service, just like hiring an attorney or an accountant. You could certainly defend yourself in court or do your own taxes, but your chances of success are 100x better if you hire a professional to ensure the best outcome.

For example, we consistently go into people’s homes and find furniture that doesn’t fit properly or causes a lack of cohesion. Many of these purchases get consigned or donated when the homeowner realizes the potential of the room when designed properly.

Purchases like these are costly mistakes that could otherwise have been invested in a design professional to get it right the first time — and to get that finished look very few people outside the field can do on their own.

Myth 2. Interior designers are only involved in your home’s interior

Yes, interior designers are responsible for designing all aspects of your interior, but remember, everything is connected in a home. That includes designing your outdoor living spaces. As part of the home, it should ALL feel cohesive.

We also have the challenge of getting your furnishings from the outside world into your home (measuring is crucial), and we take pride in making sure the interior reflects well on the exterior.

For example, how are window treatments selections going to affect curb appeal? Do the interior and exterior feel cohesive, or do they appear to be two different homes?

We look at every piece of the puzzle and stay one step ahead.

Myth 3. Interior designers pick out pretty things all day

Yes, interior design can be loads of fun, but as I mentioned above, there’s a big misconception that we spend all our time picking out pretty things. In reality, the decorative “fun stuff” that most people imagine makes up only 10-20% of our time.

The other 80-90% of what we do at Blakely is project management and the behind-the-scenes side of design.

This includes calculating sizes for furnishings, creating technical drawings, managing the project and its contractors, placing product orders, tracking and receiving shipments, quality testing… the list goes on.

Myth 4. Designers can’t design in your style

Designers are trained in a wide diversity of design styles, methods of personalization, product customization (we can design tables, consoles, etc. if you need something specific), color, and more. But talent isn’t how we create a space with authenticity…

…it’s communication.

It’s the relationship between the designer and the homeowners. It’s the transparency and trust. Which is why we prioritize deep, authentic relationships with our clients. We have to know you, your style, and your lifestyle before we can design a home that truly speaks to your soul.

That said, it’s worth finding a designer whose portfolio resonates with you. You’ll still get a personal result, but if their zone of genius aligns with your ideal aesthetic, that’s a smart and beautiful match.

Myth 5. A well-designed interior isn’t essential

It’s no longer a secret, our environments influence how we feel, behave, live, and relate to one another. The right colors can enhance your mood. Functionality can keep your daily routine moving smoothly. The right space can uplift, inspire, heal, or energize you…

…and we spend the majority of our lives in our homes. (Compare that to a car, which many people like to invest in but where they only spend a fraction of their time!) Our home should be a place that makes us happy and proud, confident and living our boldest, most colorful lives.

Interior design might not be an essential on everyone’s list, but we do believe that everyone can benefit from it. And that’s pretty powerful, don’t you think?