Avoid Costly Mistakes: How to Find the Right Interior Stylist for Your Home

Making a choice as to which stylist you will go with can be an overwhelming and daunting task. We get it. This is why many people put their project on the backburner. With so many options out there, how do you find the perfect fit? Choosing the right interior stylist will save you from making costly mistakes. And the right one will help you enjoy transforming your space into something functional, stylish and uniquely yours!

Here are some key things to consider when you are wanting to choose an interior stylist who understands your vision and can bring it to life... 

Understand Your Needs and Style 

Before you start searching for an interior stylist, take a moment to think about what you truly want. Are you looking to refresh a single room or to get your property looking beautiful can so you get the best price on the market? Do you prefer a minimalist, modern aesthetic or do you prefer a more mid-century interior style? Look at whether a particular interior stylist has done projects in homes like yours. Having a clear idea of your needs and what style you like most will help you narrow down your search and make sure you find a stylist who will understand your vision and be great at bringing it to life.  

Look at Their Portfolio 

A stylist’s portfolio is like a window into how their creative mind works. Looking over their past projects will give you an idea of their expertise, how versatile their work is and the way they approach things. Pay attention to the details—such as how they use colour, textures. You want someone who loves to consider all the big and small things, from furniture to artwork and decor. Does some of their work resonate with your personal style? If you see projects that inspire you, that’s a great sign they could be the right match for you and your space. 

Read Client Reviews and Testimonials 

Image: Essencia Interiors

What better way to find out an interior stylist’s capabilities than through the words of their past clients? How much do they include in their packages? Are they known for just ticking the boxes or are they known for going above and beyond and over-delivering? Reviews and testimonials can also give you an idea as to how well an interior stylist listens and communicates with their clients. Are they known for being friendly, professional and efficient? Are they known for staying within budget and timelines? Look for feedback that shows they truly listen, solve problems, think out-of-the-box and leave their clients thrilled after a job well done! 

Note: if they have many happy clients and are known for going the extra mile, it’s a sure sign they are not only fantastic at what they do, they also love what they do! This means you’ve found someone who will find your project a joy to put their best work into, rather than someone who will just put in a standard effort. 

Consider Their Process and Approach 

Some offer full-service design, handling everything from an onsite consultation to start to ordering furniture, rugs, lamps and everything else – and then styling the space... while others may provide e-design services for a more flexible and remote approach that enables their clients to save dollars through DIY. Every interior stylist has a unique process when working with clients. Understanding each interior stylist’s process will help you to know if their way of working matches your needs and budget. Ask questions like: 

• How do they begin the design/styling process? 

• Do they offer mood boards before finalising a design? 

• How much will they ask for your feedback throughout the process as they work towards bringing all the elements together and putting together a Design Plan for you?  
  

Communication is Key 

A good interior stylist should be an excellent listener. They should take the time to understand your lifestyle, preferences and expectations. During your first communication with them, pay attention to how well they listen and whether they ask thoughtful questions. Good communication ensures a smooth collaboration and helps avoid there being any misunderstandings down the line.  

No design project goes exactly as planned—well, not usually! Challenges can pop up. A great stylist should be adaptable, solution-oriented and able to handle hiccups with a calm, professional vibe. We love hearing about interior designers and stylists who thrive in the ability to embrace challenges and find creative solutions for their clients! This gives a client a stress-free experience and a wonderful space they’ll look forward to enjoying. 

Budget and Pricing Transparency 

Interior styling should feel exciting, not stressful—especially when it comes to your budget! Make sure you discuss pricing early on and understand exactly what’s included in their services. Some stylists charge a flat fee, while others work on an hourly basis. Being upfront about your budget will help you and your stylist create a plan that meets your needs without unexpected surprises. Find out exactly what is included in their package with you. If you aren’t sure exactly what something is, such as a ‘Designer Report’, make sure you ask. At the end of the day, interior designers and stylists are humans who may forget that not everyone automatically knows what every term means!

Note: A select few may be open to you sending them photos down the track of your space. They might also be open to you asking them for additional feedback about your space later on, but many won’t due to the extra time this might take them to respond. If they welcome this, it’s a sure sign they find it a pleasure to see their clients doing well and achieving beautiful, life-changing spaces.

Look for a Personal Connection 

Your home is a deeply personal space and working with an interior stylist should feel comfortable and enjoyable. After all, you are literally bringing them into your haven where you and loved ones live. Yes, while skills and expertise are really important, you should also feel a natural, human connection with them. A stylist who you click with and who ‘gets you’ will be able to create a plan for your space that truly reflects who you are. 

Check Their Industry Experience and Network 

Experienced interior stylists often have strong connections with suppliers, tradespeople and furniture brands. This can give you a huge advantage when looking for unique pieces, finding the best deals, or ensuring high-quality craftsmanship. Ask them what shops they like to source from and whether they can help you access exclusive products or services. 

Anica, Founder of Essencia Interiors

AND…

At the end of the day, go with your gut. If a stylist’s work speaks to you, their process makes sense and you feel like you click, they’re likely the right fit. Finding the right interior stylist is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about collaboration, trust and creating a space that feels like home. By considering their portfolio, process, communication style and overall personality, you can find a stylist who will understand your needs and help turn your space into something you’ll love. 

Ready to transform your home? Our expert team at Essencia Interiors is here to help! Get in touch today to see whether we are a good fit. PS and remember to ask the important questions!