What’s your type?
Whether you prefer a simple, unfussy space or a gorgeously styled up abode, there's an interior professional for everyone. But with so many interior firms out there, how do you even start selecting the right one?
As it turns out, not all IDs are made equal. In fact, there are 5 types of interior firms in Singapore - each different in terms of their design, services, and budget. Here, we'll help you decode what are they, and which types would be best for your needs.
1. Contractor
Interior Designer: DS 2000 Interior & Design
If there ever was a motto for contractors, it would be, “Ask and you shall receive”. More a builder than a designer, most contractors can help you with the construction of your interior fixtures and other renovation treatments; think built-in carpentry, toilets to wiring or flooring.
Interior Designer: DS 2000 Interior & Design
But, they can’t really help you design a fancy, Scandinavian style abode, nor do spatial planning and manage your whole renovation. A lot of coordination on your part will have to be done.
Interior Designer: DS 2000 Interior & Design
On the bright side, they are good at listening, though, and will do based on what you want them to do. They are also open to doing all sorts of projects, be it extensive ones or small alterations like the changing of tiles.
Perfect For
- Experienced homeowners with an interior design background and can coordinate an entire renovation.
- Homeowners who just want something simple and unfussy.
- Those looking to do only small interior changes.
2. Contractor Interior Designers
Interior Designer: CAD Associates
While contractors aren’t really interior professionals per se, a contractor ID firm does offer the usual designing, 3D-layout, planning and project management services to homeowners on top of managing its own contracting arm.
Interior Designer: CAD Associates
A plus point? Contractor IDs have the resources and connections on hand (electricians, labour, plumbers) to carry out renovation works. However, these interior firms are often more knowledgeable in construction methods than actual design. So, if you want something fuss-free but well made, contractor IDs are the go-tos.
Perfect For
- Practical homeowners who prefer function over form.
- Homeowners who also want something simple, but have no time to oversee works
3. Interior Designers
Interior Designer: Ciseern
Bringing a mix of construction knowledge with a flair for aesthetic design, interior firms run the gamut in terms of renovation services, from interior design, spatial planning, project management to even furniture shopping.
Interior Designer: Ciseern
In fact, two types of interior firms exist on a spectrum. On one end, there are big-brand interior firms, often armed with an army of designers, a wealth of experience and a portfolio to match. On the other, there are the design-centric agencies that prefer to focus on creating unique, inventive spaces that you’ll probably see in a magazine.
Interior Designer: The Scientist
Of course, do note that big-brand IDs often have the manpower for taking in all sorts of projects, while boutique IDs are often small scale or one-man-shows. As a result, design-centric IDs can be selective of which project to work on, and would often choose to work with those they feel are a good ‘fit’ with the brand.
Perfect For
- Homeowners who want a space that looks more made-up than bare bones.
- Those looking for a right mix of practicality, style and quality.
- Style-centric individuals who need a professional that understands their tastes and handles the practical aspects of renovation.
4. Interior Stylists
Interior Stylist: Arete Culture
If you like the impeccably decorated, ‘ang-moh’ look of homes on Pinterest - look no further than the interior stylist. Taking into consideration your lifestyle, personality and needs, interior stylists work with furniture, decor pieces and other soft furnishings to create a personalised space.
Interior Stylist: Arete Culture
Interior Designer: Mr Shopper Studio
That doesn’t mean they can’t do the technical stuff - if needed, interior stylists can also help to oversee a renovation, work with sub-contractors to design built-ins and plan out your space.
Perfect For
- Homeowners who prefer decorating a home with loose furnishings.
- People who like that ornamented, ‘Pinterest-worthy’ look
- Individuals who like their spaces to tell a ‘story’ or project their personality, with a stylish touch.
5. Architect
Architect: HYLA Architects
A different league from interior designers/contractors - and rightfully so - architects literally ‘build’ spaces from the ground up. That includes designing a home’s structure (both internal and external), spatial planning and construction.
Architect: HYLA Architects
Usually, architects handle more bigger-scale projects like landed properties, where the structure of a space can be customised and worked around. But of course, some architects also work on interiors - albeit mainly handling the layout or built-ins.
Perfect For
- Homeowners with landed houses,
- Those with extensive interior works that may require structural changes or built-ins.
Let us help you find the perfect interior professional
Interior Designer: The Scientist
With over 200 interior firms under our belt - we know a thing or two about matching you with the right professional. Simply tell us about your style, budget and house type, and we will recommend you 5 interior firms that best suit your requirements.
As an added bonus, every request/recommendation made through Qanvast will be covered under our Guarantee, up to $50,000. Not satisfied? Let us know, and we can help you reach out to a few more.