Is the Interior Design Business Dead?

Not dead but definitely shape shifting. The rise in the DIY culture has definitely cut into the decorating, design and remodel business. With easy access to big box stores people are doing their own redesigns, remodels and redecoration without the help of any paid expert advice. However not everyone is a do-it-yourselfer and some of those formerly known as DIY'ers have learned it is not easy and not always cheaper to take on a project without the help of experts. So while DIY is on the rise, I also think there is a place for the experts and that place will continue to grow as sustainable design continues to become the "only" way to remodel, redesign and even redecorate.

Here are some reasons why I think that the design business will survive and thrive amidst the DIYer's:

• Designers are used to doing projects on a budget and DIY projects can often go over budget.
• Some people simply don't have the time or energy to do it themselves.
• Interior designers remove the stress of remodeling and redecorating.
• Horror stories about DIY projects gone terribly wrong, code violations, or products failing immediately require a call to experts to make it all better.
• Interior designers recommend the most durable products and materials that fit within your budget.
• Homeowners that have bought stuff that doesn't fit and that they can't return.
• Interior designers can reuse your stuff and make it look like new.
• Interior designers can create healthier spaces by using less toxic products of which the average DIYer has no knowledge.
• A designer will create a space that incorporates things you love and have collected over time rather than just assembling a bunch of new stuff.
• Interior designers can create a room that serves multiple purposes so it doesn't look like a jumbled mess.
• A few hours of designer time can cost the same as your cleaning lady and save you a lot of money in the future.
• A room expertly designed can make you smile every time you walk into it. 

As the ants come marching home again or maybe they have taken permanent residence, you may want to consider using natural solutions instead of toxic ones that can harm animals, birds or our water supply. You probably have most of what you need in your home right now. Since Equal is on the list, you may want to reconsider whether you also want it in your morning coffee or tea.