If you are considering enhancing your closet space, then you are someone who already appreciates quality and value. You’ve worked hard for your money and want to add value to your home in a space that truly only you or the future buyer of your home will enjoy and appreciate. A quality designer can make a small space more functional or a large space more enjoyable and in the end, work hard to meet your needs. Here are 8 things to consider when looking for a great closet designer.
1. “Experience is the teacher of all things.”
Julius Caesar said it best – experience matters a great deal. This is true in closet design. Since closets vary is shape and size, finding someone with closet and cabinet design experience, specifically in construction, space preparation, clothing size variations and space needs, and design will set your project off on the right foot.
2. Credentials
Since the designer will sometimes not be present during the installation or construction of your new closets, you want a designer who works for or with a licensed shop with a solid reputation. You wouldn’t expect a business, such as a Pharmacy, to hire Pharmacists that are not licensed. These credentials demonstrate both a level of discipline, commitment to and knowledge of this type of work, but that the shop also conforms to local regulations.
3. Local Regulations
Before beginning any construction, you should always check with your local town and/or state’s construction laws. Some require permits before construction can begin, and others require proof of the construction company’s license.
4. Warranty
A closet designer and the shop they are affiliated with that offers a warranty, is the sign of a quality service provider. If they stand behind their work, you will likely be happier with the outcome, or in the worst case, you know they will make it right.
5. Will it fit?
It is critical that your closet designer measure not only the actual closet space, but also conduct an inventory of everything you want to store in the closet and cabinets to be constructed. This may include an inventory of items that are currently not in the space to be converted.
6. Plans and Blueprints
It’s great to work with a designer who can articulate his or her vision to you. But, you must have these plans in writing and a quality designer will present these plans to you in an easy to understand way that is also comprehensive and accurate. Most quality closet designers use AutoCAD computer programs that generate these plans.
7. The Dotted Line
A reputable contractor will offer you a contract. This document should include every detail from the materials that will be used, the finish of the materials (color, texture, quality, etc.), size of the materials and more. Make sure that you fully understand all of the details before you sign the dotted line.
8. A Buyer’s Market
You may have seen ads for commonly known closet systems and may already have one in mind, but you may want to consider getting 2-3 estimates from different shops and designers. Simply ensure your request is consistent, so you have comparable options to choose from.
It’s your money and your property, so take care to select the right designer. These tips will help make sure you enjoy the new enhancements to your space for years to