Is it tacky to ask a designer what something will cost?

Post by Annsley Strong

Until the 19th century, Interior Design was a luxury reserved for royalty and the rich. While it has long since become a trend for the masses, it can still present a snobby, elite-only, money-is-a-tacky-subject side. I think people may still feel there is a stigma in asking a designer what something will cost.

"Is it tacky to ask a designer what something will cost?"

The short answer: No. The longer answer: Vanderbilt used to say, “If you
have to ask ‘how much’, you can’t afford it.” That notion has persisted
because it assumes interior design is only for the rich. Glossy magazines
reinforce that. What these fail to address is the difference between design and
execution. Good design is accessible through a good designer. The cost of
execution is client-driven. Good taste is accessible at multiple cost points.

Interview several designers based on their work, recommendations, location,
personality, sense of humor, age, maturity, lack of maturity, fun quotient,
whatever attracts you. If you consistently like all designs, then choose your
designer based on how much fun you will have together and how honest your
feedback will be. Your executed design will be a reflection of both of these
and you will walk into your co-created space reminded that it speaks to you
and not to your designer alone.