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As a former designer that used to work with other designers, I have come to realize that designers almost need continuing education when it comes to floors. What I mean by that is, times change and with it comes change in technology. Not staying on top of that technology can cause a designer to make an expensive mistake that costs them their reputation.
Examples are:
- Finishes on Products- New finishes are available that need to be maintained differently from older finishes.
- Installation Techniques- These techniques are being updated and improved all the time. Knowing what is most current will keep your clients happy and satisfied. Suggesting an improper technique can cost you a client.
- Colors and Styles- Colors and styles change as often as the fashion industry. Keeping up with these trends will help ensure that your current designs are in fact current.
- Discontinuation of products- We all have our favorites. There is nothing worse than selling a client your very favorite product, designing a space around it, only to find out that it is discontinued.
Your flooring consultant should keep you informed of new products, new trends, discontinued products and supervise installation techniques, but in reality, this doesn’t always happen. Staying on top of new flooring trends will keep your designs current and your customer satisfaction rate high. Use the tools and the advice on the WFCA site to help with those issues in conjunction with a local retailer.
No Responses to “Tips and Hints for Interior Designers”
August 14th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Isn’t that the truth?! I can’t believe the differences in the floor finishes from even five years ago, never mind twenty years ago.
Keeping up is vital, especially with care and maintenance. This means also updating and informing housecleaning folks (if you have them.) Some of their products are too harsh for the new floors.
Good post!
July 29th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
We’ve been dreaming of a new floor for years. I want a wood floor, but my husband is kind of biased toward vinyl. Why, I have no idea.
Thanks for the great tips!
BTW, it was so great to meet you at BlogHerCon this year!