What are the Benefits of Working with an Interior Designer?

Home & Design Magazine, the elite luxury shelter magazine in the Washington, DC area, asked me to be a "Pro" for their Sourcebook 2011. This is one my favorite magazines so it was quite an honor.

Thank you Home & Design for considering my an expert and sharing my thoughts on "What are the Benefits of Working with a Interior Designer?" Here was my full answer (in the amount of words I was able to :-)

The benefits of working with a designer are many. First, designers are trained to develop the design concept encompassing both aesthetics and functionality; to cull it from the client’s heart & mind, interpreting their vision bringing it to life. Second, costly mistakes are avoided as palettes, furnishings, fabric, etc. are specified from an organized plan; not only a space plan but an overall plan that puts all the pieces of the puzzle together. Third is the service designers provide from concept to completion. Clients are able to relax and leave the labor to the design team.

This is a question that arises time and time again and that people really do ponder. It is not just about style. It is also about luxury, comfort, security, peace of mind, quality, understanding the principles and elements of fantastic design, service... the list can go on and on.

Tell me ~ what are some of the reasons you would use or recommend using an interior designer?