As an interior designer, I have the pleasure of working with many different clients. They comprise a wide range of backgrounds, from single clients to families, from those with traditional taste to modern, and from condo owners to homeowners. Despite these differences, they often have one thing in common: during our initial conversations, they say something along the lines of “we’ve been talking about doing this project for years”. By the end of our intake meeting, I can often feel a shift in the client’s mood as they get truly excited at the prospect of finally getting things moved forward. Why is that?

It’s because unfinished home projects can weigh you down psychologically and use up valuable mental energy. Walking into a room that has been a “someday” project for a long time can stir up negative emotions. Saturdays spent at tile stores or sifting through paint swatches would often be better spent on other things like self-care, hobbies, or family time.

Based on interactions with my clients, there are five common reasons when it’s a smart idea to bring in a professional interior designer for help when a home project hasn’t really moved forward or is going at a snail’s pace. An experienced designer is often the key to navigating these common dilemmas.

You have analysis paralysis or differing opinions – Today’s online marketplace offers thousands of options for light fixtures, flooring, furniture and more. Sometimes having too many options is not a good thing and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. An experienced designer can quickly filter out the less-than-ideal options and present a curated selection of items or materials that meet your style and functional goals. Similarly, when there are two decision makers who don’t see eye-to-eye on design direction, a professional can provide an unbiased perspective and propose unique, unexpected solutions that are both beautiful and practical.

You have difficulty with visualization – 3D design has recently exploded in popularity because imagining in your mind what your space might look like once it’s remodeled is a real challenge. Inspiration photos can only go so far and don’t directly translate to your actual space. Today’s technology makes it simple to redesign a space virtually and clients are often extremely happy with the results. Clients who engage 3D design services report a significant decrease in stress during the planning phase and are often astounded at how the final outcome matches the computer-generated renderings.

You’re simply too busy – A common reason that projects don’t get off the ground is the fast pace at which modern life often moves. A quick phone call to a design professional can help set the process in motion, however, and takes the pressure off you to drive the project. Your designer can help you set a target date for each phase of design and implementation and you’ll have the assurance that your project is finally in motion and in the hands of a professional.

You hesitate because of project cost – Home remodeling projects often come with big price tags. Even relatively simple room redecorating projects can add up quickly. Something as simple as a bathroom faucet comes in a very wide range of prices and it’s hard to know when it’s worth spending the extra money on a more expensive fixture. Designers are professionals at shopping for these items and have extensive knowledge of brands and the durability, finish, and quality of their products. Because of this, you can often end up saving money by working with a design professional through thoughtful sourcing.

You feel overwhelmed – Clients often come to me when they know they want to change up their space but simply don’t know where to start. Many of today’s homes have spaces that are open and connected to other rooms which makes remodeling difficult because it starts a domino effect. For example, do you remodel the kitchen but not the family room that it opens to? What’s the best way to approach changing flooring where one material meets another? Should you paint the walls first or last? An interior designer is a great resource for when you feel uncertainty and are overwhelmed. A seasoned designer has the ability to quickly determine the best approach based on your design goals and set you on the path to completion.

Enlisting the help of a professional interior designer is a smart move that can help keep your sanity and relationships intact while simultaneously achieving the space you’ve always dreamed of.