Should I hire an interior designer or just use a builder?
If you're planning a renovation, extension, or building a home from scratch, you've probably asked yourself:
“Do I really need an interior designer? Isn’t the builder enough?”
It’s a totally fair question and one I hear from homeowners all the time.
Let’s unpack the difference between what a builder does and what an interior designer brings to the table (and why you might want both on your team, with the designer involved first).
What Does a Builder Do?
Builders are brilliant at turning plans into physical spaces. Their job is to manage construction, coordinate trades, and bring your home to life. But their focus is on the how, not always the what or why.
They're not the ones selecting your finishes, designing your kitchen layout, or making sure your ensuite has the perfect balance of storage and style.
What an Interior Designer Brings to the Table
An interior designer helps you make all of those important decisions before the build begins. We guide you through:
Creating a cohesive vision and style for your home
Designing functional layouts tailored to your lifestyle
Selecting all finishes, fixtures and fittings
Designing custom joinery
Procuring furniture that complements the space beautifully
But here’s what many homeowners don’t realise:
Involving a Designer Before Choosing a Builder is Key
Working with an interior designer before selecting your builder has a big impact on how smoothly your build runs, and how accurately it’s quoted.
At ML Interior Design, we provide:
Detailed interior drawings and elevations
Comprehensive finishes and materials schedules
Specifications for fixtures, fittings, joinery, and more
These documents give builders everything they need to quote your project accurately and confidently. No guesswork, no assumptions.
It also means:
You're not forced to make rushed decisions mid-build
There’s less back-and-forth during construction
Your builder isn't waiting on you to choose tiles or tapware at the last minute
You avoid unexpected variations that blow out your budget
Having everything designed and documented upfront allows your builder to focus on what they do best, delivering a high-quality build that runs smoothly and on time.
The Power of a Collaborative Team
It’s not about choosing between a builder or a designer. It’s about assembling the right team from the start.
As a designer, I often work alongside your builder and/or architect to make sure every element of the project is aligned, from layout and materials to styling and furnishings.
Together, we bring your dream home to life with less stress, better communication, and a far more enjoyable experience for you.
Ready to Make a Confident Start?
If you're thinking about renovating or building, I’d love to support you early in the process—before you even sign with a builder.
Book a complimentary 15-minute design call and let’s chat through your project, your goals, and how I can help you plan a beautiful, functional home, without the overwhelm.