Cheap Interior Design Ideas in Manhattan?

March 22, 2008 3:58 PM

I am clueless about interior design. I see lots of things I like-- but I have no idea how to get my apartment from here to there. It may require renovation. I definitely need artwork. And shelves. Lots of shelves. So, I'm wondering how much would a consultation with an interior designer cost in Manhattan and does anyone have any recommendations and how do I choose one?
posted by Maias to home & garden (5 answers total)

Craigslist New York has some listings under services offered for interior designers looking to build their portfolio. You have to weed through some spam there, but you may be able to find a good lead on a cheap designer. Examples: 1, 2, 3, 4.
posted by nitsuj at 6:04 PM on March 22, 2008

You know, you could find a friend whose sense of decorating style you admire and hire him. Make sure he knows you aren't looking to copy him, though. Maybe you could tour his apartment and point out some things you like about it -- then ask him what he was thinking or what he looks for when he sees an empty space. This person already knows you and what kinds of things you like in general. That's a big head start the professional designer doesn't have. However, renovation of a structural nature does take a pro. Maybe someone else here can help with that. Although, I still imagine your friend could assist with some general concepts of how to use the space.
posted by Lockjaw at 6:05 PM on March 22, 2008

Interior refiners are generally less expensive. You can hire one for a day. If you have some furniture, they can help you use what you have, fill in the gaps, recommend paint colors, and improve your space for a little bit of money. Renovations would probably be out of their scope, although I think many refiners are interior designers.

You could always copy a room that you admire from a magazine or catalog. Throw in a couple accessories that are personal to you and it's a home.

As far as artwork goes I would advise not to rush it. Pick up pieces here and there at art shows and galleries, even prints from chain stores that appeal to you. I've bought things in a hurry just to fill a space and I'm not really satisfied with them and regret the purchase.

I'll give you some unsolicited advice. Go with a traditional style. Function and comfort are also very important. All of your furniture should be approachable and comfortable. Traditional never goes out of style. I have a modern/contemporary living room and I like it. But, my modern things will look dated sooner than classic, timeless furniture shapes and colors. Traditional doesn't have to be boring. Look at a copy of House Beautiful. They always have a few spreads that lean toward the traditional.
posted by LoriFLA at 6:44 PM on March 22, 2008 [2 favorites]

Check out the book Apartment Therapy. It'll teach you a bit and it's only $12.
posted by dobbs at 9:02 PM on March 22, 2008

I'll give you some unsolicited advice. Go with a traditional style. Function and comfort are also very important. All of your furniture should be approachable and comfortable. Traditional never goes out of style. I have a modern/contemporary living room and I like it. But, my modern things will look dated sooner than classic, timeless furniture shapes and colors.

I would have to disagree. When you think of iconic modern furniture designed by Eames, Jacobsen, Saarinen, etc., they were almsot all designed over 50 years ago, and yet probably will never go out of style.
posted by gyc at 10:16 PM on March 22, 2008