If you’re choosing between a design company and an independent interior designer in Nairobi, compare who will do your work and who will answer when the project changes.
What an independent designer may offer
An independent professional might lead the design personally and collaborate with contractors or consultants when needed. Ask who will prepare the drawings, whether support is available during installation and what happens if the designer is unavailable. Independence does not necessarily mean a small project or a limited service.
What to ask a company
A company may have a larger team or combine design, procurement and execution. Find out who will be responsible for your account, who signs off decisions and whether work will be subcontracted. Ask to meet the person who will lead the project, rather than assessing only the sales presentation.
Compare responsibilities, not labels
Give both providers the same brief and request a written breakdown of design deliverables, site visits, contractor coordination, purchasing, fees and exclusions. If the company supplies goods or construction, ask how it prices substitutions and variations.
Ask who will prepare drawings, source items and visit the site. Put the contracting party, payment account, project lead, approval process, substitute staff and responsibility for defects in writing. Request separate design, goods, labour and project-management costs so you can compare the company with an independent proposal on the same scope.
For structural, electrical or other specialist work, identify the qualified professional responsible for it. A designer’s title does not transfer those responsibilities.
Related guide: Design-and-Build Interior Designers in Nairobi: What Is Included?.
