Misconceptions About Interior Designers

Misconceptions About Interior Designers

When people think of interior designers, they often envision scenes straight out of movie dramas, HGTV, or glossy magazines, assuming they are snobby, bossy, and expensive.

The truth? Most designers I know are none of those things, and working with a designer has tremendous value. We make your life easier, make your projects more affordable in the long run, and leave you with a more satisfying finished project. Let’s debunk a few common myths.

I am stenciling a client’s cabinets.

MYTH 1: Interior Designers are Snobby Primadonnas
TRUTH: Most of us are approachable, collaborative, and passionate about helping people make the most of their home. Believe it or not, I once had this distorted perception. When considering my graduate school options for a creative career, I was initially resistant to studying interior design because of these misconceptions. It took time, a few books about interior design, and talking with designers to realize I was wrong.
 
My role as a designer isn’t to dictate your choices; it’s to listen carefully to your needs, preferences, and lifestyle, and then use my expertise to guide the process. Think of me as a creative partner who expands your options, brings clarity, and helps you make confident decisions. Never someone who swoops in and tells you what you “should” want.

MYTH 2: Interior Designers Only Work with the Very Wealthy
TRUTH: People often make this assumption without asking how much I charge or what the benefits of working together are. You would be surprised by the variety of homes I have worked in.

Yes, you’ll see celebrity homes on TV, and some designers will only work on projects of a certain size. However, at Susan Rains Design, design is for everyone. From tailored consultations to comprehensive design services, I offer options to suit a range of investment levels.

At my booth at the Haverford Home and Garden Show with my family.

MYTH 3: Interior Designers only care about looks, and they’ll hate everything I already own.
TRUTH: A lot of people think interior design is just about making a space “pretty,” or they cringe and tell me, “You’ll probably want to toss out everything I own.” The truth? I believe great design is about function, comfort, style, and supporting your wellbeing. A home should support your lifestyle, bring you joy, reduce stress, and make you feel more grounded.

As for the things you already have? I love it when clients’ favorite pieces, whether it’s a cozy chair or meaningful artwork, become the foundation of the new design. By blending what you love with thoughtful updates, I create homes for my clients that are both beautiful and deeply personal.

MYTH 4: It’s faster and cheaper to DIY
TRUTH: A good designer does the opposite. My role is to protect your budget, help you avoid costly mistakes, and guide you to invest wisely in the pieces that will bring lasting value and joy. From hardware to tradespeople, I plan for all the moving parts so surprises are kept to a minimum.

DIY can be fun for small projects, but when it comes to a whole room or remodel, the trial-and-error approach often costs more time and money. Picking one sofa or paint color may seem simple, but pulling together a cohesive, functional, and beautiful home is a complex task. Designers consider the big picture, scale, lighting, color undertones, traffic flow, and how every detail enhances your life. Working together actually saves you time, money, and frustration, so you can enjoy your finished space sooner.

If you’ve been hesitating because of one of these myths, maybe it’s time to reconsider. Interior design is about creating a home that supports your life and wellbeing, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Wishing you wide open skies, well loved spaces, and the inspiration to create a home that restores you.

At Susan Rains Design, I help busy professionals in the Philadelphia metro area create homes that feel as good as they look. Blending vintage charm with modern functionality, I design soulful, supportive interiors using natural textures, calming colors, and thoughtful materials. Every space is rooted in wellness, crafted to reflect your values, elevate your daily life, and nurture your personal goals.

👉 Click here to book your call

Warmly,
Susan