When should you go to a direct contractor VS an interior designer?

Deciding between hiring a direct contractor or an interior designer depends largely on the scope and nature of your project, as well as your personal preferences and needs. If you're primarily focused on structural or functional improvements to your home, such as renovating your kitchen, adding an extension, or repairing masonry work, a direct contractor might be the better choice. residential masonry services

Hey there anon!

Your question couldn't come at a better time because I am also looking for that answer myself. So I have been gathering information from my friends who have BTO-ed and also did my own research.

Here are some pros and cons of getting an ID and direct contractor.

Interior Designer

Pros:

• Only liaise with one person as he/she (your ID) will liaise with the contractors

• You don't need to supervise the construction yourself (you need someone for this role because they will 100% mess up with no directions according to this video that I watched)

• Peace of mind because you just need to choose what fittings you want and the ID will make sure its functional when you get your finished house (if you don't have ID and you have to get your own water tap, for example, and if it's spoilt, you have to exchange it in the store yourself)

• Tell your ID the theme and vibes you want and they will design it for you.

Cons:

• More expensive

• That's it (from what I gathered)

Direct Contractor

• Cheaper! (by about $10,000 approximately)

• Hands-on experience of designing your own home = sense of achievement!

• You get to be the project manager and ID so if you already have a design/vibe in mind, going for direct contractor should be the best (caveat: you are ready to take leave from your job to supervise the construction sometimes)

Cons:

• High stress level (esp. during work) e.g contractor did the job wrongly or got the wrong material

• Having to get all the fittings yourself online or do your own purchasing

After knowing these, I might personally opt for an ID if my finances allow it. But please please please don't let my decision affect yours!​​​