Guess what?

There’s something incredibly exciting happening in the world of interior design.

It’s undergoing a revolution, one where traditional norms are being challenged and redefined. Where creativity no longer knows bounds, and where everyone, regardless of location or budget, can access top-notch design advice (yippee)!

In the past, the interior design world was a place often perceived as ‘elite’, reserved for those with hefty budgets, grand homes, and access to big-city resources. Now, thanks to the magic of technology, this once exclusive world is opening its doors wider than ever before. This transformation is primarily driven by the emergence of a fantastic new model of design service delivery - eDesign.

eDesign, also known as virtual interior design, has exploded in popularity in recent years. Traditional interior design services are still going strong, but now they are joined by these new, flexible, and often more affordable online alternatives.

With choice, however, comes the need for clarity. You might be asking yourself, “Is a traditional interior designer or a virtual one better for me?”

Well, you’re in luck. Because that’s precisely the question we will be answering today!

Understanding Traditional Interior Design

As we delve into the heart of interior design, let’s start with a familiar friend - traditional interior design.

What is Traditional Interior Design?

Traditional interior design services are what most people envision when they think of professional interior design. It’s a hands-on, personalized service that offers a holistic approach to transforming your space.

This service is usually offered by designers or firms who are physically present in your location, and they work closely with you through every step of the process.

Pros: Personal Touch

One of the strengths of traditional design services is the personal touch they offer. Imagine having a designer who can visit your home, touch the fabrics, experience the lighting at different times of the day, and truly understand how you live in your space.

This one-on-one interaction leads to a uniquely personalized design, tailored specifically to your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

Pros: Local Network

Another major advantage is the local expertise that traditional designers bring to the table. They likely have robust networks of local contractors, suppliers, and artisans, which can be invaluable when executing a design project.

Pros: Direct Support

Traditional design is also comprehensive, in that it goes beyond the conceptualization of beautiful spaces and delves into project management. Your designer will be with you from the initial planning phase right through to the installation.

This complete management not only ensures a cohesive result but also provides a stress-free experience for you.

Traditional interior design is a tried and true method that offers a tailored, comprehensive, and locally infused service, perfect for those who value personal interaction, local expertise, and a stress-free design experience.

Learn more about MMID’s comprehensive traditional interior design services.

The Emergence of Virtual Interior Design (eDesign)

Now that we have acquainted ourselves with the charm of traditional interior design, let’s embark on a journey into the world of eDesign.

What is E-Design?

eDesign, or virtual interior design, is a model that allows you to collaborate with a designer remotely, typically through an online platform. All communication happens over emails, video calls, and through the use of specialized software.

The key appeal of this model is that it has made interior design services accessible to anyone with an internet connection, irrespective of location or budget.

Pros: Flexibility

One of the most attractive aspects of eDesign is its flexibility. With this model, you can work on your design project at your own pace, and there’s a fluidity that allows for changes and revisions to be made much more easily.

Long gone are the days of needing to schedule an in-person meeting just to discuss a change in color palette or furniture selection!

Pros: Faster Turnaround

eDesign is often quicker than its traditional counterpart. Since there are no site visits or physical meetings, and everything is done online, projects can be turned around faster.

This is especially advantageous if you’re on a tight timeline or simply eager to see your dream space come to life.

Pros: Cost

Another significant advantage of eDesign is its cost-effectiveness. As there are fewer overhead costs for the designer, these savings are often passed onto you.

Plus, eDesign often allows you to execute the plan yourself, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts who want a professional touch to their design but also want to be hands-on in the implementation process. It provides you with more control over the process and the budget, making interior design more accessible than ever.

eDesign has truly democratized the interior design industry, making it flexible, fast, affordable, and more personalized than ever before.

Check out MMID’s comprehensive eDesign services now!

How to Choose What’s Best for You

Now, you might be wondering, “How do I choose what’s right for me?” The key lies in careful consideration of your needs, budget, timeline, personal style, and a few other important factors.

Let’s break this down into manageable steps.

1. Evaluate Your Needs

First, evaluate your needs and the scope of your project. Are you looking to redecorate a single room, or is it a full-scale home renovation? Traditional design services might be more suitable for larger, more complex projects, while eDesign could be perfect for smaller, more straightforward tasks.

2. Budget

Next, consider your budget. Traditional interior design is a comprehensive service that covers everything from conception to completion, so it typically comes with a higher price tag. eDesign, on the other hand, provides you with a professional design plan that you can implement yourself, making it a more cost-effective option.

3. Timeline

Your timeline is also crucial. If speed is of the essence, eDesign, with its quicker turnaround times, could be your best bet. If you’re not in a rush and prefer a slower, more hands-on process, traditional interior design could be the way to go.

4. Style

Your personal style and preferences play a significant role too. Are you a DIY enthusiast who loves getting their hands dirty, or would you rather leave it to the professionals? Do you prefer a personal, face-to-face interaction, or are you comfortable with digital communication?

5. Tech Savvy

The importance of comfort with technology cannot be overstated for those considering eDesign. As the entire process is conducted online, you should be comfortable with using digital platforms, video calls, and design software.

6. Location

Location is another factor to consider. Traditional interior designers often have a vast network of local tradespeople they can recommend, which can be invaluable if you’re planning a big renovation. If you’re in a remote location with limited access to such resources, eDesign can bring top-notch design professionals right to your digital doorstep.

Pro Tip: Choosing a designer - whether traditional or virtual - should be done with care. Remember to:

• Look at their portfolios to see if their style aligns with yours.

• Ask questions about their process, communication style, and experience.

• Read reviews or request references to gauge their reliability and professionalism.

The Choice is Yours!

At the end of the day, whether you choose traditional interior design or eDesign, the goal remains the same - to transform your space into a reflection of your unique personality and lifestyle. It’s about creating a sanctuary where you feel at home and comfortable, a space that brings you joy every day.

There’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ in interior design. The best choice is the one that meets your needs, aligns with your personal style, and fits within your budget. Both traditional and virtual interior design have the power to create stunning, functional spaces - it’s simply a matter of choosing the path that’s right for you.

Whichever route you choose, MMID wishes you all the best in creating your dream space!

Want MMID to be a part of creating said dream space? Contact us today!