Embarking on an interior design journey is an exciting milestone. Whether you’re renovating an HDB flat, condominium, or a commercial property, the relationship you build with your interior designer can make or break the experience.
One of the most common (and costly) mistakes homeowners make is signing a renovation contract without asking the right questions upfront. Clear communication, transparency, and aligned expectations are essential to protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth renovation journey.
At Artmuse Interior, we believe informed clients make the best partners. Here are 10 essential questions you should ask before hiring any interior designer in Singapore.
1. Can You Provide a Detailed Breakdown of the Quotation?
Why you must ask:
A lump-sum quotation can hide vague scopes, exclusions, or unexpected costs. Many renovation disputes stem from unclear pricing.
What to look for:
- A line-by-line breakdown of works (carpentry, electrical, plumbing, etc.)
- Separate costs for materials and labour
- Clear inclusions and exclusions
- A contingency allowance (usually 10–15%) for unforeseen issues
At Artmuse Interior, we provide fully transparent quotations so you know exactly where every dollar goes — no unpleasant surprises.
2. What Is the Realistic Project Timeline, and How Do You Handle Delays?
Why you must ask:
Renovation affects your daily life. Understanding timelines helps you plan better and reduces stress.
What to look for:
- Estimated start and completion dates
- A rough renovation schedule by phase
- Clear communication channels for progress updates
- Policies for delays caused by suppliers, clients, or external factors
3. Do You Have a Portfolio of Completed Projects Similar to Mine?
Why you must ask:
Design expertise varies. A firm experienced in landed homes may not be ideal for compact HDB layouts — and vice versa.
What to look for:
- Projects similar in size, style, and property type
- Before-and-after photos
- Experience in interior design for commercial spaces if you’re renovating an office or retail unit
Browse Artmuse Interior’s portfolio to see our work across HDBs, condos, and commercial properties.
4. Who Will Be My Main Point of Contact, and How Often Will We Communicate?
Why you must ask:
Poor communication is one of the top complaints in renovation projects.
What to look for:
- A dedicated designer or project manager
- Agreed communication channels (WhatsApp, email, site meetings)
- Regular update frequency
- A clear escalation process for urgent issues
5. Can You Walk Me Through Your Space Planning Process?
Why you must ask:
Great design isn’t just about looks — it’s about functionality, flow, and liveability, especially in Singapore’s space-constrained homes.
What to look for:
- How your lifestyle and daily habits are assessed
- Use of floor plans and 3D visualisations
- Smart storage and multi-functional solutions
As a trusted space planning and interior design company, Artmuse Interior focuses on ergonomic layouts that maximise every square foot.
6. What Does Your Project Management and Supervision Process Involve?
Why you must ask:
Even the best design can fail without proper execution and supervision.
What to look for:
- Frequency of site visits
- Coordination of subcontractors
- Quality checks at each renovation stage
7. How Do You Handle Changes or Variations to the Original Plan?
Why you must ask:
Design changes and unexpected issues are common. A clear Variation Order (VO) process prevents disputes.
What to look for:
- A formal VO procedure
- Written approval before work proceeds
- Clear impact on cost and timeline
8. What Are the Payment Terms and Schedule?
Why you must ask:
An overly front-loaded payment structure can leave homeowners unprotected.
What to look for:
- Milestone-based payment schedule
- Reasonable upfront deposit (avoid firms requesting over 50%)
- Clearly stated payment terms in the contract
Artmuse Interior offers balanced, milestone-based payments that protect both parties.
9. What Is Covered Under Your Warranty or Defect Liability Period?
Why you must ask:
Defects may only appear after handover. A solid warranty reflects confidence in workmanship.
What to look for:
- Warranty duration (typically 12 months for workmanship)
- Covered items (carpentry, electrical, fittings)
- Clear defect reporting and rectification process
10. Can I Speak to Your Past Clients or Read Their Testimonials?
Why you must ask:
Past clients offer the most honest insight into what it’s really like to work with the firm.
What to look for:
- Genuine Google and website reviews
- Willingness to share references (with respect for privacy)
- Feedback on communication, problem-solving, and after-sales service
Conclusion: Your Trust Is Our Blueprint
Asking these ten questions helps you choose a true renovation partner, not just a contractor. A successful interior design journey is built on transparency, trust, and shared expectations.
At Artmuse Interior, we don’t just design beautiful spaces — we build long-term relationships through honesty, quality workmanship, and thoughtful project management.
Ready to renovate with confidence?
Contact Artmuse Interior today for a consultation and let’s bring your vision to life.