Not long ago, I had a potential client tell me we were much more expensive than another designer they’d met with. After a few follow-up questions, I realized they were comparing us—a full-service interior design firm—to a freelance designer and an in-store designer at a local furniture store. All talented professionals, no doubt. But we weren’t comparing apples to apples.
The truth is, most homeowners don’t realize how many different types of design services exist—and how different the pricing, scope, and overall experience can be. It’s easy to assume “designer” means the same thing across the board, but the behind-the-scenes setup of each business can look very different.
If you’re thinking about hiring a designer, here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types of design services, plus the pros and cons of each—so you can figure out which one makes the most sense for your project.
1. Independent Designer (Design-Only Services)
Many interior designers begin their careers as solo entrepreneurs, and some choose to stay that way. These designers typically focus on providing design guidance without directly selling furniture or décor. Instead, they might send clients shopping links to retail sites like West Elm, Pottery Barn, or Wayfair. Some use affiliate links, earning small commissions when clients make purchases through those recommendations.
Pros:
Typically lower design fees
Personalized, one-on-one service
Clients can shop at their own pace
Cons:
Limited access to trade-only or custom furnishings
The client is responsible for purchasing, coordinating delivery, and handling any damages or returns
Less control over the final result if items are backordered or unavailable
Good Fit For:
Homeowners who want design guidance but prefer to handle the purchasing and project management themselves.
2. Designer or Firm Using a Showroom Partner
Some designers work closely with local furniture showrooms or stores to source furniture and décor. In this arrangement, the designer places orders through the store, which takes care of receiving, inspecting, and storing the items. This setup allows designers access to high-end brands without having to meet the minimum order requirements that direct vendors often demand.
Pros:
Access to better quality and designer-only brands
The store handles logistics like shipping and storage
Designers can offer more cohesive, elevated results
Cons:
Limited to the lines the store or showroom carries
Designers may split their earnings with the store, which can affect pricing
Clients may experience longer lead times depending on the showroom’s schedule
Good Fit For:
Clients who want a polished result without the complications of managing orders and deliveries on their own.
3. Full-Service Designer (Design + Direct Furniture Sales)
The independent design service provided by firms like Mickler & Co. handle everything from start to finish—including design, product sourcing, ordering, shipping, receiving, and final installation. Full-service firms don’t rely on retail sites like Wayfair or Pottery Barn. Instead, we work directly with trade vendors to bring unique and uncommon, high-quality furnishings to our clients. We invest significant time researching, vetting, and building relationships with trusted vendors—allowing us to source distinctive pieces that aren’t available to the general public. This means better craftsmanship, more customization options, and a higher level of control over your project.
Pros:
A true turn-key experience
Access to exclusive brands, custom furnishings, and better quality
One point of contact for design, sourcing, and installation
Cons:
Typically a higher overall investment
Less flexibility for DIY-style collaboration
Not ideal for clients who prefer to shop themselves or stay hands-on
Good Fit For:
Busy homeowners and professionals who want a seamless, all-inclusive process and are ready to invest in quality.
4. In-House Designers at Furniture Stores
Many local and chain furniture stores employ in-house designers to help customers pull together rooms using the store’s inventory. These designers usually offer free or discounted services and earn commission based on what their clients purchase.
Pros:
No (or very low) design fees
Quick access to in-stock or quick-ship pieces
Helpful if you already know what store you want to shop
Cons:
Design recommendations are limited to what’s available in-store
The focus is often on selling rather than overall vision or planning
May not include installation, styling, or customization options
Good Fit For:
Clients looking to furnish a room quickly or who already plan to purchase from a specific store.
5. Design-Build Firms (Designer + Contractor)
Some firms offer both design and construction under one roof. These teams often include interior designers, general contractors, and project managers working together from the start. They’re especially useful for renovations, additions, and kitchen or bathroom remodels.
Pros:
Streamlined communication between designer and builder
Fewer handoffs and miscommunications
Efficient timelines and budget tracking
Cons:
May have limited furniture and decorating services
Some firms lean more construction-focused than design-focused
You may be locked into working with their contractor team
Good Fit For:
Homeowners planning a remodel or addition who want one team to handle everything from drawings to demolition to final finishes.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s the thing—every one of these models has its place. The “right” type of design service really depends on your project, your personality, and your priorities. If you’re super hands-on and love the thrill of the hunt, a design-only service might be perfect. If you’re juggling work, family, and a million other things, you may want the ease of a full-service firm or design-build team.
The important part is knowing what you’re signing up for—and making sure the designer’s process and pricing match the kind of support you’re looking for. When you understand the differences, it’s easier to make a smart decision and find a designer who feels like the right fit.
Need help figuring out which approach is right for your project? Schedule a Discovery Call to learn more about our full-service interior design service and home staging services in Wilmington and surrounding Brunswick and Pender counties. We’re happy to walk you through what we do—and help you decide if we’re the right partner for your home.
Renovate or Decorate? How to Choose the Right Path for Your Home
If you’re deciding between a home renovation and a redecoration, there’s more to consider than just the budget. From function to finish, each approach serves a different purpose—and the right one depends on how your home works for you today. Keep reading for expert insights from Mickler & Co. in Wilmington, NC on whether it’s time to knock down walls—or simply update the furniture and decor.
Is a Home Renovation Truly Necessary?
A full renovation is often the right choice when your floor plan is no longer functional or when you’re planning to move walls, plumbing, or electrical systems. This might include reconfiguring your kitchen layout, adding new windows for better natural light, or creating a more open-concept living space.
Renovations are ideal when:
The layout doesn’t support your lifestyle
You want to update behind-the-walls systems
You need new doors, windows, or structural adjustments
If your home feels cramped, segmented, or simply no longer fits your needs, a renovation may be the best long-term investment.
What to Expect from a Full Renovation
When done right, a renovation can completely transform your home—both in how it looks and how it lives. It allows for a custom, highly functional design that’s tailored to your preferences and daily routines.
At Mickler & Co., we guide you through every stage of the renovation process, from space planning to finishes and furnishings. Our Wilmington-based design team collaborates with trusted contractors to ensure every detail reflects your vision.
When Redecorating Is the Smarter Choice
Not every home needs a major overhaul to feel new. Sometimes, a well-thought-out redecoration can breathe fresh life into a space. If your layout works and there are no structural concerns, updating furniture, finishes, and decor may be all that’s needed.
Redecorating is ideal when:
You’re happy with the current layout
You want to update style, color, or furnishings
You’re looking for a faster, less disruptive transformation
Think of it as a style refresh—not a construction project.
What to Expect From a Redecoration?
Redecorating can include a wide range of updates, from new furniture layouts and color palettes to built-ins, wall treatments, and decorative lighting. A thoughtful redecoration can still make your space feel elevated and fresh—without the cost and timeline of a renovation.
Whether you’re preparing a home for sale or simply want to love where you live again, a redecoration can be just as impactful as more extensive changes.
Not Sure Which Interior Design Route to Take? We Can Help
A professional design consultation is a great way to determine the best path forward. At Mickler & Co. Design Studio, we help you assess what’s working (and what’s not), clarify your goals, and outline a plan that fits your budget and timeline. We can help you decide whether to renovate or decorate.
We specialize in:
Full-service interior design in Wilmington, NC
Home renovations and remodeling support
Furniture sourcing and turnkey room updates
Redecorating and home staging for resale
Let’s Make Your Home Work Better for You
Not sure if you need a renovation or just a design refresh? We’re here to help. Book a consultation with Mickler & Co. and we’ll help you figure out the best next steps to make your home more functional and beautiful.
Home Staging vs. Interior Design: 3 Key Differences You Need to Know
While home staging and interior design may appear similar at first glance, their purposes are distinct. Understanding these differences can help homeowners make the right choices whether they’re preparing to sell or customizing their living space.
1. Home Staging Showcases the Property, Interior Design Personalizes It
Home staging is all about making a property appealing to the widest range of potential buyers. It highlights the home’s best features and creates a neutral, inviting environment that buyers can envision as their own. In contrast, interior design is a personalized process tailored to the homeowner’s unique tastes and lifestyle, focusing on comfort and functionality.
2. Staging Focuses on Aesthetics, Design Prioritizes Function
Staging is all about those first impressions. It’s like dressing your home up for a big event—strategic furniture placement, pops of color, and just the right decor to make everything shine. The goal? To boost your home’s value and help it sell faster. Interior design, though, isn’t just about looks—it’s about how your space works for your day-to-day life. It’s where style meets function.
3. Staging Preps Your Home for Buyers, Design Makes It Perfect for You
When staging a home, everything’s set up to wow people in photos and during showings. Think furniture positioned to highlight cool architectural details or using neutral colors so everyone can imagine themselves living there. But with interior design, it’s all about you—your style, your needs, your vibe. It’s about making your space work for the way you live.
In both home staging and interior design, the home itself is the foundation. Professional design highlights architectural features and showcases the home’s true potential.
Let’s Make Your Space Shine
Whether you’re staging to sell or designing to stay, it all starts with the home itself. Professional staging and design bring out the best in any property, highlighting its features and showing off its true potential.
Ready to Sell for Top Dollar?
If you’re ready to list your home for top dollar, we would be glad to help you achieve that. Reach out and let’s chat about your upcoming sale!
Our homes should make us feel happy, comfortable, and at ease. After all, homes are a reflection of the homeowners! From personal items collected through fond memories to the way you function in your day-to-day life. Here’s a look into how we discover your interior design style…
Step #1: Gather Inspiration
One of the first tasks we assign to our clients is to find inspiration photos and lots of them! It’s normal to be drawn to multiple styles so we suggest searching by room. Sometimes, people will think they are drawn to a specific style but their inspiration photos say differently! This is why we don’t limit our clients to a specific style, we focus on what they are drawn to and go from there.
Step #2: Identify Key Design Elements
When looking at clients’ inspiration photos, we are looking for common denominators – color palettes, furniture styles, artwork, materials, etc. The main thing we look for in inspiration photos is the overall look and feeling the space creates and then we find how to get there. Check out our fantastic “Find Your Signature Style” quiz to help narrow down your style options. Start your journey by taking the quiz HERE.
Step #3: Create a Concept Board
We typically only need to see a handful of inspiration photos before we can see the vision and start taking notes! Once we pinpoint the overall look the client is after, we find what makes that specific look. It could be a slipcover sofa, distressed wood, or gold accents. Every detail matters but it’s the big picture that we have in mind at all times during the design process.
Finding the look you’re after is the first step to creating the home you’ve always dreamed of. Show us the meal you want and we’ll find all the perfect ingredients to blow it out of the park. Make your home a reflection of you and all the things you love.
Ready to start planning your one-of-a-kind dream space? Let’s chat!
Are you ready to transform your space into something uniquely yours? At Mickler & Co. Design Studio, our in-home interior design consultations offer expert advice and decorating ideas tailored to your style and needs. Whether you’re in Wilmington, NC or the surrounding areas, our designers bring personalized insight right to your door.
What Are the Benefits of an Interior Design Consultation?
During your consultation, you’ll receive professional, actionable design advice—from choosing paint colors and rearranging furniture to identifying your ideal design style. Our clients love the instant gratification of leaving the session with a solid plan and renewed excitement about their space.
What Happens During a Design Consultation?
Arrival: We show up a few minutes early, ready to dive in. No need to apologize for your space—we’re here to help, not judge!
Introduction & Goal Setting: We’ll discuss your specific challenges and design goals—whether it’s a paint color consultation, updating layout, or achieving a certain aesthetic like coastal contemporary.
Action Plan: Together we’ll:
Select paint palettes for connected rooms
Rearrange furniture for better flow
Source decor to reflect your personal style
Collaboration: We’ll adjust ideas in real-time based on your feedback, making sure we stay aligned with your vision.
Summary: Before we leave, we’ll create a next-steps checklist with paint colors, shopping resources, and design tips.
Why Clients Love Our Consultations
Tailored Advice: Every consultation is unique to your home and lifestyle.
Collaborative Approach: We work together to find solutions that work for you.
Actionable Results: Leave with a clear, step-by-step plan you can implement immediately.
Flexibility: You can take the plan and run with it—or let us handle the rest!
Get Inspired With Expert Interior Design Support
Our Wilmington NC interior design consultations remove the guesswork from decorating and provide clarity and confidence. Whether you’re exploring new ideas for a coastal bathroom design or reimagining your living room layout, our design pros help you visualize and execute your vision.
Let’s Review: What You’ll Gain
Eliminate DIY Guesswork: Get expert insight and avoid costly mistakes.
Professional Objectivity: Fresh eyes + deep design knowledge = game-changing ideas.
Prioritized Next Steps: Walk away with a customized plan of action.
Excitement & Confidence: You’ll feel great about the direction of your design journey!
Service Areas
We proudly offer interior design consultations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including:
Pender County
Brunswick County
Hampstead
Southport
St. James Plantation
Sunset Beach
North Topsail
Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or investor, this service is the perfect first step toward the home you’ve always wanted.
Looking for a cost-effective yet professional approach to interior design? Mickler & Co.’s Gold Package for Online Interior Design is the perfect solution. This service offers the same high-quality design expertise as traditional full-service interior design—at a fraction of the cost!
What is Online (or Virtual) Design?
Online design, also known as virtual design, is a modern approach to interior decorating that allows you to collaborate with professional designers from the comfort of your own home. It eliminates the need for in-person meetings while delivering the same high-quality results as traditional interior design services. By using digital tools, personalized design packages, and detailed guidance, virtual design empowers you to create a beautifully curated space at a fraction of the cost. From 3D room visualizations to comprehensive shopping lists, online design combines convenience, affordability, and professional expertise to bring your dream space to life.
Why Choose Online (or Virtual) Interior Design?
Our online interior design service provides exceptional value by streamlining the process. We eliminate two time-intensive components typically included in full-service design:
Initial Intake Phase: Instead of our team conducting site visits, taking photos, and measuring the space, we guide you to handle this step yourself and share the details with us.
Shopping & Implementation: After we deliver your custom design, you take charge of purchasing and implementing the plan, saving time and money.
By empowering you to be part of the process, we can deliver high-quality designs without the high price tag.
What’s Included in the Gold Package?
With the Gold Package, you receive a comprehensive suite of tools to bring your vision to life:
3D Room Visualizations: Get a realistic preview of your redesigned space with stunning 3D images.
Inspiration Board: A curated collection of ideas to set the tone for your design.
Furniture Plan: A detailed floor plan to maximize your space effectively.
Online Shopping List: A convenient list of recommended pieces tailored to your design.
Custom Implementation Guide: Step-by-step instructions to help you turn the design into reality.
How Does It Work?
Submit Your Details: Share your space measurements, photos, and design preferences with our expert team.
Receive Your Design Package: Our team creates a fully personalized plan, complete with all the tools listed above.
Shop and Implement: Using your shopping list and implementation guide, you take the lead in completing your space.
Why Clients Love Mickler & Co.’s Gold Package
Our online interior design service combines convenience, affordability, and professional-quality results. Whether you’re redesigning your living room, bedroom, or office, the Gold Package equips you with everything you need to create a beautiful, functional space.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Start your project today with Mickler & Co.’s Gold Package for Online Interior Design and experience the perfect blend of professional design and DIY implementation. Check out our Services page to see a sample project!
Say Hello To Mickler & Co. Welcome to the Mickler & Co. Design Studio blog, your go-to source for expert interior design, home staging & rental design tips, the latest trends, and creative inspiration to transform your home into a personalized haven.
Visit us at 2007 Dawson St., Wilmington, NC 28403, or shop our online store for inspiration! https://shop.micklerco.com/
