What to Expect During an Interior Design Consultation
And how to prepare—even if you don't have all the answers yet.
Booking an interior design consultation is an exciting first step—but it can also come with uncertainty. Many homeowners wonder: What will we talk about? Do I need to have everything figured out? How prepared should I be?
You don't need to have all the answers—that's what the consultation is for.
At Josh Petty Design, every project begins with an in-person design consultation focused on listening, understanding, and guiding you toward the right next step.
Why the Consultation Matters
The consultation sets the foundation for the entire design process. It's where ideas take shape, priorities are clarified, and confusion starts to lift.
During This Time, We
- Learn how you live in your space
- Understand what's working—and what isn't
- Discuss your goals, style preferences, and direction
- Evaluate the space with a professional eye
This meeting allows us to recommend the design service that best fits your needs—whether that's full-service design, a No Demo Reno, or A Day With a Designer.
You can explore all service options on our Services page.
What Happens During the Consultation
The Consultation May Include
- Reviewing layout and flow
- Discussing potential updates or changes
- Talking through budget expectations
- Taking photos and measurements
- Answering questions about process and timeline
There's no pressure to make decisions on the spot—this is about gathering information and providing clarity.
What You Don't Need Before the Consultation
Many homeowners worry they're not "ready" for a designer yet. In reality, you don't need:
Not Required
- A finalized vision
- A full Pinterest board
- Specific product selections
- A locked-in budget
It's completely fine to feel unsure. Our role is to help shape your ideas into a cohesive, achievable plan.
Josh's background in architecture and interior styling allows him to quickly identify opportunities within a space—even when clients aren't sure how to articulate what they want. Learn more on the About page.
How to Prepare (Optional, but Helpful)
While preparation isn't required, a little thought beforehand can make the consultation even more productive.
Helpful Things to Consider
- What do you love about your home?
- What feels frustrating or unfinished?
- Are there spaces you use most often?
- Are there styles, colors, or homes you're drawn to?
Even a few reference images or general thoughts can help guide the conversation.
Seeing What's Possible
During the consultation, we often reference past projects to help visualize potential outcomes.
These projects demonstrate how thoughtful design decisions can completely change the way a space feels—without guesswork.
You can also explore more transformations and read about client experiences on our Testimonials page.
What Happens After the Consultation?
After your consultation, we'll recommend the best design path forward based on your goals, timeline, and investment range.
This May Include
There's no one-size-fits-all approach—every recommendation is tailored to you.
Final Thoughts
A design consultation isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking the right questions.
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, this initial meeting provides clarity, direction, and professional insight before costly mistakes are made.
Take the First Step Toward a Home You Love
No pressure. No commitment. Just clarity and direction.
Schedule Your Consultation