Why you should care

From defining style and budget to comparing portfolios and asking the right questions, this guide will help you find a designer who aligns with your vision.

Renovating your home is exciting—it’s a chance to refresh your space and create a place that truly feels like yours. But finding the right designer to bring your vision to life while staying within your budget can feel like a big task. That’s why we’ve created this guide to make that process easier and safer for Malaysian homeowners. 

Ahead, you’ll find easy tips that’ll help you find a designer who fits your style, needs, and budget. Plus, discover how you can protect your payments with the Atap Renovation Guarantee so you can start your project with confidence.

1. Determine Your Style, Budget, and How You’ll Use the Space

Before reaching out to designers, take some time to decide on the look and feel you want for your home. Whether it’s a modern, minimal or rustic look, it’s best to explore the styles you’re comfortable with. While you’re at it, consider your household’s lifestyle and daily routines too–do you tend to have family and friends over which calls for a larger living space? Or will you need a pet-friendly space that’s also easy to use and maintain? Understanding these needs will help you and your chosen design firm visualise the best way to transform your space.

Finally, set a realistic budget. Start with an amount you’re comfortable spending, then consider if there’s any flexibility. Having a budget in mind will help you find a designer who can work within your financial plan and avoid surprises later on.

2. Research and Review Portfolios

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to find designers who can make it happen. A great way to kickstart your search is through Atap.co’s directory of trusted and verified professionals. With over 3,000 design firms to browse through, you can easily review portfolios, see each firm’s unique style and expertise, and if their work aligns with your vision.  

3. Get Matched with Designers on Atap.co

To make your search easier, opt to get connected with up to four of Atap’s verified designer firms that suit your specific needs instead. Simply answer a few details about your project and we’ll match you with professionals who fit your style, budget and renovation goals. 

This way, you don’t have to spend hours researching as we’ll narrow down options to a few firms who are ready to bring your vision to life. From there, you can review each designer’s work, ask questions, and decide who feels like the right fit for your home.

4. Ask the Right Questions

This step is key to gathering all the information you need to make a well-informed choice. Asking the right questions helps you understand each designer’s approach and whether they align with your vision. Here are a few important ones:

  • What types of services do you offer?
  • Have you worked on projects like mine?
  • What’s your design process, and how long will it take? 
  • Do you handle all parts of the project, or will I need other contractors? 
  • What is your fee structure? 

5. Assess Your Options

Once you’ve spoken with a few professionals, take a moment to weigh your options. Comparing each firm’s strengths and approach will help you decide who best fits your needs. Here are some points to consider as you review your choices:

  • Does their style match your vision? Make sure their past work lines up with what you want for your home.
  • Are their fees in line with your budget? Check that their pricing structure aligns with what you’re comfortable spending.
  • Do they communicate clearly? Working with a designer who explains things well and keeps you updated makes the whole process much smoother.

After assessing your options, it’s time to start the exciting journey of transforming your space with the designer who best understands your vision and needs.

The Final Step: Protecting Your Payments with the Atap Renovation Guarantee

At Atap, we understand that renovations are a big investment, and safeguarding your payments is essential. That’s why we offer the Atap Renovation Guarantee, a program that safeguards your investments with financial protection of up to RM50,000 or 50% of the contract value in the unlikely event that your engaged designer firm becomes insolvent. As our way of protecting you and your financial investment, the guarantee lets you focus on bringing your vision to life without worrying about financial risks. 

Learn more about the Atap Renovation Guarantee.

Picking the right designer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning, research, and support, you can find a designer who aligns with your vision, budget, and communication style. Plus, with the Atap Renovation Guarantee, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your investments are protected, so you can confidently create a home you’ll love.

Ready to get started? Browse and connect with trusted, verified and award-winning professionals or get matched with up to four design firms that suit your design needs.

Why you should care

From defining style and budget to comparing portfolios and asking the right questions, this guide will help you find a designer who aligns with your vision.

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