Design Myths, Busted: What It's Really Like to Work with a Designer
Thoughtful design can transform any room into a place you’ll love to live in. Project On Wychwood Hill, Megan Crosbie Design
Designing your home is a huge undertaking that can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming.
If you’ve watched any home makeover shows, you know it can seem like a snap to get the perfect space. But the reality is much more nuanced. That’s why many people turn to designers - but hiring one can also be intimidating, especially if you’re unsure about what it involves.
So, let’s address some of the common concerns we hear from clients - and give you the truth about what working with a designer is really like.
Spoiler alert: the right designer can make the process smoother, more enjoyable, and, ultimately, a lot more rewarding.
(1) "A designer won’t respect my budget and will add unpredictable expenses."
This is a valid concern, but here’s the thing: when you work with a designer who’s transparent and organized, your budget is always at the top of your mind. At MCD, we start with a clear budget from the beginning and work within it every step of the way. You’ll be kept in the loop on costs throughout the process (we do monthly updates, for example), and if you want to splurge on a special item, we’ll always give you options so you can make informed choices.
While hiring a designer is an investment, remember that you’re already spending money on your home - whether it’s on materials, labour, or furniture. A designer helps avoid costly mistakes, manage resources efficiently, and ensure your investment truly pays off. By making strategic decisions from the start, we ensure your budget goes further - and your project stays on track.
(2) "I can do it myself with Pinterest and Instagram."
While we love Pinterest and Instagram as sources of inspiration, they often don’t provide the whole picture. Successful renovations require more than just pretty images - they require expertise. Designers have the experience to navigate the technical aspects of a project, from space planning and structural changes to selecting the right materials. Many clients who start out wanting to go DIY end up hiring a designer midway because they realize how much work and expertise is needed to bring their vision to life.
A designer’s job is to turn inspiration into reality - tailoring every detail to fit your unique space and needs. We’re here to make sure your ideas come together cohesively and functionally.
(3) "Designers will take over and ignore my vision."
It’s totally understandable to worry that you’ll lose control of your project or that the space won’t reflect you. But a good designer is all about collaboration. We’re here to enhance your vision, not replace it. We’ll work closely with you to understand your style, needs, and goals, then elevate them with creative solutions you might not have thought of. At MCD, we love working with our clients - not taking over.
If you’re a design lover yourself and have strong preferences, let us know upfront! We’re always excited to get into the nitty-gritty with our clients so the final result feels uniquely yours.
(4) "Designers only work in certain styles."
It’s important to choose a designer whose style aligns with your own. That said, a good designer should be flexible and capable of working in a variety of styles. At MCD, we don’t specialize in just one aesthetic - we pride ourselves on creating unique, tailored designs for each client. We always take the time to get to know you and your preferences, ensuring we understand your vision before diving into the design process. If you're unsure about the style you're after, we’re here to help you discover it.
The key is to find a designer who listens, adapts, and is willing to go beyond their signature style to meet your needs.
Project Rusholme Road
(5) "The process is too complicated and time-consuming."
Yes, a renovation project does take time, but that’s because it’s a thoughtful process. Each step is necessary to ensure you get the best possible result - and we’re here to streamline it for you. At MCD, we manage timelines and make decisions efficiently to ensure your project runs smoothly. Far from being a burden, the process will actually save you time and reduce stress. We focus on the details, so you don’t have to.
In the end, working with a designer can save you time and money by keeping everything on track, preventing costly mistakes, and ensuring the whole process goes as smoothly as possible.
(6) "I’ll have to replace everything I own."
We often hear this concern, and it’s definitely not the case! The goal is never to throw everything out and start fresh (unless, of course, you want to!). We’ll work with you to figure out what you love and want to keep, and incorporate it into the new design. Whether it’s sentimental pieces, family heirlooms, or just something you really love, we’ll help you find ways to make it work in your new space.
At MCD, we mix old and new all the time, giving rooms personality and making them feel unique to you. It’s all about balance - and you get to decide what stays and what goes.
This primary bedroom transformation for our Project Annex Refresh preserved meaningful elements like the vintage settee and chandelier while adding custom millwork for tons of storage. You don’t have to replace everything you own - sometimes it’s about elevating what’s already there.
(7) "A designer will judge my home."
We’ve heard this one more times than we can count, and we’re here to set the record straight: designers aren’t here to judge! When we walk into your home, we’re not looking at the mess or imperfections. We’re imagining what the space could be and getting excited about all the potential. In fact, the more challenging the space, the more we love it - it’s all about seeing the possibilities and making your vision come to life.
We’ve seen it all - every kind of space, every kind of project - and we’re always excited to help you transform yours, no matter where we’re starting from.
(8) "Designers don’t add value to my home."
This is a big one, and it’s a myth we’re passionate about debunking. A good designer adds incredible value to your home - both in terms of how it functions day-to-day and in its long-term resale potential. Thoughtful design enhances curb appeal, optimizes your space, and increases the functionality of key areas like kitchens and bathrooms, all of which boost your home’s market value.
Plus, working with a designer helps you avoid costly mistakes and make smarter choices about materials and layout. The right design can ensure your space is timeless, and it can help your home stay relevant for years to come.
In Project Wychwood Hill, we transformed this unused Toronto garage into a stunning three-season screened-in porch, creating an inviting outdoor space perfect for entertaining.
(9) "I won’t like the final outcome."
It’s natural to worry about whether the final design will meet your expectations, but at MCD, we work closely with you every step of the way to ensure you’re involved in the process. We set clear expectations from the start and have check-ins throughout to ensure you’re happy with each decision. The process is collaborative, and we’re always there to refine the design until it’s exactly what you want.
(10) "I don’t know what I want, so I can’t start."
Guess what? You’re not alone! Most people don’t know exactly what they want at the beginning of the process, and that’s totally fine. Our job as designers is to help you figure it out. We’ll guide you through the discovery process, helping you uncover your preferences and desires - even the ones you didn’t know you had. Whether you know exactly what you want or need a little help finding your direction, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
(11) "Designers only care about expensive brands."
At MCD, we believe great design isn’t about how much you spend - it’s about how you spend it. We’re passionate about mixing high and low, combining investment pieces with affordable finds to create a home that feels layered, personal, and timeless. Style and quality can be found across all price ranges, and we pride ourselves on sourcing pieces that suit your budget without compromising on aesthetics or durability.
Our approach focuses on thoughtful planning: we’ll guide you on where it makes sense to splurge for longevity and impact - like a durable sofa or custom cabinetry - and where you can save without sacrificing style, such as through savvy accessory selections or vintage finds. By striking this balance, we’ll help you achieve a home that feels collected, cohesive, and uniquely yours, proving that beautiful design is accessible at any budget.
(12) "I don’t want a space that looks like everyone else’s."
This is something we totally understand. No one wants their home to feel like a catalogue photo. At MCD, we pride ourselves on creating spaces that are as unique as our clients. We’re not here to follow trends - we’re here to design something that reflects your personality, your lifestyle, and your needs. Every project is custom, and we approach each one with fresh eyes to ensure it feels uniquely yours.
Conclusion: Hiring the Right Designer is a Game Changer
Working with an interior designer doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, it can be one of the best decisions you make for your home. The right designer will work with you to understand your vision, stay within your budget, and create a space that’s functional, beautiful, and unique. If you're still unsure, the key is finding a designer whose style and approach align with your goals. It’s a partnership, not a takeover - and when done right, it’s a rewarding process that adds value to both your home and your lifestyle.