How to Brief Your Interior Designer (and Actually Get What You Want)

Published 08/18/2025
You’ve taken the exciting step of bringing an interior design studio (ahem, EB Studio 😉) on board to help transform your home - but now you’re wondering: How do I explain what I actually want to the design team so I don’t stuff it up?!? That’s where the brief comes in. A clear, thoughtful brief…

You’ve taken the exciting step of bringing an interior design studio (ahem, EB Studio 😉) on board to help transform your home – but now you’re wondering: How do I explain what I actually want to the design team so I don’t stuff it up?!?

That’s where the brief comes in. A clear, thoughtful brief is the foundation of the entire design process – from the very first mood board to the day you move in. It helps us understand your style, your needs, and how you want to feel in your home.

Sometimes it’s tricky to articulate our style but a picture paints a thousand words so the more imagery you can show us the better! 

Here are our top 5 tips for nailing your brief and getting the most out of working with your designer.

Emma Blomfield, dressed in a white blazer and jeans, stands before a mood board curating design ideas for bighomes that flawlessly embody designwithscale.

1. Be honest about how you live

Design isn’t just about pretty things – it’s about how you use your home day-to-day. The more we know about your lifestyle, the better we can create a space that works for you (and not just for Instagram).

2. Show us what you love (and what you don’t)

Pinterest boards, Instagram saves, photos of hotels you’ve stayed in – they all help. We’re not looking for perfection here, just clues to what you’re drawn to.

And don’t be afraid to share what you don’t like – it’s just as helpful. The goal isn’t to copy a look, but to understand your taste and tailor the design to you.

Emma Blomfield flips through a fabric swatch book on a wooden table, surrounded by textile samples and design materials as she explores interior design trends for big homes.

3. Share your practical must-haves

If you must have storage for 40 pairs of shoes or you need blackout blinds for a night-shift schedule – now’s the time to tell us.

List out your non-negotiables. These little things have a huge impact on how you function in the space, and it helps us make sure we don’t miss anything important.

4. Be upfront about your budget

We promise – we’re not here to spend all your money. But having a clear idea of your budget from the start helps us make smart, informed decisions about where to splurge and where to save.

It also saves time, avoids awkward surprises, and helps the entire project stay on track.

5. Trust the process (and your designer)

Once the brief is set, it’s our job to bring it all to life – with creativity, detail, and care. Trust in the process (and us!) to guide you, problem-solve, and refine things along the way.

The best results come from collaboration –  you bring the vision, and we’ll bring it to life.


A tight brief isn’t about knowing all the answers – it’s about knowing yourself and being open and clear from the start. It sets the tone for a smooth, exciting and truly personal design journey.

If you’re ready to make your home feel like you (but elevated), let’s get started. We’re all ears.

Contact us today and start your design journey!

Thanks for reading once again,

Emma x

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