Working with a designer is easier when the brief is clear, the feedback is specific, and the project scope is realistic. Instead of using dismissive or vague requests, explain your goals, priorities, budget, timeline, and concerns. Good communication helps the designer produce better work and reduces unnecessary revisions.
What Should You Not Say to a Designer?
1. “Can you do something quickly?”
Design work involves research, planning, creative development, revisions, and preparation of final files. If you have a deadline, share it at the beginning and ask what can realistically be completed within that timeframe.
Say instead: “Our deadline is [date]. Which parts of the project can be completed by then?”
2. “We have not finished the content, but can you start the design?”
Designing without final or near-final content can create avoidable layout problems. Text length, images, headings, and calls to action all affect the finished design.
Say instead: “The content is still being finalized. Can we use a temporary draft, and when do you need the final copy?”
3. “Can you make it look exactly like this?”
Reference images are useful for showing your preferences, but copying another designer’s work can create originality, copyright, and brand problems. Explain what you like about the example, such as its colour palette, layout, mood, or typography.
Say instead: “I like the warm colours, simple layout, and natural materials in this example. Can we create an original design with a similar feeling?”
4. “Can you make lots of different versions?”
Multiple concepts and revisions require additional time. Asking for unlimited alternatives can delay the project and make it harder to choose a clear direction.
Say instead: “How many concepts and revision rounds are included in the agreed scope?”
5. “Can you put it in a format we can edit?”
Editable files may involve different software, licensing, fonts, linked assets, or additional preparation. Discuss the final deliverables before the work begins.
Say instead: “Which file formats will we receive, and is an editable source file included in the fee?”
6. “It should be simple.”
Simple-looking design can require substantial planning and refinement. Describe the outcome you want instead of assuming the work will be quick or inexpensive.
Say instead: “We want a clean, uncluttered result. Which design choices will help achieve that?”
7. “I will know what I like when I see it.”
Designers need useful direction to interpret your preferences. Share examples, dislikes, functional requirements, preferred materials, and the feeling you want the space or project to create.
Say instead: “Here are examples I like and dislike, along with the reasons. Can we use these preferences to guide the concept?”
8. “Can you add just one more change?”
Small changes can affect layouts, specifications, production, and timelines. Group your feedback and confirm whether requested changes are included in the agreed scope.
Say instead: “Here is our consolidated feedback. Please let us know which changes are within scope and whether any will affect the timeline or fee.”
9. “My budget is flexible.”
A clear budget helps a designer recommend suitable materials, furniture, finishes, and solutions. You do not have to disclose every financial detail, but an honest working range improves decision-making.
Say instead: “Our working budget is between [amount] and [amount]. Which options fit that range?”
10. “We do not need a contract.”
A written agreement protects both the client and the designer. It should clarify the scope, deliverables, fees, payment schedule, revisions, timeline, responsibilities, ownership, and cancellation terms.
Say instead: “Please send a written proposal outlining the scope, fees, deliverables, timeline, and revision policy.”
How to Give Better Feedback
- Refer to the project goals instead of making personal comments.
- Explain what is not working and why.
- Prioritize feedback rather than requesting every possible change.
- Nominate one person to collect and approve feedback.
- Respond within the agreed review period.
- Keep comments specific, respectful, and actionable.
- Ask questions before rejecting an unfamiliar idea.
What Designers Need From Clients
- A clear project brief and list of priorities
- Accurate measurements, content, or reference materials
- An honest budget range
- A realistic deadline
- One clear decision-maker
- Timely, consolidated feedback
- Approval of the agreed scope and deliverables
Final Thoughts
The best client-designer relationships are based on clarity, trust, and respect. Avoid vague requests, unrealistic deadlines, unlimited revisions, and comparisons that ask for copied work. Share your goals, budget, timeline, references, and feedback clearly so the designer can develop a thoughtful and effective result.
For related guidance, read what to do before meeting an interior designer, learn how to interior design your home yourself, and explore interior design services.
