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5 Common Misconceptions about Interior Design

  • Writer: Joshua Allen Design Team
    Joshua Allen Design Team
  • Sep 13, 2021
  • 4 min read

The interior design industry is filled with all kinds of stereotypes and misconceptions which unfortunately can discourage somebody from wanting to work with an interior designer. We love what we do and we believe in what we do with a passion! At Joshua Allen Design, we are here to break the stigma that interior design isn't for everybody, because it is. We've gathered 5 common misconceptions that we come across all the time, and we want to set the record straight. In this blog, we will explain what an interior designer actually does and, more importantly, why you should not be reluctant to work with one.



#1) Hiring an interior designer is way too expensive. This is not true! A common misconception is people believe that hiring a designer requires a large base income, but this is far from the truth! At Joshua Allen Design we pride ourselves on bringing interior design to the every day person, and we work within any budget. Interior design is not reserved for the rich. Contrary to what the media might show, interior design IS for everybody. We are here to help our clients transform their spaces within ANY budget. We help our clients make well-informed purchase decisions. We simply give you our recommendations and you can purchase from any vendor of your choice! Oftentimes, we can even help you save money (surprising, I know) because with the help and advice of a designer you avoid making any costly design mistakes.



#2) Interior design is only necessary in larger spaces. No room is too small! It is a designers job to transform even the most challenging spaces into functional and appealing living spaces. Home offices, laundry rooms, mudrooms, foyers, pantry, etc. You name it, we've designed it! No job is too small, if you have an awkward room in your home that you're not quite sure what to do with, you need the help of an interior designer! There is nothing we dislike more than a room being wasted space - we can help transform that awkward space into a functioning room that your family can use.



#3) The designer calls all the shots. False - we value your opinion a lot! After all, it is YOUR home, it should reflect who YOU are as a person. We as designers are here to help as much or as little as needed. We never let our personal preferences get in the way of our client's taste or style. We put the time and effort into learning your design style, and we create spaces that showcase your personality! At Joshua Allen Design, we love being able to work with all different customers with all different styles. You're unique and we see that, so we are committed to creating spaces as unique as the individuals living in them! We don't believe design is one size fits all. How boring would the world of design be without diversity?



#4) Interior design means buying all new stuff. Reimagining your space does not mean you need to start from scratch! You do not need to ditch all your existing furniture for your space to feel fresh & new. Let us know the elements of your space that you love and we will incorporate modern trends that will complement your existing pieces. For instance, if you have a sofa and a coffee table in your living room that you absolutely love... that's great! We will simply use those pieces for inspiration when creating your design. Again, updating your space doesn't need to break the bank! At Joshua Allen Design we are all for saving money when you can - why fix something that's not broken, right?



#5) Interior design is only about decorating and colors. Many people get interior design and interior decorating confused. Some believe designers only work with colors, fabrics, and decor, but really that's only a small fraction of what the job is. We specialize in spacial planning, so we don't just enhance the look of your space we also enhance the functionality of your overall space. We help with everything from color selection and space layout to professional sourcing of lighting and furnishings. Once the details of your project are determined and planned, we begin digitally designing your space. We plan your space, create digital floor plans, 3D renders (pictured above) virtual walk-throughs, and elevated drawings. There is a lot that goes on behind closed doors, and many people don't understand what an interior designer does on a day-to-day basis.


We really hope this helped to clear up what it's actually like to work with an interior designer. We would hate for anybody to miss out on the opportunity to work hand in hand with a designer, all because of a few silly misconceptions. Your home is meant to be your happy place, right? So why shouldn't EVERYBODY be able to have their dream home!




As always, we appreciate any ideas, input, and feedback from our community and clients. So drop us a line in the comments below, chat with us on our Facebook page or email us at josh@joshuaallendesign.com! Don't forget to follow us on instagram (@joshuaallendesign) Twitter (@j_allen_design) and subscribe to our YouTube channel, where we post new design-related videos each week!

 
 
 

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Interior Design Services in Massachusetts

Joshua Allen Design provides professional interior design services across Massachusetts, offering residential and commercial solutions tailored to every client’s lifestyle and vision. Our team specializes in space planning, color consultation, furnishings, and full-service renovations. Whether you need a kitchen remodel in Boston, a luxurious bathroom redesign in Cape Cod, or a modern update to a suburban home in Worcester, we deliver transformative interiors that reflect your taste and add lasting value. As a leading interior designer in Massachusetts, Joshua Allen Design combines creativity, technical skill, and extensive experience to ensure each space is beautiful, functional, and timeless. From small-scale updates to full home makeovers, we bring ideas to life with meticulous attention to detail and an unparalleled commitment to client satisfaction.

Kitchen Renovation and Custom Kitchen Design

At Joshua Allen Design, we believe the kitchen is the heart of the home. Our kitchen renovation services are tailored to enhance functionality, efficiency, and style. From custom cabinetry and kitchen islands to luxury finishes and top-grade appliances, we design kitchens that work for how you live. Whether your goal is a rustic farmhouse kitchen, a sleek contemporary space, or a traditional chef’s kitchen, our expert design team brings a unique perspective that transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary culinary environments. We specialize in high-end kitchen remodels throughout Massachusetts, using top materials and trusted contractors. Clients love our seamless design-build process and personalized approach that ensures a stunning, one-of-a-kind result.

Luxury Bathroom Design and Remodeling

Joshua Allen Design offers elegant, spa-inspired bathroom renovations that maximize comfort and value. We specialize in luxury bathroom design services including walk-in showers, custom vanities, freestanding tubs, heated flooring, and high-end tile work. Whether you’re updating a powder room, adding a master ensuite, or renovating a full guest bath, our team will craft a custom solution that elevates your lifestyle. We work with clients to choose timeless finishes, modern fixtures, and smart layouts that enhance everyday function. With experience managing both new builds and older home renovations, we ensure plumbing, lighting, and materials align perfectly with your design goals.

Basement Finishing and Creative Lower-Level Design

Unlock the hidden potential of your home with Joshua Allen Design’s basement finishing and design services. We transform underutilized spaces into cozy living rooms, home offices, media centers, fitness studios, guest suites, and more. Our interior designers are skilled at optimizing low-light areas with smart layouts, lighting plans, and material choices that create inviting, comfortable environments. Whether you want a family-friendly basement or a high-end entertainment space, we deliver designs that blend functionality and beauty. Our basement remodels focus on adding square footage, increasing home value, and creating personalized areas that support your lifestyle.

Whole Home Renovations and Space Planning

Joshua Allen Design is your trusted partner for whole-home renovations and strategic space planning. We assess how each room connects, ensuring flow, function, and beauty throughout your home. Our team manages everything from floor plan redesigns and structural updates to furnishings, paint palettes, and custom millwork. We excel at transforming outdated layouts into open-concept living areas with cohesive, elevated aesthetics. Whether you’re restoring a historic New England home or customizing a newly built property, we bring experience and inspiration to every step of the process. Our mission is to make the most of every square foot, creating luxurious, livable spaces tailored to you.

Decorating Services and Seasonal Styling

Joshua Allen Design offers full-service decorating and seasonal home styling that reflects your taste and enhances your space year-round. From furniture selection and art placement to window treatments, color coordination, and accessorizing, our decorating services elevate your home’s style. We offer seasonal décor installations—holiday-ready entries, spring refreshes, cozy fall interiors, and festive winter arrangements—perfect for entertaining or celebrating at home. Whether you're styling a new property, staging for resale, or simply craving a design refresh, our expert eye ensures your space always looks stunning. We source from trusted vendors and incorporate heirloom pieces or custom accents to give your home a unique, lived-in elegance.

Closet Design and Custom Storage Solutions

Our team designs custom closet systems and storage solutions that are both beautiful and functional. From walk-in closets and pantries to mudrooms and laundry spaces, Joshua Allen Design helps maximize storage without sacrificing style. We assess your space, needs, and personal aesthetic to create built-in cabinetry, open shelving, and organizational systems that streamline daily routines. Whether you prefer minimalist design or boutique-style elegance, we design custom closets using high-quality materials and smart planning. Our solutions are ideal for modern families, busy professionals, and anyone craving an organized, stylish home.

Virtual Interior Design and E-Design Services

Joshua Allen Design proudly offers virtual interior design services to clients across the U.S. Through our e-design process, we provide concept boards, digital layouts, product recommendations, and custom plans tailored to your space and budget. Our remote services are perfect for DIY homeowners, second homes, or clients outside our local service area. Even without in-person meetings, we deliver the same level of creativity, detail, and personalized care. Whether you're furnishing a single room or renovating an entire property, our online design packages offer flexible, affordable options guided by expert designers.

Our Design Philosophy – “We See Space Differently”

At Joshua Allen Design, we approach every project with a singular philosophy: we see space differently. Our design process begins with listening—to your needs, your habits, and your dreams for the space. Then we layer in creativity, color theory, technical skill, and years of industry experience. Our unique ability to reimagine interiors helps clients uncover potential they never knew existed. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Each project is a bespoke collaboration resulting in a space that is both functional and extraordinary. Whether it’s a single-room refresh or a full-scale remodel, we create interiors that are authentic, timeless, and deeply personal.

Why Choose Joshua Allen Design?

Choosing Joshua Allen Design means partnering with a trusted team that’s passionate about design and committed to excellence. We’ve built our reputation on integrity, communication, and a client-first mindset. Our full-service interior design firm handles every detail—from concept to installation—ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. With years of experience in residential design, renovation, and construction coordination, we have the skills and network to execute projects of any size or complexity. Our clients appreciate our refined aesthetic, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to bring vision to life. Whether your style is modern, traditional, transitional, or eclectic, we are here to design a home that reflects your identity and inspires joy every day.