Guide · ZAIA Design

How to choose an interior designer in Bucharest

Almost every designer has a beautiful portfolio. The real differences lie in what they actually deliver, how precise the documents the contractors work from are, and who takes responsibility when something doesn't turn out like the renderings. Here's what's worth checking before you sign.

1. A portfolio of completed projects, not just renderings

Renderings show intent; photos of finished spaces show execution. Ask to see lived-in projects, ideally with before-and-after images, and ask how close the result came to the rendering.

2. What exactly the quote includes

“Interior design project” can mean a moodboard or a full set of documentation. Ask for the list in writing: furniture layout, 3D renderings (how many rooms, how many options), electrical plan, plumbing plan, details for custom-made furniture, purchasing list. Compare quotes on that list, not on the price per square metre.

3. How many revisions are included

A clear number of revision rounds on the concept and the renderings avoids disputes halfway through the project.

4. Who coordinates the build

If you don't have time to follow the site, it matters whether the designer comes to site, checks the work against the project, coordinates deliveries and talks directly to the trades. At ZAIA Design, this is included in the Premium package; with the Basic and Complete packages you receive the documentation, and the build is coordinated by you or your contractor.

5. How purchases are handled

Ask whether the designer receives commission from suppliers, and whether the prices on the purchasing list are retail or negotiated. Transparency here says a lot about the working relationship.

6. Does their style suit you?

A good designer can work in several styles, but the portfolio shows where they feel most at home. If you love a particular project, say so from the first conversation.

7. Realistic timelines

A complete project isn't done in a few days. Measurements, concept, renderings, revisions and technical documentation take time, and a designer who promises everything very quickly is probably skipping steps.

8. Contract and payment stages

A contract with clear stages (concept, design, documentation, coordination) and payments tied to them protects both you and the designer.

The first conversation

At ZAIA Design, the first conversation is free: send us the floor plan and a few photos, and within 48 hours you'll receive a clear estimate, with no obligation. See also how much an interior designer costs.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between an interior designer and an interior architect?

In practice, in Romania the two terms are often used interchangeably for interior design work. What matters is what they deliver: concept, renderings, technical documentation and, where applicable, build coordination.

What should I receive from an interior designer?

At the very least, a dimensioned furniture layout. In a complete project: 3D renderings, electrical and plumbing plans, details for custom-made furniture and a purchasing list.