Can I Choose My Own Contractor? What Choice is Best for Your Project

When hiring an interior designer, you have two options: bring in your own contractor or work with one recommended by the design firm. Both approaches can work, but it really depends on your comfort level, the contractor’s experience, and how well they collaborate with the design team.

If you already have a contractor you trust—maybe they built your last home or handled a previous renovation—this could be a great fit. The key question is: was the experience smooth? Did they communicate well and deliver quality work? If so, your designer will likely be open to working with them. That said, not every contractor is used to collaborating with interior designers. Some might deviate from approved plans, make changes on their own, or struggle with high-end finishes. If that happens, it could lead to more oversight from you or your designer to keep things on track.

Ask yourself:

• Did they communicate well and follow the plan?

• Was their work high-quality?

• Were they easy to work with?

On the flip side, using a contractor your designer already knows can make the process seamless. These are professionals they’ve worked with before, which means strong communication, fewer surprises, and a clear understanding of expectations. Some specialize in historic homes, others in commercial spaces or high-end finishes. The advantage? Your designer can match the right contractor to your specific project, ensuring everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

Using a contractor your designer already knows can streamline the process. These contractors:

• Have an established relationship with the design team.

• Understand high-end materials and finishes.

• Are reliable and used to working on similar projects.

So how do you decide? Think about how involved you want to be. If you prefer a hands-off approach and trust your designer’s expertise, their recommended contractor is a great choice. If you have a contractor you love and they’re open to collaboration, that can work too. Either way, a good conversation upfront is the best way to set your project up for success.

Not sure where to start? Ask your designer for a contractor vetting guide to help make the right choice!