5 Smart Shopper Tips for the Boston Design Center

Photo credit: Boston Design Center

Congratulations; you’ve finally decided to tackle that home project you’ve been thinking about for ages. But now that you know the Boston Design Center has everything you need to get it done, where should you start?

Here are five tips for savvy shoppers visiting the BDC.

Look online before you visit.

Whether you have specific ideas in mind for your home project or just a vague idea of what you want, browsing the online showrooms is a must. Search by retailers and brands or by product category to get a glimpse of everything the BDC has to offer. After all, with more than 1,200 luxury product lines of fabric, furniture, lighting, antiques, fine art, wall and floor coverings, kitchen and bath design, and contract services, you’re definitely going to need a game plan.

Photo credit: Cheryl Richards

Set a budget.

There’s a lot to love in the new BDC, so make sure you don’t break the bank by setting a firm budget for your project. Ask yourself a few key questions: what products or services do you need versus what you want? What is the highest amount you’re willing to spend to complete your project? Do you have any exact products in mind or are you looking to be inspired? Budgets are subject to fluctuate (especially when you see that one gorgeous piece that you absolutely have to buy) but having a firm price point will help you stay on track.

Bring in photos for inspiration.

Snap a few pics of the room or area you’re looking to shop for so you can better visualize what you want. Not sure if an accent chair or floor lamp would work best in the empty corner of your living room? Use your photos to help you decide. In the same line of thinking, make sure you’re prepared with the right measurements you need for any project. (If that “perfect” accent rug ends up too big for your bedroom floor, it just might break your heart.)

Photo credit: Cheryl Richards

Connect with a Designer on Call.

No one knows the ins and outs of home furnishings better than the designers. Take advantage of the complimentary hour of consultation with a DOC and let them guide you through the center. Visitors can pair with one of the 15 designers in the program for a personal shopper experience. It never hurts to get advice from an expert – especially one who can answer every question that begins with, “So, where can I find…?”

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

If you need more information on a product or service, or if you just can’t make up your mind about what to buy, ask someone! Rely on a DOC for in-depth advice or grab a sales associate for any quick inquiries. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by yourself; remember that everyone is there to help you pull off the project of your dreams.

Photo credit: Boston Design Center

For more information on the newly redesigned Boston Design Center, visit bostondesign.com.