To execute a complete vision, you need to bring in other people. But finding the right people—that’s the tricky part.

Without a reliable cadre of contractors and tradespeople, interior design as we know it would not be possible. While anyone with access to the internet can find an electrician or a wallpaper installer, identifying subcontractors who consistently do outstanding work and respect a designer’s vision is not unlike hiring a new employee: It can be a challenging task, and finding the right fit truly makes a difference.

Becky Shea