The house renovation is finally complete, feeling like I've accomplished a major project in life. I couldn't wait to take many photos and share them on my朋友圈, receiving more likes than ever before, and many friends expressing their desire to visit. However, after posting, I felt like something was left undone. It took me a while to realize that I had been boasting about the work without mentioning the designer, Mr. Jiang Jianye. This thank-you letter is to express my gratitude for Mr. Jiang's talent and dedication, and also to offer some advice to those looking for great designers.
Initially, I hadn't intended to hire an interior designer; many people share the same misconception that since most renovation companies offer design services, why spend extra money on a designer? However, luck was on my side during a dinner gathering when a friend strongly recommended it. He explained the benefits from both budget and outcome perspectives. He said, generally, renovation companies...35%The contractor is subcontracted, and then the renovation company takes the materials.1Construction companies are barely making any profit, so many resort to misleading add-ons to "create profits." However, designers can help you coordinate everything during the renovation, which may seem costly but actually saves money!
In addition to the economic aspect, the results are as such. Generally, designers from renovation companies lack business acumen and have low base salaries. The ability to sign contracts and mass-produce designs is what matters, leading to a monotonous output. Sometimes, they can churn out "designs" for dozens of projects in a month. This is vastly different from designers with design skills, aesthetic sense, and insights into life, who only produce a few designs a year.
So, to get back to my situation, after consulting with Professor Jiang Jianye, he designed the鲁能 for me.7The house at No. 8 Courtyard, a duplex. Both my partner and I hope the style of the house exudes elegance and luxury, yet we don't want excessive embellishments or constraints. We desire the house to maintain a sense of ease and informality amidst its refinement and practicality. I was initially afraid my demands were too high and vague, posing a challenge to Teacher Jiang. However, to my surprise, Teacher Jiang quickly grasped my thoughts and clearly articulated the general style I was seeking.
After taking over, Teacher Jiang fully comprehended our aesthetic and lifestyle from initial communication to户型 design planning, from hard construction to soft furnishings and color coordination. From wall colors, floor colors and materials, to the size, shape, and light intensity of lighting fixtures, as well as the material and overall style of furniture... all of which were enhanced with the designer's artistic sensibility. For instance, the living room and dining room on the ground floor were separated by a hollow screen, ensuring each space's functionality while also expanding the visual openness of the living room. The living room itself blends large-scale European and Chinese elements, exuding romance, delicacy, and a classical charm. I think the home decor is fantastic. Although I'm not deeply knowledgeable in design, my passion for photography and art allows me to be acutely aware of these design highlights!
During my conversation with Teacher Jiang, I mentioned my wish for the room to have some elegant embellishments. Teacher Jiang simply nodded, little did I know that the design would excel in this aspect. For instance, the dining room's color coordination is refreshing, but I won't elaborate further. The five round pendant lamps look like vibrant and artistic pieces when they're not lit during the day, and friends always praise them. These were designed and selected by Teacher Jiang for me, and I think they look fantastic, which makes me very happy. The study on the upper floor also made great use of the space, with the bookshelf, desk, and a resting futon, all of which are well laid out. Even the paintings of birds and houses perched on books resonate with the ambiance of the study. A great designer truly has a profound sense of情怀, and their attention to detail is impeccable.
In addition to his strong design skills and meticulous attention to detail, Teacher Jiang also boasts exceptional coordination and project control abilities. The excellent completion of each stage—design, construction, materials, styling, soft furnishings, color coordination, and acceptance—can be attributed to Teacher Jiang's efforts. Moreover, he genuinely assists homeowners in budget control at every turn. For instance, when selecting materials at the main material market, he doesn't opt for the most expensive options but rather chooses the "right" ones. By purchasing quality products, he has managed to reduce the budget by at least one-fifth compared to the initial estimate. Don't underestimate that one-fifth; many people have experience with this. Most of the time, hiring someone to renovate results in exceeding the budget, let alone saving so much.
I appreciate Teacher Jiang not only for helping us with the renovation, decoration, and functional planning, but also for truly treating us, the homeowners, as friends. He assists in planning our future lives, placing a strong emphasis on communication. He pays attention to both the style and aesthetics of every detail and incorporates our life needs. This is something that deeply resonates with me and meets my satisfaction.
So much to say, but let's end with my suggestion. People have different understandings of home renovation. Some prioritize aesthetics, others focus on practicality, some value comfort, and some are more concerned with functionality. I believe most people want to incorporate all these aspects within a limited budget. To achieve this, you absolutely need a great designer, and I highly recommend Jiang Jianye Teacher. You can count on them not to disappoint.
