How to get interior design advice for free

Known for their flat packs and hacks, it turns out Ikea stores are also staffed with interior designers who are ready to answer all of your questions.

Tiffany Buckins, Head of Interior Design at Ikea, said there are up to 20 interior designers working at Ikea stores.

"[The team] know the range better than anybody and they understand all of the solutions that we have to offer, between hidden storage, removable covers on sofas, to modularity in sofas and storage," she said. 

Before making a trip to Ikea there are a few things customers need to come prepared with.

“The first step is to go through and understand what’s really happening within your space,” said Tiffany. 

Think about how you want to use your space before setting foot in a store.

“What are the activities that are happening inside your living room? When you’re all together with your family, what are you actually doing within that space? What brings you joy? Is it games night? Is it movie night? Is it being able to have everything within easy reach?” she added. 

Additionally, it’s important to know what’s working and what isn’t but also what some of the challenges are that you are facing.

And if you can’t figure out a solution to your problems, that’s when you go to Ikea.

This article originally appeared on Better Homes and Gardens.