Frequently Asked Questions

There are many preconceived notions out there regarding Interior Designers and Decorators. The following is a list of frequently asked questions. If you have any specific questions or concerns, please feel free to call us directly or email us.

Why should I hire an interior designer?

You are already used to calling a professional when you have a specific need that requires a professional skill. We rely on doctors, lawyers, and insurance agents every day. Thus, it only makes sense that you would call an interior designer to help you with your home. A home is one of the single, largest investments most people will ever make. Interior Designers are professionals who know where to find the items you want, how to put them together, and how to work with architects, builders and suppliers. In the end, they will always be a resource for you, and might even become a good friend!

When should I hire an interior designer?

If you are struggling with how to place your furniture or choosing that perfect paint color or how to get window treatments and accessories that look like the ones in the magazines, it is probably time to think about hiring a design professional. When you hire an interior designer, you get the benefit of an experienced professional who can ease your mind, solve problems, help you avoid costly mistakes and best of all, create an attractive, affordable space designed specifically to meet your lifestyle needs.

How do I find an interior designer that is right for me?

The best way to find a designer is to ask family and friends who have similar tastes and/or project needs as you if they have had success with a designer. You may also want to search the web for sites like The American Society of Interior Designers (www.asid.org). Many designers do not have websites but the ones that do usually display samples of their work and share their design philosophies. Home and lifestyle magazines and sections of newspapers also feature information on various designers. Another fun option is to visit local design showhouses. The complimentary showhouse booklet is normally filled with bios and other information on how to get in touch with the designers featured in the showhouse. The bottom line is first impressions are everything. Hiring an interior designer is a very personal decision. You need to select someone whom you feel has your best interests at heart and will take your ideas and concerns seriously while always making you feel comfortable. Keep in mind that different designers have different personalities, working styles and business methods. Dont feel pressured to work with someone you are not comfortable with, regardless of reputation or recommendation.

After deciding to hire an interior designer, what should I do next?

Take some time to think about what you want, what you need, what you can afford and what is most important to you. Do you want to select new finishes for your 20-year old kitchen? Do you want to turn your master bedroom into a peaceful retreat? Are you considering consulting with an architect or builder? Don't be afraid to express your budget limitations with the designer. It doesn't mean they will automatically spend all of your money! Since a designer can save you from making costly mistakes in the first place, you should consider benefiting from his/her experience no matter how large or small your project may be. Sometimes paying for just a consultation will get you going in the right direction.

How should I prepare for my first meeting with an interior designer?

The key to a successful outcome for any project is good communication. We suggest you keep a file of those things that appeal to you - magazine photos, fabric swatches, book illustrations, paint chips etc. - even if you have no idea how to utilize these items. This will help the designer see what colors, patterns and designs you naturally gravitate towards whether you realize it or not! The more direct and specific you are, the easier it will be for the designer to successfully meet your needs and expectations. Don't hesitate to ask questions and keep lots of notes!

How do interior designers charge?

Interior designers generally charge an hourly fee for consultation time plus a fee for each item purchased through their firm. This can be a cost plus fee, a list price fee, or some combination of the two. Designers make their money consulting and sourcing for key items for clients. Some designers charge a flat fee to cover all of the consulting they do on a project. Like other professionals, designers are different from one another in their combination of skills, talents, knowledge, experience, personalities, specialty areas and reputation. Therefore, what they charge will vary accordingly. Likewise, charges will vary depending on the scope of the project. The bottom line is that design is not free. Ultimately, you get what you pay for. An interior designer will and should save you time and money, even if the fees and items seem expensive in the beginning. Don't forget, this should end up being a most enjoyable experience you are paying for!

How long will it take for an interior designer to complete my project?

There is no set answer to this question. The timeline depends largely on how well you communicate to your designer, how well the designer listens to your ideas and responds accordingly, and how much freedom you allow the designer to have. Of course, delivery of custom ordered specialty items can take time as can waiting on certain contractors and artisans. In the end, it is better to take the time to do it right than rush a job and have regrets.

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