Can’t I do this by myself?
It is possible, but you probably will not end up with a cohesive space (with all of the problems, that you might not even be aware of) solved. Also, it can be a huge headache to manage all the plans, colors, materials and workers. We take the headache out of the process for you.
How do you charge?
First there is a design fee, which covers the design concept and plan. Once that is approved, you will be asked for a retainer, and will also be billed twice a month for the hours worked on your project.
How does this process work?
You will meet with the designer in the space to be worked on and if you agree to move forward, a design fee will be retained and a contract signed. A design assistant may return to your home, with or without the designer, for measurements and pictures. About two weeks later, you will meet with the designer to go over the design concept. This may include floor plans, fabric samples, pictures of furniture, sketches of window coverings and the like. Adjustments are made, a proposal is signed, a deposit for the goods is received by us and we begin the purchasing. A shopping trip may ensue, the inevitable problems that no one saw coming are solved and the items are installed. At the end, photos are taken and any unresolved issues are taken care of.
How do we buy product?
We have vendors that are only sell to interior designers (thus ensuring a unique space for you) that we are able to buy fabrics, furniture, etc, from. They sell to us near wholesale and we mark up the product 35%. So, you are not paying retail, as you would in a store, rather, a marked up from cost price. For example, a $1000 table from Macy's, if purchased through us, would cost you $675.
How long does it take?
The average process can take from 3-6 months depending upon the scope of the work being done and how available the products are. Of course, it can take longer for larger or full custom jobs.
How long before we order anything?
After the design concept meeting and the adjustments are made , then the product is ordered.
Do you hire the contractors?
No, we are not general contractors that can hire out sub-contractors. So, by law, the contractors are hired by the client. However, we have many trades’ people that we love to use and a favorite general contractor as well. They are awesome at their trades and we feel that their work is worthy of representing us. We will be involved in meeting with them to cover all the items specified and clarify/solve any problems that we know about or that they bring up at the walk through. We do get the bids from these people for you. Of course, you are more than welcome to obtain additional bids.
