FAQ: Answering Our Clients' Most Asked Questions
We’ve rounded up our most frequently asked questions from both prospective + current clients in order to give you a bit more insight on the process of hiring an interior designer
The kitchen in #TheNewportCondo. Photo: Cate Brown Photography
Q: How do I prepare for my initial consultation with an interior designer?
Come prepared. During the consultation we will discuss your goals, thoughts/ideas, budget, and timeframe for the project. You (and your partner, if applicable) should thoroughly think about and discuss all of these bullet points prior to our consultation. Regardless of the type of project- new construction, a full home renovation, or a one-room makeover- you have goals and ideas in mind. Make a list of your thoughts and bring any idea or inspiration photos you’ve collected and saved. It is also important to have a clear understanding of your budget and timeframe. While an interior designer can provide ballpark estimates of how much your project may cost and how long it may take to complete, prior to the consultation you should determine how much you are comfortable spending.
Q: What should my project budget be?
There is no one size fits all answer for this question. Every project is unique. Important factors to consider are your home’s value so that you can invest an amount that makes sense, as well as a clear understanding of your personal financial situation- do you have savings set aside for this project, are you taking out a construction loan, or maybe it’s a combination of the two. Either way you should know what your budget is before you hire a designer and start your project.
Q: How are purchases for the project handled?
If we are providing our Full-Service Design service, all purchasing goes through us. Typically, we will work together to determine the furniture, lighting, tile, wallpaper and fabric for your project and we will handle everything from ordering, tracking, receiving, inspecting, delivery, and installation. If we are providing our LUXE Design service, we supply you with a shopping list and you will purchase all of the items directly for your project.
Q: Can you integrate my favorite pieces of furniture or accessories into the design?
Absolutley!
Q: I don’t know what style I want – can you still help?
Yes. It is not uncommon for our clients to feel unsure of what style they like or how they want their home to look. Our first task will be looking through an assortment of design style photos together, this visual exercise will help you communicate to me what design styles, colors and aesthetics you do and don’t like. Once we have a clear understanding of your design style preference, we can define what kind of look we want to achieve for your project.
Q: I’m building a new home, how will you collaborate with my contractor?
We understand that some projects, like the construction of a new home, require the expertise of a number of individuals such as a contractor and an architect. We love to collaborate with these professionals to create our client’s dream home. We prefer to be hired and start our design work at the project’s inception so that our vision for your home’s interior can be included in your architect’s initial plans. We will work with your contractor to make sure their team can execute our designs, or bring in our specialized tradesmen such as a rockstar tile installer or wallpaper hanging proficienato at their request.
Q: I live outside of the Newport area, can you still work for me?
Of course! We travel beyond Newport and the Rhode Island area for Full-Service design projects. Our LUXE Design service can be tailored as an E-Design package, perfect for remote interior design!
Q: Do you have references?
Yes. At your request, we can have one of our past clients reach out to you to share their experience of working with us. Some of our clients have shared kind words about their experience working with us, you can read their testimonials here.