Frequently Asked Questions
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Once you reach out to me, we will schedule a 30 min discovery phone call. During this call, I will ask you some questions, to get a better understanding of what your interior project needs and wants are, and will answer any questions or concerns you might have. At the end of this conversation you will have a much clearer idea if working with me is something you can benefit from. You can always schedule a home design consultation, to see what’s it like to work with me.
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You have full control over your budget, and I will never push you to buy and pay for something that you don't want. At the beginning of every project I get a "feel" for what your personal priorities are, and retain that information throughout our working relationship. I will direct and suggest, never force any of my ideas. Great design can be accomplished at different budgets.
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You will know it once you see the final design plan, and before we start implementing it. You will also notice that from the very first conversation, I’ll be curious to know who you are and what you care about. I may not capture your personality at the preliminary design, but you will notice that I pay very close attention to your feedback. The results will reflect it.
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It depends on your project scope and personal needs. After I get a better sense of your project, I can give you an estimate of the cost.
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Yes, I do. I call it "designer on demand" . This service is tailored specifically for design enthusiasts like you. While you are the driver of your project, I am your navigation system, helping your take the right turns and avoid the wrong ones.
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To help stay within budget, I create a spreadsheet that includes all expenses that are estimated to be included in your project - materials and labor. This way to can have a clear idea of all costs before purchasing or committing to any major work.
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Your first 2hr consultation will cost $350. If you need some more time or additional sessions, my hourly rate is $150/hr
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Yes! I use multiple visualization tools for every project. From a sophisticated 3D computer program, that can show you alternative layouts (kitchen/bath layout, furniture floor plan) to superimposing alternative materials and fixtures to an existing room (great for selecting lighting fixtures for example), to large painted boards that I use to help my clients select paint colors. With all these tools, me and my clients are able to see the "after" photos at the beginning of the project, making any expensive purchases.
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Architects and designers have overlapping responsibilities, which creates confusion regarding the kind of projects they can or can't do. As an interior designer, I can plan and design any interior that is within an existing structure. This means I can redesign kitchens, bathrooms, basements and entire floors, including reconfiguring walls. What I don't do - any structural work, whether it's designing an addition or reconfiguring demolition of a structural element such as a retaining wall or staircase. In this case, a licensed architect or structural engineer should be involved in the project.
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Of course. you are not alone. Some of my clients get overwhelmed but too many choices, so I limit the choices to only a few that are all good.
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A major piece of my profession is being a therapist, and unlike many other designers, I enjoy this part of my work very much. I find that bridging between two people who share their life and home is possible because as a third party I have the advantage of seeing the situation from a less emotional involved vantage point. Often times, what helps is that i am able to come up with new ideas that can bridge the gap, or simply communicate visual ideas in a clear way to both sides. A sense of humor is also very helpful to have to lighten up the conversation.
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Yes. Having a clear design plan, including plumbing, electrical and framing, is not only necessary for contractors to price your project, but it's essential for getting permits. I can help you design the perfect layout, as well as a "scope of project" document which contractors will be able to price quicker and more accurately. It will also ensure that you don't go into the construction phase not knowing what you want, or changing your mind during construction, which will add unforeseen costs, and long delays.
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Yes. The best way to start is with a 2 hr consultation. You will get a lot of ideas you haven't thought about, which you can chose to implement on your own, or hire me to help you with the implementation. After the consultation, i will send you a report on what we discussed .
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Absolutely! I love to reuse items you have and like because it helps you save money (and the environment), while creating a space that has some personal touch and history.
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While I am fully aware of the trends, I strive to create a home that reflects my clients personality and life style, while suggesting that expensive projects like kitchens and bathroom remodels will be designed with a much longer shelf life then changing trends. This means going more classic and timeless for expensive projects, and perhaps more trendy for cheaper ones.