General Questions

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Q: What is the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator?

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A: While the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a significant difference. An interior decorator focuses on the aesthetics of a space, such as furniture, color palettes, and accessories. An interior designer, on the other hand, is a trained professional who can also handle the technical aspects of a project, including space planning, structural changes, and working with architects and contractors.

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Q: Why should I hire an interior designer?

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A: Hiring a professional can save you time, money, and stress. A designer can help you avoid costly mistakes, create a cohesive vision, and provide access to a wider range of resources and products. They also act as a project manager, coordinating with various tradespeople to ensure the project stays on track and on budget.

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Q: Can you work with my existing furniture and decor?

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A: Absolutely! We love incorporating existing pieces that you love and that have sentimental value. We can help you edit your current items and determine what will work best in your new design, or even suggest ways to refinish or reupholster them to give them a new life.

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Q: My project is very small. Is that okay?

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A: Yes! No project is too small. Whether you're looking for a simple room refresh, help with a single piece of furniture, or a full-scale renovation, we can tailor our services to fit your needs.

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The Design Process

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Q: What does the design process look like?

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A: Our process typically involves several phases:

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1. Initial Consultation: We'll meet to discuss your project, your needs, your lifestyle, and your budget.

2. Concept & Design Development: We create a design concept, including floor plans, mood boards, 3D digital renderings, and material selections, for your review.

3. Procurement: Once the design is approved, we handle all the ordering and purchasing of furniture, materials, and accessories.

4. Implementation & Installation: We oversee the project, coordinate with contractors, and manage the final installation to bring the design to life.

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Q: How do I prepare for our first meeting?

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A: The more information you can provide, the better. Consider what you want to accomplish, how you and your family use the space, and what you like and dislike. It's also very helpful to collect inspiration images from magazines, Pinterest, or Houzz to help us understand your personal style.  We'll be happy to provide a design questionnaire to assist in organizing your thoughts.

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Q: How long will my project take?

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A: The timeline depends on the scope of the project. A single-room redecoration will take much less time than a full home renovation. We will provide you with a detailed timeline during the initial consultation, but on average, projects can range from a few weeks to several months.

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Q: How involved will I be in the process?

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A: Your involvement is entirely up to you. We can work with you every step of the way, or you can give us your vision and let us handle all the details. We provide regular updates and ensure you are comfortable with all major decisions.

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Cost and Budget

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Q: How much do your interior design services cost?

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A: Our pricing varies depending on the scope and complexity of the project. We offer different fee structures, such as a flat project fee, hourly rates, or a combination of both. We will provide a detailed proposal and estimate after our initial consultation.

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Q: Can you work within my budget?

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A: Yes. We work closely with our clients to establish a realistic budget from the beginning. A key part of our job is to help you prioritize spending and make sure your budget is allocated effectively to achieve your goals. We have access to a wide range of vendors and can source items at various price points.

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Q: How do you save me money?

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A: Designers can save you money in several ways. We help you avoid costly mistakes, such as buying furniture that doesn't fit the space. We also have access to "trade-only" resources and can often pass along savings on furniture and materials. Our expertise also ensures the project is completed correctly and efficiently the first time.

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Logistics and Other Questions

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Q: Do you work with clients outside of  the Washington, DC/Metro area?

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A: Yes, we work with clients both locally and remotely. Please contact us to discuss the specifics of your project and location.

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Q: What if I don't like something you present?

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A: Our goal is for you to love your new space. We include time for revisions and feedback in our process. We want to ensure you are comfortable and excited about the design before moving forward with any purchases.

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Q: Can you recommend contractors or other professionals?

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A: Yes, we have a network of trusted and vetted contractors, builders, and tradespeople that we can recommend for your project. We can also happily work with professionals you have already chosen.

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Want to chat further about your design needs?