Frequently Asked Questions
I have never worked with a designer. What do I need to know?
Interior designers versed in construction are also known as interior architects, which is a great way to describe what we do. Architects focus the exterior of the home, and make sure that the structure will support itself. Interior designers focus on the inside of the home, and make sure that it will support you. We handle everything from the layout of your rooms to fabric selection, and everything in between.
If you would like to know more about the design process, I lay it all out in a series of blog posts!
Do I need to sign up for a certain amount of work?
Nope! As long as I have the time, I’ll take on just about anything if the vibes are right.
I just bought a new home, so I’m not sure if I can afford a designer.
In this economy! Kidding, but really, it’s a tough time for most of us right now. I’m happy to divide a project into bite-sized pieces if that works better for you. Hiring a designer is an investment, ensuring that you won’t have that dreaded moment of “this didn’t turn out how I expected it to”.
I want my home to look and feel better, but I can’t afford to replace everything.
You definitely don’t need to. I’m happy to work with whatever you have. I furnished my own home using almost exclusively hand-me-downs and Facebook marketplace finds, then invested in key pieces like a sofa, nice wallpaper, and a good kitchen island. This is a strategy I can help you employ as well. Sometimes it can even be more fun to create something new using what you already have!
I’m planning a renovation/new build. What role does a designer play in that?
With construction projects, the earlier you can hire a designer, the better! Don’t wait until construction has started if you can help it. I can work with your architect and builder to make sure you’re getting exactly what you’re asking for... It shouldn’t be your job to review construction drawings.
The best way to tackle a renovation is to have a clear vision for the outcome before you even start. We will choose things like flooring, tile, cabinets, and paint colors up front, before the project starts. No more last minute decisions pushed on you by the building team.
I’m redoing my kitchen or bathroom. How can you help?
Kitchens and bathrooms are often grouped together because they require a lot of the same things: tile, plumbing, and cabinetry. You also need to squeeze a variety of functional features into a sometimes very small space. Of course you want the aesthetic to be cohesive, but in these rooms design goes a lot deeper.
Attention to detail is especially important here. It’s helpful to have a designer on hand because we’re familiar with building code and spatial planning. I will go through all of your desires and needs for these spaces, list them out, and make sure that they are included in the final product. It’s a bit like a puzzle!
Paying for design services for kitchen/bath projects is paying to ensure that this large investment is done properly, and that there are no regrets.
My builder offered to help me with the design of my home.
Unless your builder has an in-house interior designer, chances are they will not have the resources to actually help you with your choices. I’ve seen this on more than one occasion, and unfortunately it usually ends with a stressed out homeowner and a good deal of tension. They may be able to give you practical advice, but the selections will still be yours to make. It would still be beneficial to bring in a designer!
I’m a DIYer. Can I work with you?
Absolutely! I love working with clients who are doing it all themselves. This approach offers a lot of freedom, and is only limited to your skill set. I’ll do the designing, you do the rest.
How do you handle billing?
After our design consultation, I’ll send you a quote for services. The quote is a flat fee based on project scope and projected hours. This is only for the design work - meetings, appointments, and revisions past the original scope will all be billed at an hourly rate.
When we agree to the quote and sign the contract, 25% is due before the project starts, 50% is due at the design presentation, and 25% is due upon finalization of the design. At these intervals I will bill for the hourly appointments and meetings as well.
If, for instance, we’re doing a whole home furnishing, but we’re splitting it up into smaller pieces, we will have a quote, contract, and payment schedule for each portion.
What’s your style?
My personal style could be described as historic New England with European influences. I really value handmade, well loved pieces. I prefer more wood to less. And wallpaper is a must. Checkerboard and stripes are my favorite patterns. I think books and art are really the only accessories you need to make a room amazing.
When it comes to my clients, I design in almost any style - traditional, modern, anything in between. The principles of my design philosophy can be applied across the board, it’s only the forms, colors, and textures that change between all of the different styles. At its core, good design is all the same!
I’m still not sure if this is right for me.
Totally get it. Shoot me a text at 978-317-5718 or email hello@enchantedhome.design and we can set up a time to talk!