Frequently Asked Questions when hiring an interior designer
We know designing a home is a deeply personal journey, and you likely have questions about what to expect. This FAQs page is here to guide you through the process—answering our most commonly asked questions about interior designers, the design process, our services, and more. Whether you're curious about timelines, budget considerations, or what it’s like to work with a designer, we’ve got the answers you need.
Explore the sections below to learn more and feel confident in your next steps.
THE DESIGNER
Choosing the right interior designer is an important step in creating a space that feels both beautiful and personal. But what exactly does an interior designer do, and how do you know if hiring one is the right choice for you?
In this section, we’ll answer questions about the role of a designer, when to bring one into your project, and how to find the perfect fit for your style and needs. You’ll also learn about the areas we serve and what sets us apart from in-store decorators.
THE DESIGNER
Choosing the right interior designer is an important step in creating a space that feels both beautiful and personal. But what exactly does an interior designer do, and how do you know if hiring one is the right choice for you?
In this section, we’ll answer questions about the role of a designer, when to bring one into your project, and how to find the perfect fit for your style and needs. You’ll also learn about the areas we serve and what sets us apart from in-store decorators.
What does an interior designer do?
The simple answer is we evaluate your needs, your architecture, functional requirements and style to create for you a home that tells your story beautifully and practically. Sometimes that means working with your architect at the onset of your project, other times it’s to simply help design and furnish a room.
Why should I hire an interior designer?
We are professionals. We have been educated and have over 35 years of experience doing our design work day in and day out. We have won awards for our designs. We can take your style, needs and dreams for your home, and make them a reality for you. We have resources beyond those of which you’re aware or have access, and we can gently push the design concept just a bit past your comfort zone to create something extraordinary - a truly unique and custom home made specifically for you.
We can save you money. No expensive or embarrassing mistakes. Your furniture will fit, and be the right scale for your space; your colors will work and flow throughout your house. That gorgeous fabric you loved as a swatch doesn’t look quite the same when it’s a wall of drapery, does it? That perfect chair and fabric you found is faded and the cushions flat after just a year. Do you want to add to the landfill, or choose what will be perfect and long-lasting for your home?
We can save you time. We know what needs to be done and in what order. We know where and to whom to go for what we need. We can anticipate (most!) obstacles. We know what might work, and what certainly won’t no matter how perfect it might seem.
We can provide for you the “wow” factor. We think outside the box. We are trained to think spatially and creatively. We pay attention to detail. We understand why something works, how to build a design that will measurably enhance your well-being and productivity. We create joy!
When should I hire an interior designer?
If you are building a new home, or remodeling an existing one, the sooner you have an interior designer on the team the more design choices you’ll have and the less money you’ll spend.
When we see the architect’s drawings, we can all work together to be sure details are addressed then, which could become quite a bit more costly if attention were paid to them later in the building process.
The architect may not be aware of the need for floor electrical outlets to be placed just so, or that the fireplace surround is going to require additional support due to its weight. The gorgeous ceiling detailing may not align with how the space will ultimately be used, or the kitchen may not accommodate 2 cooks at the same time (or a lower counter for kneading bread!).
The antique rugs you’ve had in your family for generations don’t have a room large enough to hold them, and the only wall space for your art collection is directly opposite bright windows where they will be damaged by the sun.
You may really want motorized window shades, but the sills may not be deep enough to position them properly. And you really do need additional storage built into the room - it might be a perfect place for window seats with drawers below.
In addition, the architect might want to specify a particular flooring material, or stone for the counters. We’ll want to be sure the texture and colors will work successfully with the fabrics and rugs you’ll want.
Think of creating a 3-dimensional painting in which you’ll get to live. All the parts - the colors, the type of paint, the forms, shapes and scale will need to work together. All the design should be sketched out together - both the architecture and the interiors. They all need to blend seamlessly, so the form of the building moves you comfortably to your perfect sofa.
What cities do you work in?
Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we primarily work in San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma and Napa. Projects have taken us to Portola Valley, San Jose, Lake Tahoe and New York. Southern California projects include those in Montecito.
If the project and clients are aligned with our work, we can literally design anywhere in the world through our network of resources, Zoom and technology. We have even completed projects without ever setting foot in the actual space.
How do I choose the right designer for me?
The short answer is someone who has experience, has some sort of accreditation (ASID, IIDA), and most importantly, someone who you feel can really hear what you’re saying. Not simply the words, but truly gets what you’re trying to communicate, and understands the energy you’re looking for in your home.
Integrity, honesty, intuitiveness and creativity are also key. The designer should be your advocate, and have the ability to offer solutions in a range of quality and price points.
I wrote a short article that may be of help, “The 3 Most Important Questions to Ask When Hiring an Interior Designer”. You can access it HERE.
Can an interior designer buy more than I can?
Yes. Much more. Not only are there a myriad of trade-only resources available to you through a professional designer, we can most-times access retail products at a discount, or go directly to the manufacturer, thereby bypassing the enormous mark-ups retail shops need to include in their pricing.
As well, we can create custom furniture, custom rugs, custom lighting - really whatever might be needed for your unique design dreams. We have decades of building relationships with furniture makers, rug makers, upholsters, fabric houses, metal workers and just about any craft or artisan product you can imagine.
This means the sizes will be perfect, the finishes just right, and the pieces completely designed and made just for you.
What is your style?
Some designers work in a very specific style. It may be farmhouse, mid-century modern, traditional European, modern Italian, early-American and so on.
Stacey was born and raised in Connecticut, which exposed her to New England and European design influences. She has lived in California for over 40 years. Her Asian influences, Mexican and Spanish styles and Michael Taylor’s “California” design inform her work. Being well-traveled, Stacey soaks up design ideas from around the world, from Europe to Africa, Central and South America to the Caribbean and beyond. Her Fine Art studies (she has a BFA from the University of CT) allow her to marry and meld all of these influences based on the needs and styles of her client into beautiful and appropriate interiors.
Why you, instead of an in-store decorator?
Though there are some qualified designers working in retail, their job is to sell their product, not necessarily what’s best for you and your project. Most in-store people don’t have the breadth of experience, education and knowledge that independent designers are able to provide their clients. We can bring to your project the most appropriate ideas and products from a myriad of sources, even those manufacturers that private-label to the retailers for better pricing and options.
What does an interior designer do?
The simple answer is we evaluate your needs, your architecture, functional requirements and style to create for you a home that tells your story beautifully and practically. Sometimes that means working with your architect at the onset of your project, other times it’s to simply help design and furnish a room.
Why should I hire an interior designer?
We are professionals. We have been educated and have over 35 years of experience doing our design work day in and day out. We have won awards for our designs. We can take your style, needs and dreams for your home, and make them a reality for you. We have resources beyond those of which you’re aware or have access, and we can gently push the design concept just a bit past your comfort zone to create something extraordinary - a truly unique and custom home made specifically for you.
We can save you money. No expensive or embarrassing mistakes. Your furniture will fit, and be the right scale for your space; your colors will work and flow throughout your house. That gorgeous fabric you loved as a swatch doesn’t look quite the same when it’s a wall of drapery, does it? That perfect chair and fabric you found is faded and the cushions flat after just a year. Do you want to add to the landfill, or choose what will be perfect and long-lasting for your home?
We can save you time. We know what needs to be done and in what order. We know where and to whom to go for what we need. We can anticipate (most!) obstacles. We know what might work, and what certainly won’t no matter how perfect it might seem.
We can provide for you the “wow” factor. We think outside the box. We are trained to think spatially and creatively. We pay attention to detail. We understand why something works, how to build a design that will measurably enhance your well-being and productivity. We create joy!
When should I hire an interior designer?
If you are building a new home, or remodeling an existing one, the sooner you have an interior designer on the team the more design choices you’ll have and the less money you’ll spend.
When we see the architect’s drawings, we can all work together to be sure details are addressed then, which could become quite a bit more costly if attention were paid to them later in the building process.
The architect may not be aware of the need for floor electrical outlets to be placed just so, or that the fireplace surround is going to require additional support due to its weight. The gorgeous ceiling detailing may not align with how the space will ultimately be used, or the kitchen may not accommodate 2 cooks at the same time (or a lower counter for kneading bread!).
The antique rugs you’ve had in your family for generations don’t have a room large enough to hold them, and the only wall space for your art collection is directly opposite bright windows where they will be damaged by the sun.
You may really want motorized window shades, but the sills may not be deep enough to position them properly. And you really do need additional storage built into the room - it might be a perfect place for window seats with drawers below.
In addition, the architect might want to specify a particular flooring material, or stone for the counters. We’ll want to be sure the texture and colors will work successfully with the fabrics and rugs you’ll want.
Think of creating a 3-dimensional painting in which you’ll get to live. All the parts - the colors, the type of paint, the forms, shapes and scale will need to work together. All the design should be sketched out together - both the architecture and the interiors. They all need to blend seamlessly, so the form of the building moves you comfortably to your perfect sofa.
How do I choose the right designer for me?
The short answer is someone who has experience, has some sort of accreditation (ASID, IIDA), and most importantly, someone who you feel can really hear what you’re saying. Not simply the words, but truly gets what you’re trying to communicate, and understands the energy you’re looking for in your home.
Integrity, honesty, intuitiveness and creativity are also key. The designer should be your advocate, and have the ability to offer solutions in a range of quality and price points.
I wrote a short article that may be of help, “The 3 Most Important Questions to Ask When Hiring an Interior Designer”. You can access it HERE.
Can an interior designer buy more than I can?
Yes. Much more. Not only are there a myriad of trade-only resources available to you through a professional designer, we can most-times access retail products at a discount, or go directly to the manufacturer, thereby bypassing the enormous mark-ups retail shops need to include in their pricing.
As well, we can create custom furniture, custom rugs, custom lighting - really whatever might be needed for your unique design dreams. We have decades of building relationships with furniture makers, rug makers, upholsters, fabric houses, metal workers and just about any craft or artisan product you can imagine.
This means the sizes will be perfect, the finishes just right, and the pieces completely designed and made just for you.
What is your style?
Some designers work in a very specific style. It may be farmhouse, mid-century modern, traditional European, modern Italian, early-American and so on.
Stacey was born and raised in Connecticut, which exposed her to New England and European design influences. She has lived in California for over 40 years. Her Asian influences, Mexican and Spanish styles and Michael Taylor’s “California” design inform her work. Being well-traveled, Stacey soaks up design ideas from around the world, from Europe to Africa, Central and South America to the Caribbean and beyond. Her Fine Art studies (she has a BFA from the University of CT) allow her to marry and meld all of these influences based on the needs and styles of her client into beautiful and appropriate interiors.
Why you, instead of an in-store decorator?
Though there are some qualified designers working in retail, their job is to sell their product, not necessarily what’s best for you and your project. Most in-store people don’t have the breadth of experience, education and knowledge that independent designers are able to provide their clients. We can bring to your project the most appropriate ideas and products from a myriad of sources, even those manufacturers that private-label to the retailers for better pricing and options.
What cities do you work in?
Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we primarily work in San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma and Napa. Projects have taken us to Portola Valley, San Jose, Lake Tahoe and New York. Southern California projects include those in Montecito.
If the project and clients are aligned with our work, we can literally design anywhere in the world through our network of resources, Zoom and technology. We have even completed projects without ever setting foot in the actual space.
What does an interior designer do?
The simple answer is we evaluate your needs, your architecture, functional requirements and style to create for you a home that tells your story beautifully and practically. Sometimes that means working with your architect at the onset of your project, other times it’s to simply help design and furnish a room.
Why should I hire an interior designer?
We are professionals. We have been educated and have over 35 years of experience doing our design work day in and day out. We have won awards for our designs. We can take your style, needs and dreams for your home, and make them a reality for you. We have resources beyond those of which you’re aware or have access, and we can gently push the design concept just a bit past your comfort zone to create something extraordinary - a truly unique and custom home made specifically for you.
We can save you money. No expensive or embarrassing mistakes. Your furniture will fit, and be the right scale for your space; your colors will work and flow throughout your house. That gorgeous fabric you loved as a swatch doesn’t look quite the same when it’s a wall of drapery, does it? That perfect chair and fabric you found is faded and the cushions flat after just a year. Do you want to add to the landfill, or choose what will be perfect and long-lasting for your home?
We can save you time. We know what needs to be done and in what order. We know where and to whom to go for what we need. We can anticipate (most!) obstacles. We know what might work, and what certainly won’t no matter how perfect it might seem.
We can provide for you the “wow” factor. We think outside the box. We are trained to think spatially and creatively. We pay attention to detail. We understand why something works, how to build a design that will measurably enhance your well-being and productivity. We create joy!
When should I hire an interior designer?
If you are building a new home, or remodeling an existing one, the sooner you have an interior designer on the team the more design choices you’ll have and the less money you’ll spend.
When we see the architect’s drawings, we can all work together to be sure details are addressed then, which could become quite a bit more costly if attention were paid to them later in the building process.
The architect may not be aware of the need for floor electrical outlets to be placed just so, or that the fireplace surround is going to require additional support due to its weight. The gorgeous ceiling detailing may not align with how the space will ultimately be used, or the kitchen may not accommodate 2 cooks at the same time (or a lower counter for kneading bread!).
The antique rugs you’ve had in your family for generations don’t have a room large enough to hold them, and the only wall space for your art collection is directly opposite bright windows where they will be damaged by the sun.
You may really want motorized window shades, but the sills may not be deep enough to position them properly. And you really do need additional storage built into the room - it might be a perfect place for window seats with drawers below.
In addition, the architect might want to specify a particular flooring material, or stone for the counters. We’ll want to be sure the texture and colors will work successfully with the fabrics and rugs you’ll want.
Think of creating a 3-dimensional painting in which you’ll get to live. All the parts - the colors, the type of paint, the forms, shapes and scale will need to work together. All the design should be sketched out together - both the architecture and the interiors. They all need to blend seamlessly, so the form of the building moves you comfortably to your perfect sofa.
How do I choose the right designer for me?
The short answer is someone who has experience, has some sort of accreditation (ASID, IIDA), and most importantly, someone who you feel can really hear what you’re saying. Not simply the words, but truly gets what you’re trying to communicate, and understands the energy you’re looking for in your home.
Integrity, honesty, intuitiveness and creativity are also key. The designer should be your advocate, and have the ability to offer solutions in a range of quality and price points.
I wrote a short article that may be of help, “The 3 Most Important Questions to Ask When Hiring an Interior Designer”. You can access it HERE.
Can an interior designer buy more than I can?
Yes. Much more. Not only are there a myriad of trade-only resources available to you through a professional designer, we can most-times access retail products at a discount, or go directly to the manufacturer, thereby bypassing the enormous mark-ups retail shops need to include in their pricing.
As well, we can create custom furniture, custom rugs, custom lighting - really whatever might be needed for your unique design dreams. We have decades of building relationships with furniture makers, rug makers, upholsters, fabric houses, metal workers and just about any craft or artisan product you can imagine.
This means the sizes will be perfect, the finishes just right, and the pieces completely designed and made just for you.
What is your style?
Some designers work in a very specific style. It may be farmhouse, mid-century modern, traditional European, modern Italian, early-American and so on.
Stacey was born and raised in Connecticut, which exposed her to New England and European design influences. She has lived in California for over 40 years. Her Asian influences, Mexican and Spanish styles and Michael Taylor’s “California” design inform her work. Being well-traveled, Stacey soaks up design ideas from around the world, from Europe to Africa, Central and South America to the Caribbean and beyond. Her Fine Art studies (she has a BFA from the University of CT) allow her to marry and meld all of these influences based on the needs and styles of her client into beautiful and appropriate interiors.
Why you, instead of an in-store decorator?
Though there are some qualified designers working in retail, their job is to sell their product, not necessarily what’s best for you and your project. Most in-store people don’t have the breadth of experience, education and knowledge that independent designers are able to provide their clients. We can bring to your project the most appropriate ideas and products from a myriad of sources, even those manufacturers that private-label to the retailers for better pricing and options.
What cities do you work in?
Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we primarily work in San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma and Napa. Projects have taken us to Portola Valley, San Jose, Lake Tahoe and New York. Southern California projects include those in Montecito.
If the project and clients are aligned with our work, we can literally design anywhere in the world through our network of resources, Zoom and technology. We have even completed projects without ever setting foot in the actual space.
THE PROCESS
You might be wondering what to expect throughout the different phases of your design journey. From the initial consultation to the final installation, every project follows a structured process designed to keep things seamless and stress-free.
In this section, we’ll walk you through how to get started, what steps your project will go through, and how involved you’ll need to be.
Whether you're curious about the first meeting, the level of collaboration, or what happens if adjustments are needed, we’re here to ensure you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
THE PROCESS
You might be wondering what to expect throughout the different phases of your design journey. From the initial consultation to the final installation, every project follows a structured process designed to keep things seamless and stress-free.
In this section, we’ll walk you through how to get started, what steps your project will go through, and how involved you’ll need to be.
Whether you're curious about the first meeting, the level of collaboration, or what happens if adjustments are needed, we’re here to ensure you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
How do I go about hiring an interior designer?
Your first step is your Design Discovery Call. This free Zoom consultation will help determine if we might be a good fit. We’ll learn what a successful result will look like to you, your budget and the scope of your project.
We will send you our Design Questionnaire to complete prior to our next meeting.
What should I do before I contact an interior designer?
Discover what feeling you’d like to experience in your newly designed home. What are your functional requirements as it relates to space, storage, the number of people you want to accommodate and the like.
Go through design magazines and vetted websites such as architecturaldigest.com, elledecor.com, and veranda.com. Here you will be looking at good design. Consider what you’re drawn to. What do you like? And equally important, what do you hate? Look at colors, textures, and shapes. Do you like the drama of a look, or the comfort of a space? Does a room just feel like you belong to it? Do you love a cabinet, or a sofa? Mark down all your comments.
If online, cut/paste images to a Google Doc with your comments that we can review together.
Consider how long you might be in your home. Do you anticipate any construction or remodeling?
What is your budget? Though you may be unsure about how much interior design might cost, consider a budget range - what are you willing to invest in your project? A (very) general rule of thumb for a whole house design is between 15% - 30% of the cost of the home or construction.
How long will the first meeting last?
Typically our Zoom Design Discovery Calls last about 30 minutes. The first phase of our signature 7-step design process, “Beyond Beautiful Spaces” the Getting To Know You in-home meeting. You should allow at least 2 hours for this meeting.
How involved in the process will I need to be?
This is entirely up to you and your schedule. We have completed turn-key design projects following our initial programming meeting with only phone calls, emails and a Zoom call or two. Other clients want to see, sit and feel the products that are recommended, or review options to floorplan layouts and fabric combinations. We can act as your advocate and represent you at architectural and construction meetings, saving you an enormous amount of time. If you’d like to be more involved, we can discuss how we can work to be sure you are most comfortable with the process.
What if I am unhappy with your designs?
Because we have such a comprehensive onboarding process, we will know your likes and dislikes, your functional requirements and your dreams. We will check in with you as often as necessary to be sure we are on the same page, and you are happy with your decisions. We can’t go wrong! And, we are not going anywhere. Should you change your mind about something, or have a problem with any of the work we did, we will help you make it right.
How do we get started?
Call or email us to schedule your Design Discovery Call. We would love to hear from you! 415-320-0077. hello@staceylapukinteriors.com.
What is the sequence of phases that my design project will go through?
Our signature 7-step design process, “Beyond Beautiful Spaces” has created extraordinary, beautiful and successful homes for our clients.
Phase One: Getting to Know You
Our first step is getting to know you with our Programming Meeting. First, we search for an immersive understanding of you, our new client. We do a deep dive into what luxury, creativity and comfort mean to you. We review your goals, confirm your project scope, discuss your investment estimate and capture your input and desires. We'll review visual clues, including your magazine and web pictures, personal and family images, and items from favorite travel destinations. Finally, we'll determine and note those pieces, area rugs and artwork, that you would like to be included in the design, require refurbishing, or re-upholstery.
With your project details, we’ll be able to create your Project Scope. We’ll look over our design agreements, and with your approval and retainer, we’ll schedule our next phase of work.
The cost of this work is applied to your project should we decide to move forward.
Phase Two: Measure and Photography
Phase two is for measures and photography. We may have our draftsman out to provide accurate measures of the floorplans and elevations necessary based on your project scope.
Phase Three: Conceptual Design Phase
The Conceptual Design Phase is where your Design Development really begins. Typically, we guide you on an educational, customized tour of appropriate showrooms, vendors and craftspeople, principally located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Not a shopping trip per se, rather an opportunity for you to see and learn what's truly possible and available, understand pricing and timing, and to dream.
The continual, co-creative process of your interior design includes floor, furnishing color and lighting plans, window treatment designs, research specifications and whatever else your project might require. Samples are obtained and pricing is considered as options are provided in various price points to best align with your budget.
Phase Four: Your First Presentation
Our presentations may take a number of forms, depending on your project requirements. Design concepts, plans, design boards and initial selections; various materials, renderings, options and estimates are presented to you. The design is honed as necessary. Additional presentations may take place throughout the duration of the interior design process.
Phase Five: Detailed Design Phase
The Detailed Design Phase exists to turn ideas into orders. We will source all furnishings, procure written quotes, and prepare detailed proposals. You will see floor plans and elevations, as well as every furniture selection, material, and finishes proposed.
Contractors are secured and scheduled as required. For new construction and remodels, elements permanent to the structure are scheduled, installed and completed.
Art and accessories are critically important areas of design to complete your home and make it your own. Some selections may be placed on installation day, including those elements you may already have and want to be sure are included in your finished home's design.
Phase Six: Purchasing and Execution
This Purchasing and Execution phase implements your design. This is where our turn key service shines for our clients. We communicate details to vendors and trades, place orders, track deliveries, and resolve any conflicts. You just sit back, relax, a wait for your dream home to come to life.
Phase Seven: Project Wrap-Up
Before we leave you to enjoy your beautiful new home, we follow through on any outstanding items, see the punch list through to completion, and provide our care guide to maintain your new furnishings and finishes.
How do I go about hiring an interior designer?
Your first step is your Design Discovery Call. This free Zoom consultation will help determine if we might be a good fit. We’ll learn what a successful result will look like to you, your budget and the scope of your project.
We will send you our Design Questionnaire to complete prior to our next meeting.
What should I do before I contact an interior designer?
Discover what feeling you’d like to experience in your newly designed home. What are your functional requirements as it relates to space, storage, the number of people you want to accommodate and the like.
Go through design magazines and vetted websites such as architecturaldigest.com, elledecor.com, and veranda.com. Here you will be looking at good design. Consider what you’re drawn to. What do you like? And equally important, what do you hate? Look at colors, textures, and shapes. Do you like the drama of a look, or the comfort of a space? Does a room just feel like you belong to it? Do you love a cabinet, or a sofa? Mark down all your comments.
If online, cut/paste images to a Google Doc with your comments that we can review together.
Consider how long you might be in your home. Do you anticipate any construction or remodeling?
What is your budget? Though you may be unsure about how much interior design might cost, consider a budget range - what are you willing to invest in your project? A (very) general rule of thumb for a whole house design is between 15% - 30% of the cost of the home or construction.
How long will the first meeting last?
Typically our Zoom Design Discovery Calls last about 30 minutes. The first phase of our signature 7-step design process, “Beyond Beautiful Spaces” the Getting To Know You in-home meeting. You should allow at least 2 hours for this meeting.
How involved in the process will I need to be?
This is entirely up to you and your schedule. We have completed turn-key design projects following our initial programming meeting with only phone calls, emails and a Zoom call or two. Other clients want to see, sit and feel the products that are recommended, or review options to floorplan layouts and fabric combinations. We can act as your advocate and represent you at architectural and construction meetings, saving you an enormous amount of time. If you’d like to be more involved, we can discuss how we can work to be sure you are most comfortable with the process.
What if I am unhappy with your designs?
Because we have such a comprehensive onboarding process, we will know your likes and dislikes, your functional requirements and your dreams. We will check in with you as often as necessary to be sure we are on the same page, and you are happy with your decisions. We can’t go wrong! And, we are not going anywhere. Should you change your mind about something, or have a problem with any of the work we did, we will help you make it right.
How do we get started?
Call or email us to schedule your Design Discovery Call. We would love to hear from you! 415-320-0077. hello@staceylapukinteriors.com.
What is the sequence of phases that my design project will go through?
Our signature 7-step design process, “Beyond Beautiful Spaces” has created extraordinary, beautiful and successful homes for our clients.
Phase One: Getting to Know You
Our first step is getting to know you with our Programming Meeting. First, we search for an immersive understanding of you, our new client. We do a deep dive into what luxury, creativity and comfort mean to you. We review your goals, confirm your project scope, discuss your investment estimate and capture your input and desires. We'll review visual clues, including your magazine and web pictures, personal and family images, and items from favorite travel destinations. Finally, we'll determine and note those pieces, area rugs and artwork, that you would like to be included in the design, require refurbishing, or re-upholstery.
With your project details, we’ll be able to create your Project Scope. We’ll look over our design agreements, and with your approval and retainer, we’ll schedule our next phase of work.
The cost of this work is applied to your project should we decide to move forward.
Phase Two: Measure and Photography
Phase two is for measures and photography. We may have our draftsman out to provide accurate measures of the floorplans and elevations necessary based on your project scope.
Phase Three: Conceptual Design Phase
The Conceptual Design Phase is where your Design Development really begins. Typically, we guide you on an educational, customized tour of appropriate showrooms, vendors and craftspeople, principally located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Not a shopping trip per se, rather an opportunity for you to see and learn what's truly possible and available, understand pricing and timing, and to dream.
The continual, co-creative process of your interior design includes floor, furnishing color and lighting plans, window treatment designs, research specifications and whatever else your project might require. Samples are obtained and pricing is considered as options are provided in various price points to best align with your budget.
Phase Four: Your First Presentation
Our presentations may take a number of forms, depending on your project requirements. Design concepts, plans, design boards and initial selections; various materials, renderings, options and estimates are presented to you. The design is honed as necessary. Additional presentations may take place throughout the duration of the interior design process.
Phase Five: Detailed Design Phase
The Detailed Design Phase exists to turn ideas into orders. We will source all furnishings, procure written quotes, and prepare detailed proposals. You will see floor plans and elevations, as well as every furniture selection, material, and finishes proposed.
Contractors are secured and scheduled as required. For new construction and remodels, elements permanent to the structure are scheduled, installed and completed.
Art and accessories are critically important areas of design to complete your home and make it your own. Some selections may be placed on installation day, including those elements you may already have and want to be sure are included in your finished home's design.
Phase Six: Purchasing and Execution
This Purchasing and Execution phase implements your design. This is where our turn key service shines for our clients. We communicate details to vendors and trades, place orders, track deliveries, and resolve any conflicts. You just sit back, relax, a wait for your dream home to come to life.
Phase Seven: Project Wrap-Up
Before we leave you to enjoy your beautiful new home, we follow through on any outstanding items, see the punch list through to completion, and provide our care guide to maintain your new furnishings and finishes.
How do I go about hiring an interior designer?
Your first step is your Design Discovery Call. This free Zoom consultation will help determine if we might be a good fit. We’ll learn what a successful result will look like to you, your budget and the scope of your project.
We will send you our Design Questionnaire to complete prior to our next meeting.
What should I do before I contact an interior designer?
Discover what feeling you’d like to experience in your newly designed home. What are your functional requirements as it relates to space, storage, the number of people you want to accommodate and the like.
Go through design magazines and vetted websites such as architecturaldigest.com, elledecor.com, and veranda.com. Here you will be looking at good design. Consider what you’re drawn to. What do you like? And equally important, what do you hate? Look at colors, textures, and shapes. Do you like the drama of a look, or the comfort of a space? Does a room just feel like you belong to it? Do you love a cabinet, or a sofa? Mark down all your comments.
If online, cut/paste images to a Google Doc with your comments that we can review together.
Consider how long you might be in your home. Do you anticipate any construction or remodeling?
What is your budget? Though you may be unsure about how much interior design might cost, consider a budget range - what are you willing to invest in your project? A (very) general rule of thumb for a whole house design is between 15% - 30% of the cost of the home or construction.
How long will the first meeting last?
Typically our Zoom Design Discovery Calls last about 30 minutes. The first phase of our signature 7-step design process, “Beyond Beautiful Spaces” the Getting To Know You in-home meeting. You should allow at least 2 hours for this meeting.
How involved in the process will I need to be?
This is entirely up to you and your schedule. We have completed turn-key design projects following our initial programming meeting with only phone calls, emails and a Zoom call or two. Other clients want to see, sit and feel the products that are recommended, or review options to floorplan layouts and fabric combinations. We can act as your advocate and represent you at architectural and construction meetings, saving you an enormous amount of time. If you’d like to be more involved, we can discuss how we can work to be sure you are most comfortable with the process.
What if I am unhappy with your designs?
Because we have such a comprehensive onboarding process, we will know your likes and dislikes, your functional requirements and your dreams. We will check in with you as often as necessary to be sure we are on the same page, and you are happy with your decisions. We can’t go wrong! And, we are not going anywhere. Should you change your mind about something, or have a problem with any of the work we did, we will help you make it right.
How do we get started?
Call or email us to schedule your Design Discovery Call. We would love to hear from you! 415-320-0077. hello@staceylapukinteriors.com.
What is the sequence of phases that my design project will go through?
Our signature 7-step design process, “Beyond Beautiful Spaces” has created extraordinary, beautiful and successful homes for our clients.
Phase One: Getting to Know You
Our first step is getting to know you with our Programming Meeting. First, we search for an immersive understanding of you, our new client. We do a deep dive into what luxury, creativity and comfort mean to you. We review your goals, confirm your project scope, discuss your investment estimate and capture your input and desires. We'll review visual clues, including your magazine and web pictures, personal and family images, and items from favorite travel destinations. Finally, we'll determine and note those pieces, area rugs and artwork, that you would like to be included in the design, require refurbishing, or re-upholstery.
With your project details, we’ll be able to create your Project Scope. We’ll look over our design agreements, and with your approval and retainer, we’ll schedule our next phase of work.
The cost of this work is applied to your project should we decide to move forward.
Phase Two: Measure and Photography
Phase two is for measures and photography. We may have our draftsman out to provide accurate measures of the floorplans and elevations necessary based on your project scope.
Phase Three: Conceptual Design Phase
The Conceptual Design Phase is where your Design Development really begins. Typically, we guide you on an educational, customized tour of appropriate showrooms, vendors and craftspeople, principally located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Not a shopping trip per se, rather an opportunity for you to see and learn what's truly possible and available, understand pricing and timing, and to dream.
The continual, co-creative process of your interior design includes floor, furnishing color and lighting plans, window treatment designs, research specifications and whatever else your project might require. Samples are obtained and pricing is considered as options are provided in various price points to best align with your budget.
Phase Four: Your First Presentation
Our presentations may take a number of forms, depending on your project requirements. Design concepts, plans, design boards and initial selections; various materials, renderings, options and estimates are presented to you. The design is honed as necessary. Additional presentations may take place throughout the duration of the interior design process.
Phase Five: Detailed Design Phase
The Detailed Design Phase exists to turn ideas into orders. We will source all furnishings, procure written quotes, and prepare detailed proposals. You will see floor plans and elevations, as well as every furniture selection, material, and finishes proposed.
Contractors are secured and scheduled as required. For new construction and remodels, elements permanent to the structure are scheduled, installed and completed.
Art and accessories are critically important areas of design to complete your home and make it your own. Some selections may be placed on installation day, including those elements you may already have and want to be sure are included in your finished home's design.
Phase Six: Purchasing and Execution
This Purchasing and Execution phase implements your design. This is where our turn key service shines for our clients. We communicate details to vendors and trades, place orders, track deliveries, and resolve any conflicts. You just sit back, relax, a wait for your dream home to come to life.
Phase Seven: Project Wrap-Up
Before we leave you to enjoy your beautiful new home, we follow through on any outstanding items, see the punch list through to completion, and provide our care guide to maintain your new furnishings and finishes.
SERVICES
Every design project is unique, and we’re here to provide the right level of support to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re refreshing a single room, furnishing an entire home, or undergoing a full-scale renovation, we offer a range of services to fit your needs.
From collaborating with architects and contractors to managing every detail of your project, we tailor our approach to ensure a seamless experience.
Not sure if your project is the right fit? In this section, we’ll clarify the types of projects we take on and what makes our expertise stand out.
SERVICES
Every design project is unique, and we’re here to provide the right level of support to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re refreshing a single room, furnishing an entire home, or undergoing a full-scale renovation, we offer a range of services to fit your needs.
From collaborating with architects and contractors to managing every detail of your project, we tailor our approach to ensure a seamless experience.
Not sure if your project is the right fit? In this section, we’ll clarify the types of projects we take on and what makes our expertise stand out.
What types of projects can you do?
We work primarily on residences, whether it's your primary home or a second or vacation home. We have also completed work for hospitality projects and private offices. Our projects can range from new construction, remodels and renovation, kitchen and bath design, whole home design, furnishing and decoration. Some projects begin with just a single room.
Others begin with a comprehensive design plan which can be implemented over time. This protects you from choosing a particular stone for your kitchen, for example, and finding you don’t like how the color carries through the rest of the house. With a plan, you know what you eventually complete at the other end of the house will make sense to what you’re starting with.
Do we need to use your contractor or architect?
No. We may suggest certain architects or contractors we think would do a wonderful job for you and would be most appropriate for your project size and complexity, but it is up to you who you choose to work with. Though we can manage the relationship and work as your advocate, you will contract directly with them.
Do we need to use your contractor or architect?
No. We may suggest certain architects or contractors we think would do a wonderful job for you and would be most appropriate for your project size and complexity, but it is up to you who you choose to work with. Though we can manage the relationship and work as your advocate, you will contract directly with them.
Can you manage the entire project?
Yes. We have the experience and relationships to provide for you the best result possible.
What other services do you offer clients?
We have helped our clients with their art and antiques acquisitions, and all aspects of design and decoration including outdoor spaces.
Do you have a specialty?
I look at each project as a 3-dimensional painting in which you will live and thrive. With a BFA as well as studies in interior design and interior architecture, I have the ability to see a space as a living sculpture. This gives you the experience of living in balance and harmony.
My actual specialty is Biophilic Interior Design. Of course, design excellence has to exist first, then I infuse my projects with the measurably proven benefits of biophilic principles. The closer our homes are aligned with nature, the more aligned they are with your own biology. This results in a true feeling of being at home, connected to our design for our happiness and well-being.
Visit our website page on Biophilic Design for more information: https://staceylapukinteriors.com/biophilic-design/
Is any project too small?
We have opened up our work to include projects with fee retainers as low as $10,000.
What is the largest type of project you can work on?
Large residential projects up to 25,000 square feet with budgets of $3.5 million or more have been our upper range. If the project and budget are appropriate we’d love to speak with you!
Do I need a designer if I only want help with new furniture?
If you know what you want and where to get it, we may not be of much help. However, if you want to be certain your floorplan and furniture layout will function best for the way you will be using the space, accommodate everyone and everything comfortably, will feel the best with the right scale, colors, textures, shapes and proportions, and will be the best quality within your budget, a professional will open up doors to options.
We have resources well beyond what is available to you in retail stores, and the ability to custom design pieces as necessary, and as budget allows. As well, we have the entire space in mind so that what is purchased will align with your home and existing design and architecture.
How are purchases for the project handled?
We provide complete procurement services for our clients. This includes making certain the correct specifications are communicated clearly to our manufacturer vendors and craftspeople; checking strike-offs (sample finishes) and cfa’s (cuttings fabric off the actual bolts of material that will be used for your upholstery) to be certain dye lots will match our sample, or are acceptable and so forth.
We then follow your products - furniture, lighting fixtures, rugs, window treatments, etc. - through production, shipping, receiving, inspection and final installation in your home.
In the case of products permanent to your home such as fixtures, tile and stone flooring materials, cabinetry, hardware and the like, we work directly with your builder or contractor to ensure products are available and on site when needed. We also handle the design aspects of the materials such as templating stone slab, tile layout, flooring layout, electrical locations and more.
What types of projects can you do?
We work primarily on residences, whether it's your primary home or a second or vacation home. We have also completed work for hospitality projects and private offices. Our projects can range from new construction, remodels and renovation, kitchen and bath design, whole home design, furnishing and decoration. Some projects begin with just a single room.
Others begin with a comprehensive design plan which can be implemented over time. This protects you from choosing a particular stone for your kitchen, for example, and finding you don’t like how the color carries through the rest of the house. With a plan, you know what you eventually complete at the other end of the house will make sense to what you’re starting with.
Do we need to use your contractor or architect?
No. We may suggest certain architects or contractors we think would do a wonderful job for you and would be most appropriate for your project size and complexity, but it is up to you who you choose to work with. Though we can manage the relationship and work as your advocate, you will contract directly with them.
Do we need to use your contractor or architect?
No. We may suggest certain architects or contractors we think would do a wonderful job for you and would be most appropriate for your project size and complexity, but it is up to you who you choose to work with. Though we can manage the relationship and work as your advocate, you will contract directly with them.
Can you manage the entire project?
Yes. We have the experience and relationships to provide for you the best result possible.
What other services do you offer clients?
We have helped our clients with their art and antiques acquisitions, and all aspects of design and decoration including outdoor spaces.
Do you have a specialty?
I look at each project as a 3-dimensional painting in which you will live and thrive. With a BFA as well as studies in interior design and interior architecture, I have the ability to see a space as a living sculpture. This gives you the experience of living in balance and harmony.
My actual specialty is Biophilic Interior Design. Of course, design excellence has to exist first, then I infuse my projects with the measurably proven benefits of biophilic principles. The closer our homes are aligned with nature, the more aligned they are with your own biology. This results in a true feeling of being at home, connected to our design for our happiness and well-being.
Visit our website page on Biophilic Design for more information: https://staceylapukinteriors.com/biophilic-design/
Is any project too small?
We have opened up our work to include projects with fee retainers as low as $10,000.
What is the largest type of project you can work on?
Large residential projects up to 25,000 square feet with budgets of $3.5 million or more have been our upper range. If the project and budget are appropriate we’d love to speak with you!
Do I need a designer if I only want help with new furniture?
If you know what you want and where to get it, we may not be of much help. However, if you want to be certain your floorplan and furniture layout will function best for the way you will be using the space, accommodate everyone and everything comfortably, will feel the best with the right scale, colors, textures, shapes and proportions, and will be the best quality within your budget, a professional will open up doors to options.
We have resources well beyond what is available to you in retail stores, and the ability to custom design pieces as necessary, and as budget allows. As well, we have the entire space in mind so that what is purchased will align with your home and existing design and architecture.
How are purchases for the project handled?
We provide complete procurement services for our clients. This includes making certain the correct specifications are communicated clearly to our manufacturer vendors and craftspeople; checking strike-offs (sample finishes) and cfa’s (cuttings fabric off the actual bolts of material that will be used for your upholstery) to be certain dye lots will match our sample, or are acceptable and so forth.
We then follow your products - furniture, lighting fixtures, rugs, window treatments, etc. - through production, shipping, receiving, inspection and final installation in your home.
In the case of products permanent to your home such as fixtures, tile and stone flooring materials, cabinetry, hardware and the like, we work directly with your builder or contractor to ensure products are available and on site when needed. We also handle the design aspects of the materials such as templating stone slab, tile layout, flooring layout, electrical locations and more.
FEES AND REGULATIONS
Understanding the financial and logistical aspects of working with an interior designer is just as important as choosing the right design direction. We believe in transparency when it comes to pricing, contracts, and how our services are structured, so you know exactly what to expect.
In this section, we’ll clarify how our fees work, what factors influence project costs, and why hiring a designer can be a valuable investment. We’ll also address important regulations, guarantees, and budgeting considerations to help you feel confident in your decision.
FEES AND REGULATIONS
Understanding the financial and logistical aspects of working with an interior designer is just as important as choosing the right design direction. We believe in transparency when it comes to pricing, contracts, and how our services are structured, so you know exactly what to expect.
In this section, we’ll clarify how our fees work, what factors influence project costs, and why hiring a designer can be a valuable investment. We’ll also address important regulations, guarantees, and budgeting considerations to help you feel confident in your decision.
Is there a contract?
Yes. We use both the Letter of Agreement developed through our trade association, as well as a customized “Project Scope” which outlines specifically what we will be doing for you, how much it will cost and what it includes.
Are interior designers required to be licensed?
Not in the state of California. A designer should at the very least, be a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) which affirms a certain amount of education and experience.
What guarantees do you give?
We pass along all guarantees and warranties from our manufacturers and vendors directly to you, our end-user. Should you have any difficulties or problems with something we have specified for you, we will help you to the best of our ability, communicating and rectifying any issue that may arise.
Can you help us comply with Health & Safety legislations?
We can assist with such things as building codes and material regulations. If there is something in particular about which you are concerned, we will do our best to help you navigate and resolve the concern.
Isn’t hiring a designer expensive?
While hiring an interior designer is an investment, it often saves clients money in the long run. A designer can help you avoid costly mistakes, maximize your budget, and achieve a cohesive, timeless look that adds value to your home. We also have access to exclusive resources and discounts that aren’t available to the general public, which can help offset some costs. Ultimately, we work to create a space that reflects your vision and lifestyle, ensuring it’s done right the first time and will be long-lasting.
Do I have to make purchases through you?
Yes. We like to have control over the procurement process, so if anything should go wrong (and something always will!), we can handle it most effectively and efficiently for you. As well, our business model is such that our profits, and ability to remain in business result from both our design and management time, as well as commissions from products. In many instances, this also offers our clients great value in our product pricing.
Of course, if you are out and about, or traveling and see something you want to incorporate into your home’s interior design, just let us know. We want to be sure it will fit properly and add value to your design! If we can purchase it for you and provide better pricing, everyone wins.
Why do you have a design fee and purchasing fee on the product?
Our design fee is what we earn from our intellectual property. This is our ability to create and make manifest your interiors based on our education, experience, relationships and resources. Our purchasing fee on a product is based on a mark-up from our net cost to your purchase price. Just as any retailer purchases their products at their cost, for example a shirt in a boutique or a bracelet from a jeweler, they then mark it up to sell to you, the end user. In general, our final cost to our clients tends to be less than what a suggested retail price might be.
How do you charge?
If your project has a tight scope and your style and needs are communicated clearly, we like to provide you with a fixed fee for our design, based on our estimated hours of work required. Otherwise we simply work on an hourly basis. Project management and custom designing pieces are billed at our hourly rates. Travel is billed on a portal to portal basis, so you are not paying us for sitting in traffic, plus mileage. Reimbursable expenses are billed straight through to you, as are parking fees and tolls.
Our charges are outlined in detail in our Project Scope reflecting your particular project.
What will our project cost?
You are in charge of your budget. That said, the following are a few guidelines. Your budget will guide us to the most appropriate resources for you.
Products and Fees based on a percentage of your home or construction costs: 15% - 30%.
Product budget for a home approximately 3,000 sq. ft.: $300k - $1.5mm+
Flat design fee per room: $8k - $45k+
*A good, mid-range budget will provide you with quality pieces that won’t end up in the landfill in a couple of years.
*Some clients fall in love with one or 2 statement pieces (usually upholstery as you will be using those pieces most), then fill in with less expensive elements.
*You may decide to invest in your primary spaces, such as your Entry, Living and Dining Rooms and Primary Bedroom, and be more limited in your expenditures for the rest of your home.
*Another option is to create your overall design plan, and implement it as budget allows. This way, you won’t invest in something initially that will cause difficulties with what you want for your design in the future.
*More cost-effective resources will keep your budget in check, but also keep you from experiencing more interesting, or finer quality options. Should you choose very inexpensive pieces, bear in mind these will need to be replaced in a few years. We encourage our clients to do it right, to the best of your ability, and do it once.
How do I work out a budget?
If you have the flexibility, the best way to work out your budget is to invest in the design, then select the quality of furnishings, fabrics and fixtures that will best accommodate what you’d like to invest.
Another way to understand what things cost is to review your initial inspiration images of what you like with us. We can put cost ranges on the various elements and show you the differences between, for example, a $1,500, $7,500, and a $20,000 sofa. This way, you can make informed decisions.
Do you charge for your first meeting?
Our initial Design Discovery Calls are completely complimentary. They may be offered in your home depending on where you live, or they may be completed on Zoom.
Our next meeting is onsite where practical. Here we will review our design process for you, get a sense of your space and what you’d like to accomplish, discuss ideas and review our agreements with you.
If appropriate, this onsite meeting may morph into your onboarding session where we take a deep dive into your project, get super-specific about the scope of your project and get started! This meeting’s cost is applied to your project should you decide to move forward.
Do you offer discounts for multiple rooms?
It is always more cost-effective to do more than one space at a time. Because your home is an entire entity, what is designed for one space affects what is created for a space on the other side of your house. Designing at the same time your entire “gestalt” - your dream for your home, can be addressed at once, rather than a stop and start approach. This would require being reacquainted with what a great result means to you, and revisiting resources multiple times.
As well, if you choose to address such things as flooring or wall finishes, for example bringing in contractors to do that work one time, is much less expensive than having them do the work piecemeal.
Even if completing your home at one time is not aligned with your budget, creating the design and specifications, then implementing the elements over time will save you a great deal (and be that much more fun!).
Is there a contract?
Yes. We use both the Letter of Agreement developed through our trade association, as well as a customized “Project Scope” which outlines specifically what we will be doing for you, how much it will cost and what it includes.
Are interior designers required to be licensed?
Not in the state of California. A designer should at the very least, be a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) which affirms a certain amount of education and experience.
What guarantees do you give?
We pass along all guarantees and warranties from our manufacturers and vendors directly to you, our end-user. Should you have any difficulties or problems with something we have specified for you, we will help you to the best of our ability, communicating and rectifying any issue that may arise.
Can you help us comply with Health & Safety legislations?
We can assist with such things as building codes and material regulations. If there is something in particular about which you are concerned, we will do our best to help you navigate and resolve the concern.
Isn’t hiring a designer expensive?
While hiring an interior designer is an investment, it often saves clients money in the long run. A designer can help you avoid costly mistakes, maximize your budget, and achieve a cohesive, timeless look that adds value to your home. We also have access to exclusive resources and discounts that aren’t available to the general public, which can help offset some costs. Ultimately, we work to create a space that reflects your vision and lifestyle, ensuring it’s done right the first time and will be long-lasting.
Do I have to make purchases through you?
Yes. We like to have control over the procurement process, so if anything should go wrong (and something always will!), we can handle it most effectively and efficiently for you. As well, our business model is such that our profits, and ability to remain in business result from both our design and management time, as well as commissions from products. In many instances, this also offers our clients great value in our product pricing.
Of course, if you are out and about, or traveling and see something you want to incorporate into your home’s interior design, just let us know. We want to be sure it will fit properly and add value to your design! If we can purchase it for you and provide better pricing, everyone wins.
Why do you have a design fee and purchasing fee on the product?
Our design fee is what we earn from our intellectual property. This is our ability to create and make manifest your interiors based on our education, experience, relationships and resources. Our purchasing fee on a product is based on a mark-up from our net cost to your purchase price. Just as any retailer purchases their products at their cost, for example a shirt in a boutique or a bracelet from a jeweler, they then mark it up to sell to you, the end user. In general, our final cost to our clients tends to be less than what a suggested retail price might be.
How do you charge?
If your project has a tight scope and your style and needs are communicated clearly, we like to provide you with a fixed fee for our design, based on our estimated hours of work required. Otherwise we simply work on an hourly basis. Project management and custom designing pieces are billed at our hourly rates. Travel is billed on a portal to portal basis, so you are not paying us for sitting in traffic, plus mileage. Reimbursable expenses are billed straight through to you, as are parking fees and tolls.
Our charges are outlined in detail in our Project Scope reflecting your particular project.
What will our project cost?
You are in charge of your budget. That said, the following are a few guidelines. Your budget will guide us to the most appropriate resources for you.
Products and Fees based on a percentage of your home or construction costs: 15% - 30%.
Product budget for a home approximately 3,000 sq. ft.: $300k - $1.5mm+
Flat design fee per room: $8k - $45k+
*A good, mid-range budget will provide you with quality pieces that won’t end up in the landfill in a couple of years.
*Some clients fall in love with one or 2 statement pieces (usually upholstery as you will be using those pieces most), then fill in with less expensive elements.
*You may decide to invest in your primary spaces, such as your Entry, Living and Dining Rooms and Primary Bedroom, and be more limited in your expenditures for the rest of your home.
*Another option is to create your overall design plan, and implement it as budget allows. This way, you won’t invest in something initially that will cause difficulties with what you want for your design in the future.
*More cost-effective resources will keep your budget in check, but also keep you from experiencing more interesting, or finer quality options. Should you choose very inexpensive pieces, bear in mind these will need to be replaced in a few years. We encourage our clients to do it right, to the best of your ability, and do it once.
How do I work out a budget?
If you have the flexibility, the best way to work out your budget is to invest in the design, then select the quality of furnishings, fabrics and fixtures that will best accommodate what you’d like to invest.
Another way to understand what things cost is to review your initial inspiration images of what you like with us. We can put cost ranges on the various elements and show you the differences between, for example, a $1,500, $7,500, and a $20,000 sofa. This way, you can make informed decisions.
Do you charge for your first meeting?
Our initial Design Discovery Calls are completely complimentary. They may be offered in your home depending on where you live, or they may be completed on Zoom.
Our next meeting is onsite where practical. Here we will review our design process for you, get a sense of your space and what you’d like to accomplish, discuss ideas and review our agreements with you.
If appropriate, this onsite meeting may morph into your onboarding session where we take a deep dive into your project, get super-specific about the scope of your project and get started! This meeting’s cost is applied to your project should you decide to move forward.
Do you offer discounts for multiple rooms?
It is always more cost-effective to do more than one space at a time. Because your home is an entire entity, what is designed for one space affects what is created for a space on the other side of your house. Designing at the same time your entire “gestalt” - your dream for your home, can be addressed at once, rather than a stop and start approach. This would require being reacquainted with what a great result means to you, and revisiting resources multiple times.
As well, if you choose to address such things as flooring or wall finishes, for example bringing in contractors to do that work one time, is much less expensive than having them do the work piecemeal.
Even if completing your home at one time is not aligned with your budget, creating the design and specifications, then implementing the elements over time will save you a great deal (and be that much more fun!).
Is there a contract?
Yes. We use both the Letter of Agreement developed through our trade association, as well as a customized “Project Scope” which outlines specifically what we will be doing for you, how much it will cost and what it includes.
Are interior designers required to be licensed?
Not in the state of California. A designer should at the very least, be a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) which affirms a certain amount of education and experience.
What guarantees do you give?
We pass along all guarantees and warranties from our manufacturers and vendors directly to you, our end-user. Should you have any difficulties or problems with something we have specified for you, we will help you to the best of our ability, communicating and rectifying any issue that may arise.
Can you help us comply with Health & Safety legislations?
We can assist with such things as building codes and material regulations. If there is something in particular about which you are concerned, we will do our best to help you navigate and resolve the concern.
Isn’t hiring a designer expensive?
While hiring an interior designer is an investment, it often saves clients money in the long run. A designer can help you avoid costly mistakes, maximize your budget, and achieve a cohesive, timeless look that adds value to your home. We also have access to exclusive resources and discounts that aren’t available to the general public, which can help offset some costs. Ultimately, we work to create a space that reflects your vision and lifestyle, ensuring it’s done right the first time and will be long-lasting.
Do I have to make purchases through you?
Yes. We like to have control over the procurement process, so if anything should go wrong (and something always will!), we can handle it most effectively and efficiently for you. As well, our business model is such that our profits, and ability to remain in business result from both our design and management time, as well as commissions from products. In many instances, this also offers our clients great value in our product pricing.
Of course, if you are out and about, or traveling and see something you want to incorporate into your home’s interior design, just let us know. We want to be sure it will fit properly and add value to your design! If we can purchase it for you and provide better pricing, everyone wins.
Why do you have a design fee and purchasing fee on the product?
Our design fee is what we earn from our intellectual property. This is our ability to create and make manifest your interiors based on our education, experience, relationships and resources. Our purchasing fee on a product is based on a mark-up from our net cost to your purchase price. Just as any retailer purchases their products at their cost, for example a shirt in a boutique or a bracelet from a jeweler, they then mark it up to sell to you, the end user. In general, our final cost to our clients tends to be less than what a suggested retail price might be.
How do you charge?
If your project has a tight scope and your style and needs are communicated clearly, we like to provide you with a fixed fee for our design, based on our estimated hours of work required. Otherwise we simply work on an hourly basis. Project management and custom designing pieces are billed at our hourly rates. Travel is billed on a portal to portal basis, so you are not paying us for sitting in traffic, plus mileage. Reimbursable expenses are billed straight through to you, as are parking fees and tolls.
Our charges are outlined in detail in our Project Scope reflecting your particular project.
What will our project cost?
You are in charge of your budget. That said, the following are a few guidelines. Your budget will guide us to the most appropriate resources for you.
Products and Fees based on a percentage of your home or construction costs: 15% - 30%.
Product budget for a home approximately 3,000 sq. ft.: $300k - $1.5mm+
Flat design fee per room: $8k - $45k+
*A good, mid-range budget will provide you with quality pieces that won’t end up in the landfill in a couple of years.
*Some clients fall in love with one or 2 statement pieces (usually upholstery as you will be using those pieces most), then fill in with less expensive elements.
*You may decide to invest in your primary spaces, such as your Entry, Living and Dining Rooms and Primary Bedroom, and be more limited in your expenditures for the rest of your home.
*Another option is to create your overall design plan, and implement it as budget allows. This way, you won’t invest in something initially that will cause difficulties with what you want for your design in the future.
*More cost-effective resources will keep your budget in check, but also keep you from experiencing more interesting, or finer quality options. Should you choose very inexpensive pieces, bear in mind these will need to be replaced in a few years. We encourage our clients to do it right, to the best of your ability, and do it once.
How do I work out a budget?
If you have the flexibility, the best way to work out your budget is to invest in the design, then select the quality of furnishings, fabrics and fixtures that will best accommodate what you’d like to invest.
Another way to understand what things cost is to review your initial inspiration images of what you like with us. We can put cost ranges on the various elements and show you the differences between, for example, a $1,500, $7,500, and a $20,000 sofa. This way, you can make informed decisions.
Do you charge for your first meeting?
Our initial Design Discovery Calls are completely complimentary. They may be offered in your home depending on where you live, or they may be completed on Zoom.
Our next meeting is onsite where practical. Here we will review our design process for you, get a sense of your space and what you’d like to accomplish, discuss ideas and review our agreements with you.
If appropriate, this onsite meeting may morph into your onboarding session where we take a deep dive into your project, get super-specific about the scope of your project and get started! This meeting’s cost is applied to your project should you decide to move forward.
Do you offer discounts for multiple rooms?
It is always more cost-effective to do more than one space at a time. Because your home is an entire entity, what is designed for one space affects what is created for a space on the other side of your house. Designing at the same time your entire “gestalt” - your dream for your home, can be addressed at once, rather than a stop and start approach. This would require being reacquainted with what a great result means to you, and revisiting resources multiple times.
As well, if you choose to address such things as flooring or wall finishes, for example bringing in contractors to do that work one time, is much less expensive than having them do the work piecemeal.
Even if completing your home at one time is not aligned with your budget, creating the design and specifications, then implementing the elements over time will save you a great deal (and be that much more fun!).
MORE QUESTIONS
Designing a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle is an intimate and meaningful process, and it’s natural to have additional questions along the way. From sourcing furniture and materials to defining your style and understanding how we collaborate with other professionals, we want to make sure you feel comfortable and informed.
Whether you’re wondering how much creative input you’ll have, how we incorporate your favorite pieces, or what tools we use to bring your vision to life, this section covers those final details. No question is too big or small—we’re here to make the design process as simple and enjoyable as possible.
MORE QUESTIONS
Designing a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle is an intimate and meaningful process, and it’s natural to have additional questions along the way. From sourcing furniture and materials to defining your style and understanding how we collaborate with other professionals, we want to make sure you feel comfortable and informed.
Whether you’re wondering how much creative input you’ll have, how we incorporate your favorite pieces, or what tools we use to bring your vision to life, this section covers those final details. No question is too big or small—we’re here to make the design process as simple and enjoyable as possible.
Where do you get your furniture?
Our primary resources are from custom furniture makers, where we can specify sizes, fill, fabric, finishes, metals, etc. We also have access to the manufacturers that private label to retailers, providing our clients with more options for fabrics, finishes etc, and at better price points than they might find in a store. We have access to resellers for vintage pieces and antiques. We can custom design and make any area rug, and have access to a myriad of resources for a variety of flooring - rugs, carpets, wood, stone and ceramic options. Our window treatments and other soft goods are primarily custom made to fit our clients’ specific window, use and design requirements.
Our vetted sources are from around the world. In addition we can purchase directly from retailers or online sources.
Where we source products depends greatly on your budget, values, style and taste, and timeline.
What if the designer imposes their ideas instead of getting my personal taste?
Frankly, you have the wrong designer for you. We feel our job is to listen and understand what makes you unique. If you’re in love with a particular designer’s style, then it would be wise to let them understand you, and create that design for your specific needs. But if you truly want a home that is quintessentially you, you’ll want to work with someone who will not only get your personal taste, but will help you gently move from your comfort zone to create something you never would have considered on your own. This will become you, amplified. We help you dare to create something extraordinary.
Do I have to use a designer’s services for everything, or just as needed?
This would depend on what you’re trying to accomplish, as well as your budget. We offer clients packages of design hours that can be used as needed, if your budget doesn’t allow for our full service design.
Why do I need an interior designer if I already have an architect?
Architects are amazing. They can conceive of a form - your home - and consider such things as light, airflow, space proportions, building codes, architectural style and more. We tend to look at buildings from the inside out. How will you use the space, move in it? Designers have the experience and resources to furnish your home, designing your colors and textures, fabric, shapes and proportions, kitchens and baths, and everything else that is interior to your house. We help you make your house, your beautiful and functional home.
What are your company Terms and Conditions?
When we decide to work together and have wrapped our arms around the scope of your project, we will review 2 documents with you. The first is our Letter of Agreement. This document, from the American Society of Interior Designers is a boiler-plate outline of responsibilities and expectations.
Our second document is your Design Project Scope. Our Terms and Conditions are outlined in this document, specific to your project, goals and budget. You will see specifically what we will be doing for you and your design project, including your project details, costs and the like.
The clearer we are at the onset of your project, the clearer our road to completion. This helps minimize inefficiencies and confirms we are all on the same page and heading down the right path!
I don’t know what style I want - can you still help?
We are masters at helping you discern what style will feel and work best for you. With comprehensive questionnaires, our onboarding experience, intense listening, a bit of intuition, review of images and visits to showrooms that you can see what you’re truly attracted to (and not!), we discover what you will love. Our expertise is then taking all of that information, and creating your 3-dimensional painting in which you will live and thrive!
Would you consider using eco-friendly and sustainable materials?
Absolutely! We have wonderful resources for “green” and eco-friendly furnishings, fabrics, area rugs and more. We love using vintage and antique pieces to add depth to a design and we can update pieces with new upholstery or refinishing. Sometimes a simple paint job can elevate a piece from the past.
What is a mood board and sample board?
Our interpretation of a mood board or sample board is a design board. This showcases the fabrics, finishes, patterns and materials we are presenting to you for your design. It may begin more abstractly, with magazine images, colors, bits of nature and fabric. As your design is solidified, actual material samples are included.
Many times our design boards are presented with options so you can see what feels best to you. Always with reasons and costs, so you can make informed decisions. Some clients like our illustrations to showcase what the design board looks like when applied to your floor plan and furnishings. We can provide 3-D CAD drawings and even “walk-throughs” depending on your budget, and needs.
Can you integrate my favorite pieces or accessories into the design?
Yes! This is your home and we do all we can to be certain your existing, long-loved pieces will find their home there as well. Many times we reupholster or refurbish pieces for our clients to best fit with your new design; other times they become focal points. If something absolutely does not work we will let you know why. You have the final say about everything that’s included in your design.
Do you have fabric and wallpaper books to choose from?
There are literally hundreds of thousands, if not more, fabrics and wallcoverings available to you. Not to mention those that can be completely custom designed and produced for you. We have the knowledge and experience to know which resources would be best for your project as your design is developed. We know the reps, showrooms and online manufacturers and can order samples to work with. We know those lines that would be perfect for your home, and that will work together with all of the other elements that come together for a cohesive design.
Where do you get your furniture?
Our primary resources are from custom furniture makers, where we can specify sizes, fill, fabric, finishes, metals, etc. We also have access to the manufacturers that private label to retailers, providing our clients with more options for fabrics, finishes etc, and at better price points than they might find in a store. We have access to resellers for vintage pieces and antiques. We can custom design and make any area rug, and have access to a myriad of resources for a variety of flooring - rugs, carpets, wood, stone and ceramic options. Our window treatments and other soft goods are primarily custom made to fit our clients’ specific window, use and design requirements.
Our vetted sources are from around the world. In addition we can purchase directly from retailers or online sources.
Where we source products depends greatly on your budget, values, style and taste, and timeline.
What if the designer imposes their ideas instead of getting my personal taste?
Frankly, you have the wrong designer for you. We feel our job is to listen and understand what makes you unique. If you’re in love with a particular designer’s style, then it would be wise to let them understand you, and create that design for your specific needs. But if you truly want a home that is quintessentially you, you’ll want to work with someone who will not only get your personal taste, but will help you gently move from your comfort zone to create something you never would have considered on your own. This will become you, amplified. We help you dare to create something extraordinary.
Do I have to use a designer’s services for everything, or just as needed?
This would depend on what you’re trying to accomplish, as well as your budget. We offer clients packages of design hours that can be used as needed, if your budget doesn’t allow for our full service design.
Why do I need an interior designer if I already have an architect?
Architects are amazing. They can conceive of a form - your home - and consider such things as light, airflow, space proportions, building codes, architectural style and more. We tend to look at buildings from the inside out. How will you use the space, move in it? Designers have the experience and resources to furnish your home, designing your colors and textures, fabric, shapes and proportions, kitchens and baths, and everything else that is interior to your house. We help you make your house, your beautiful and functional home.
What are your company Terms and Conditions?
When we decide to work together and have wrapped our arms around the scope of your project, we will review 2 documents with you. The first is our Letter of Agreement. This document, from the American Society of Interior Designers is a boiler-plate outline of responsibilities and expectations.
Our second document is your Design Project Scope. Our Terms and Conditions are outlined in this document, specific to your project, goals and budget. You will see specifically what we will be doing for you and your design project, including your project details, costs and the like.
The clearer we are at the onset of your project, the clearer our road to completion. This helps minimize inefficiencies and confirms we are all on the same page and heading down the right path!
I don’t know what style I want - can you still help?
We are masters at helping you discern what style will feel and work best for you. With comprehensive questionnaires, our onboarding experience, intense listening, a bit of intuition, review of images and visits to showrooms that you can see what you’re truly attracted to (and not!), we discover what you will love. Our expertise is then taking all of that information, and creating your 3-dimensional painting in which you will live and thrive!
Would you consider using eco-friendly and sustainable materials?
Absolutely! We have wonderful resources for “green” and eco-friendly furnishings, fabrics, area rugs and more. We love using vintage and antique pieces to add depth to a design and we can update pieces with new upholstery or refinishing. Sometimes a simple paint job can elevate a piece from the past.
What is a mood board and sample board?
Our interpretation of a mood board or sample board is a design board. This showcases the fabrics, finishes, patterns and materials we are presenting to you for your design. It may begin more abstractly, with magazine images, colors, bits of nature and fabric. As your design is solidified, actual material samples are included.
Many times our design boards are presented with options so you can see what feels best to you. Always with reasons and costs, so you can make informed decisions. Some clients like our illustrations to showcase what the design board looks like when applied to your floor plan and furnishings. We can provide 3-D CAD drawings and even “walk-throughs” depending on your budget, and needs.
Can you integrate my favorite pieces or accessories into the design?
Yes! This is your home and we do all we can to be certain your existing, long-loved pieces will find their home there as well. Many times we reupholster or refurbish pieces for our clients to best fit with your new design; other times they become focal points. If something absolutely does not work we will let you know why. You have the final say about everything that’s included in your design.
Do you have fabric and wallpaper books to choose from?
There are literally hundreds of thousands, if not more, fabrics and wallcoverings available to you. Not to mention those that can be completely custom designed and produced for you. We have the knowledge and experience to know which resources would be best for your project as your design is developed. We know the reps, showrooms and online manufacturers and can order samples to work with. We know those lines that would be perfect for your home, and that will work together with all of the other elements that come together for a cohesive design.
