Frequently Asked Questions

Short answer: it depends on scope—but it definitely doesn’t happen in a weekend makeover show.

Here’s how a typical timeline breaks down:

• 1. Discovery & Initial Consultation – 1–2 weeks We review your space, goals, investment level, and timing, then gather measurements, photos, and inspiration.

• 2. Concept & Design Development – 3–6 weeks This is where floor plans, mood boards, selections, and preliminary pricing come together. You review, refine, and approve the direction.

• 3. Technical Drawings & Final Selections – 2–4 weeks Detailed drawings, finish schedules, and final furnishings are specified so contractors and trades have a clear roadmap.

• 4. Ordering & Production – 8–16+ weeks Custom furniture, cabinetry, and window treatments are made to order. This is the “hurry up and wait” phase—but it’s what gives you a tailored result.

• 5. Construction / Renovation (if applicable) – varies Simple updates might take a few weeks; full kitchen, bath, or whole-home renovations can run several months, depending on scope and contractor schedule.

• 6. Installation & Styling – 2–7 days Furniture is delivered, window treatments are installed, art is hung, and the space is fully styled.

The exact length of your project will depend on how many rooms we’re tackling, how much construction is involved, and how much custom work you choose—but from first meeting to final reveal, most projects span several months rather than weeks.

We treat your budget like another design constraint—just as important as the floor plan.

Here’s how we manage it together:

• Start with a clear investment range We talk openly about what you’re comfortable investing and define a target range before design gets too far.

• Create a detailed budget by category Construction, cabinetry, furniture, lighting, window treatments, rugs, art, styling, contingency—each has its own line, so nothing hides in the shadows.

• Prioritize your “must-haves” We identify where to splurge (custom pieces, key rooms) and where to save (secondary spaces, smart look-for-less options) so the overall budget stays on track.

• Present pricing before you commit You see proposals and estimates in advance, approve them, and only then are items ordered or trades scheduled. No surprise invoices lurking behind the sofa.

• Track and update as we go As quotes come in or choices change, we update the budget and review it with you so you always know where things stand.

• Plan for contingencies We recommend a 10–20% cushion for unforeseen site conditions or “since we’re doing this, can we also…?” moments, and we get your approval before using it.

The goal: a beautifully finished space and a budget that feels respected from start to finish.

You can be as hands-on or hands-off as you’d like—our job is to do the heavy lifting either way.

Typically, you’ll be most involved in the big moments:

• At the beginning – sharing how you live, what you love, what you don’t, and your comfort level on budget and timeline.

• During design presentations – reacting to concepts, floor plans, and selections so we can refine until it feels exactly right.

• At key approvals – signing off on final designs, estimates, and any major changes before we move forward.

From there, we handle the details: coordinating trades, managing orders, tracking deliveries, and resolving surprises behind the scenes. You stay in the loop with regular updates, but you don’t have to spend your days chasing contractors or tracking fabric lead times—unless you really want to, in which case we’ll hand you a hard hat.

Change is normal—and often where great ideas show up—there’s just a right way to do it.

Here’s what to do:

• Tell us as soon as you’re thinking about a change Even if it’s just “I’m not sure about that sofa anymore,” say it early. It’s much easier (and cheaper) to adjust on paper than on a job site.

• Be specific about what’s not working Is it the color, scale, style, or function? The clearer your feedback, the faster we can suggest smart alternatives.

• We’ll review impact on budget and timeline We’ll let you know if the change affects pricing, lead times, or construction—and offer options so you can decide what feels right.

• Approve the revision in writing Any changes are documented as a formal revision or change order so everyone (you, contractors, trades, and our team) is working from the same updated plan.

• Know there are “cut-off” points Once items are custom-ordered or construction reaches a certain stage, some changes may be limited or come with extra costs—but we’ll always be upfront about that before you decide.

Bottom line: if something doesn’t feel like “you,” speak up. Thoughtful, early communication lets us refine the design without derailing the project.

In most cases, yes—we’ll help shepherd you through the approvals so you’re not wrestling with forms and floor plans on your own. Here’s how it typically works:

• We identify what’s required Based on your scope (cosmetic vs. structural, residential vs. commercial), we’ll advise whether you’re likely to need planning permission, building permits, or HOA/condo approvals.

• We coordinate with the right professionals For anything that requires stamped drawings or formal submissions, we work closely with your architect, engineer, and contractor to ensure the design package is ready for review.

• We assist with documentation & submissions We help prepare the design information, drawings, and specifications needed for planning, building control, or HOA/board approval, and support you and your professional team through the process.

• You stay informed, we manage the details We’ll keep you updated on timelines, comments from the authorities or board, and any adjustments needed to keep the project compliant.

Because regulations vary by area, we’ll always confirm at the start of your project exactly which approvals apply and who will formally submit them—but you won’t be navigating that maze alone.

Quality doesn’t happen by accident—we build it into every step of the process.

Here’s how we keep standards high:

• Thoughtful planning up front We start with detailed floor plans, elevations, and specifications so contractors and trades know exactly what’s expected—no guessing on site.

• Curated materials & vendors We specify products, fabrics, and finishes from trusted sources we know deliver consistent quality, and we review samples in advance for color, texture, and durability.

• Vetted trades & partners We prefer to work with experienced contractors and craftsmen who share our standards. When we meet someone new, we look at their previous work, references, and attention to detail.

• Clear documentation Drawings, finish schedules, and written instructions reduce misunderstandings and help ensure that what’s installed matches what was designed.

• Regular site check-ins We visit the site during key stages to verify that details, alignments, and finishes are being executed as planned—and to catch small issues before they become big ones.

• Order + install oversight We track orders, inspect deliveries for damage or defects, and coordinate installation so everything is placed correctly and professionally.

• Final review & punch list At the end, we walk the space, create a punch list of any touch-ups or adjustments, and oversee those corrections so the finished result meets our standard—and yours.

The goal isn’t just a beautiful photo; it’s a space that feels impeccably finished and holds up beautifully in real life.

Delays and surprises are a normal part of construction, it’s how they’re managed that matters.

Here’s what we do when something pops up:

• Identify the issue quickly Whether it’s a backordered item, an unexpected condition inside a wall, or a contractor delay, we confirm the facts first—not rumors from the job site.

• Explain impact in plain English We’ll walk you through what it means for timeline, budget, and design so you’re never guessing.

• Provide options, not drama Where possible, we’ll give you choices: alternate materials, resequencing work, or adjusting the scope so progress continues.

• Update the schedule and plan We revise the project schedule, coordinate with trades, and keep everyone aligned on the new plan.

• Document everything Changes, approvals, and any cost adjustments are put in writing so there’s a clear record and no surprises later.

Construction isn’t always perfectly smooth—but with proactive communication and a clear plan B (and C), we keep the project moving and protect the integrity of the design.

You’ll never be left wondering who to call.

During your project, you’ll have a primary point of contact with our team, and you can reach us by phone, email, or text - whichever is easiest for you. We’ll share our direct contact details at the start of the project and outline how we’ll communicate (weekly updates, milestone check-ins, and urgent issue channels).

If something’s on your mind—big or small—just reach out. We aim to respond within one business day, and for anything time-sensitive happening on site, we prioritize same-day replies so decisions don’t hold up progress.

Yes. We don’t disappear the day the pillows are fluffed. Here’s what post-completion support typically looks like:

• Settling-in visit – After you’ve lived in the space for a bit, we can walk through together, fine-tune styling, and address any small tweaks.

• Punch-list follow up – If there are items needing touch-ups, adjustments, or replacement, we coordinate with the appropriate trades or vendors.

• Vendor & warranty support – If something arrives damaged or an item has an issue, we help you navigate claims or warranty questions.

• Future updates – When you’re ready to add another room, swap a piece, or refresh for a new season of life, we already know your home and style, so expanding the design is seamless.

Think of us as your long-term design partner, not a one-and-done project.

We approach sustainability the same way we approach design: thoughtful, tailored, and built to last.

Where it makes sense for your project, we’ll look at:

• Timeless, long-lasting design – Creating spaces you’ll love for years dramatically reduces waste. We prioritize quality over disposable, trend-driven pieces.

• Healthier materials – Whenever possible, we specify low-VOC paints, finishes with safer chemistry, responsibly sourced wood, and textiles with eco-conscious certifications.

• Reuse & rehome – We love incorporating existing pieces, refinishing or reupholstering where appropriate, and donating items that no longer serve you so they stay out of landfills.

• Smarter energy use – Thoughtful lighting plans with LED fixtures, dimming, and controls, plus window treatments that improve insulation and solar control, can help reduce energy consumption over time.

• Local and small-batch makers – When budget and style allow, we prioritize local artisans and smaller manufacturers, which can reduce transport impact and support your surrounding community.

Sustainability is never one-size-fits-all. We’ll discuss your comfort level and priorities up front, then weave smart, responsible choices into the design in a way that aligns with your aesthetic, lifestyle, and investment.

Yes—your budget isn’t set in stone, but it is our guiding framework. If something changes—your priorities, the scope, or pricing from vendors — we can:

• Rebalance within the existing budget Swap a few items, adjust materials, or phase certain pieces so we stay inside your original investment.

• Formally increase or decrease the budget If you decide to add rooms, upgrade finishes, or scale back the scope, we’ll revise the budget, show you the impact, and get your approval before moving forward.

• Keep you updated in real time As quotes come in, we compare them to the plan and let you know if we’re under, on, or over—so you can decide how to adjust.

The key is communication: if we talk about changes early, we can usually adapt the budget without sacrificing the overall vision of your project.

Your main job is to be the decision-maker—without feeling like you’ve taken on a second career in construction. Here’s what we’ll ask of you:

• Share your goals honestly Tell us how you live, what you love (and don’t), and what “success” looks like for you—functionally and aesthetically.

• Be clear about budget & timing Let us know your comfort range and any non-negotiable dates (moves, events, guests). The more we know up front, the better we can plan.

• Provide timely feedback & approvals Review design presentations, samples, and proposals and share your feedback promptly so the project can keep moving.

• Grant access to the property Make sure we and our trusted trades can get into the home/building when needed, and that pets and valuables are safe and secure.

• Handle required owner approvals If your HOA, condo board, or building management requires forms in your name, we’ll help prepare them—but you may need to sign and submit.

• Stay current with payments Approving and paying invoices on schedule allows us to place orders, book trades, and keep everything on track.

• Speak up if something doesn’t feel right If you’re unsure about a choice or a detail, tell us. Early, honest communication is the easiest way to keep the project aligned with you.

We’ll manage the details, coordination, and problem-solving. Your role is to be present for the key decisions, so the finished space truly feels like home.