frequently asked questions

What exactly does full service interior design mean?

Full service means creating a turn-key design for your project, from initial concept to the final installation. It is about letting me handle all the details from research to selection, purchasing and coordinating to installation. Full service applies to a full room or group of rooms or the entire home in a single installation. Many of my clients like to work in phases, and so my full service projects are done one complete room at a time. Full service applies even if you already own some of the pieces I will use to complete your project.

Do you offer free consultations?

I charge a non-refundable $350 fee for the initial in-home consultation since I am blocking out a specific time on my calendar and traveling to your home to assess the space, make recommendations, give solid design advice and direction, and put together a Design Fee Proposal for you. Most clients understand that this is a minimal cost compared to not calling in a professional from the beginning and possibly end up making costly mistakes.

What’s included in the in-home consultation?

After the initial phone conversation, and I have determined that we are prospectively a good fit, the next step is the in-home consultation. The appointment lasts up to two hours. This is a working session where I will provide you with valuable guidance, ideas and information to get you on the right track with your project. I will take a tour of your entire home, and help you focus on a defined project scope. Together we discuss your style and lifestyle needs, your vision (and mine), your budget (I help you establish one if you are unsure), timeframe based on scope, and manage your overall expectations about the process.

Read more details about the in-home consultation here.

What is the typical timeline for full service design once I have made a deposit?

A typical design project lasts anywhere from 4-6 months; depending on the scope. Typically two things hold up a design: decision-making and furniture delivery. Once decisions are made, I can estimate your timeframe based on the pieces selected.

What is the typical timeline for eDesign Consultations?

 From the time you sign the Letter of Agreement to the time you have a finished concept board is usually 2-3 weeks.

I’ve never hired a designer. I have no idea how much a typical room would cost. What should I budget?

My goal is to give you a finished space. This includes all the details big and small. It is everything from a sofa and coffee table, to the little accessories around the room, to the lighting and window treatments. Those finished items add up. A typical family room budget starts at around $25,000. Yes, you read that correctly. But if you were to add up everything in your current space it probably came to the same amount (just over several years).

What are your design fees?

E-Design and Decorator By Your Side are a flat fee; the design fees are included in the service.

Because each full service project is unique, time is needed to discuss your vision for the project and the scope of work, after which I will be happy to prepare a Designer Fee Proposal for you. Full Service Decorating design fees are billed at an hourly rate of $125; and I generally estimate the total number of hours required to complete your project. This way, you know upfront what your overall fees will likely be. Any overage from the initial estimate are billed at that standard hourly rate. My minimum design fee for a Full Service Decorating project is $3,750.

How involved will I have to be in the design process?

I try to set expectations in the beginning. This means determining if clients prefer to have the concierge level involved with full service; or if they have an interest in finding some things on their own. If they prefer the latter, the scope of work can be crafted in that manner where certain items are sourced by the client. However; it is the responsibility of the client to handle any and all issues that may arise with those items (i.e., purchasing, delivery, returning damaged items, etc).

I have found through experience, that the design process runs smoother and your design dollars go further when I fully manage the project after learning your needs and desires for your home. I value my clients' ideas and input which ensures that the space will reflect your style and lifestyle. I will present you with great choices and options, make recommendations and guide you through decisions while educating you in the process. I strive to make the process simple and fun. I take a very personable approach, and make it an enjoyable collaboration. I ask that you give me the chance to earn your trust. I do all the work and take care of all the details.

Who are your typical clients?

The clients that I work best with are clients who see value in the creative process, and value the experience, expertise and processes of a professional decorator. They are typically clients who will trust me to do what I do best. They are decisive and ready to take action. They are willing to invest in what they truly want their home to look and feel like. They understand the value of high quality design work.

Can I use my existing furniture?

Absolutely! In fact, I encourage clients to incorporate some of the treasured pieces that they already own. That is what makes for a homey and unique design. I respect my clients' desire to repurpose and reuse pieces as much as possible. With that said, I believe in being very honest about what works and what doesn't - for example if a piece is just too big for the room, I will recommend moving it to another room where it might work better.

Do you offer discounts?

At Decor By Demi, my focus is on good design and the expertise and value that I bring as a design professional to your project. Because my business model is that I am the interior decorator as well as your retailer; I offer the best pricing possible to clients. My pricing model is to always offer products competitive to retail price on full service projects.