What Can you Accomplish with a $5,000 Decor Budget?

This is a common question that I hear a lot. My response to this question is always the same: it depends on the scope of work.

In the design world; $5,000 won’t carry you very far. Especially if your scope of work involves any renovation or gut job. This amount may only cover your demo.

But having a $5,000 budget doesn’t exclude you from accessing good design. There are 3 ways you can absolutely improve your space on a $5,000 budget. Let’s explore each one below in more detail.

$5000 decor budget: refresh your space

Refreshing a space generally refers to breathing new life into the fixed elements of a room. For example, this could include painting cabinetry in the kitchen or bathroom, reupholstering a chair, or refinishing a wood piece.

Refreshing a space will require careful planning and execution on your part to make sure you stay on budget. The method will almost certainly require some DIY love as well.

If this is an area outside of your comfort zone, you may want to consider scheduling a 2 hour consultation with an interior designer to help set you on the right path; saving you time, money, headaches and resources in the long run!

$5000 Decor Budget: Finishing Touches

The finishing touches are those decorative layers in a space that pull everything together. These items are wall art, accent pillows and decor accessories, etc. To achieve this look, your space should already be fully furnished with the necessary upholstery, rugs, window treatments, and case goods.

The goal with styling finishing touches is to arrange them in a way where they look uncluttered and pleasing to the eye. However, some homeowners may struggle with this concept.

In this case, I would recommend working with an interior designer to help you achieve the look you desire. $5,000 can be considered as a realistic budget for adding art to walls, books and accessories to bookshelves, and bringing in other items like pillows and florals for a single room. If spent carefully, you may be able to pay design fees from your $5,000 budget.

Decor By Demi offers a Decorator By Your Side service that is perfect for this! Let us help you achieve that magazine worthy look for your home!

$5000 Decor budget: design only plans

Most homeowners have been duped to believe that $5000 is enough to furnish a room thanks to home TV shows. What most clients don’t know is that these shows have sponsors who offer their products and services for free in exchange for recognition. So that lackluster living room that now looks like your favorite Pinterest image may have cost around $25k; which is the average cost for this space!

So, you have 1 of 2 options in this scenario. You can wait a few years and save up enough funds to start on your dream project. Or you can use that $5000 budget to create a design only plan that can be implemented now albeit on a much smaller scale and with the right expectations set.

By expectations I mean understanding that although the furnishings may be similar in style to your Pinterest image; it more than likely will not be of the same quality and durability. There is nothing wrong with this as long as these expectations are discussed and the differences in both options are explained to the client.

Here at Decor By Demi, we offer 2 E-Design service tiers that you can DIY at your own pace. With these services, you are able to work with an interior designer with creating an actual plan and applicable shopping list to execute the design. However; most of the work is done by the client in terms of purchasing and implementing the design.

In a nutshell, there are a few things you can accomplish with a $5000 budget. It really all boils down to knowing these options and setting the right expectations with each one. I would also strongly recommend seeking the advise of an interior designer in any option just to make sure you’re heading down the right path.

Things cost what they cost; there’s no way around that. However, if you’re a DIY lover, you can certainly stretch the limits of your budget and have access to a design that makes your home and heart happy.

Incorporating Your Personal Style at Home

Many people don’t recognize the correlation between design and fashion. However, I’m a firm believer that your personal style should connect and be reflected in your home.

Just think about your favorite outfit. Now look around your home and how it’s decorated; does it reflect your personal style?

So many people will spend time on one while neglecting the other. This doesn’t have to be! In the famous words of Lady O, “your home should rise up to meet you when you walk in the door”.

Having trouble connecting your personal style at home? Let’s explore some ideas to get you moving in the right direction.

classic

If your favorite store for everyday wear is Banana Republic, your personal style falls in the Classic category. A great resource for your styling needs at home would be Crate and Barrel.

modern

If your wardrobe is a little more edgy, colorful and you can’t live without J. Crew, your personal style is modern. Room and Board has mid century modern furnishings that would complement your home.

Bohemian

If you own every flowy dress ever created by Anthropologie and Free People, you are a lover of the Bohemian style. Justina Blackley’s Jungalow home decor is right up your alley.

Still need help defining your personal style at home? Let’s schedule a consultation so you’ll never have to worry about your decorating style and personal style clashing.

Chinoiserie Chic: Caitlin Wilson Inspired Bedroom

From time to time, I provide E-Design services to local clients in Atlanta. This digital presentation board that I designed for the client was inspired by her love of chinoiserie and wanting a feminine touch.

Needless to say, the presentation was approved!

Want to shop the look? See the sources below and get inspired!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

1. Loren Canopy Bed-One Kings Lane | 2. Valentina Chair-Caitlin Wilson | 3. Colchester Wallpaper-Caitlin Wilson | 4. Amira Pillow-Caitlin Wilson | 5. Carmen Side Table-Bungalow 5 (pricing available upon request) | 6. Scallop Trim Pillow-Caitlin Wilson | 7. Orbit G28-World’s Away (pricing available upon request) | 8. Navy Leo Pillow-Caitlin Wilson

6 Reasons You Shouldn't Hire an Interior Designer

Ah, full service design. It’s a beautiful thing; I mean the idea of a turn-key service where all your design needs are handled from idea to installation is awesome! However; its not for everyone.

What is for everyone? Having a lovely home that fits your style and budget. And sometimes, this doesn’t require hiring an interior designer or decorator for full service.

In fact, there are some people whom would be better served with an alternate design option that allows them to save money and get a look they enjoy outside of full service.

Who are these certain folks? Read on to find out who.

Reason #1: You’re Not Ready to Make an Investment

Creating a budget to invest in your home and hiring an interior designer shows you understand the value in using a professional. When you work with an interior designer, you will receive a tailored end product that meets your design needs. It’s worth it, I promise!

However, there are some people who you can’t convince otherwise. They have no interest in making the investment and surely don’t see the value. However; interior design is just like any other profession. When you go to see a doctor, you expect to pay a fee. Or when you go to a hair salon, you’re expected to pay for the service.

The same goes for an interior designer! We ARE business professionals and create a beautiful experience for our clients. This is worthy of your time and investment!

Alternative Option: A consultation with an interior designer may be your best option. This allows you to get a feel for what a designer brings to the table and helps you to understand the process involved.

Having a consultation with an interior designer may also shed some light on your ideas and help you consider things you hadn’t thought about. And if beneficial, consider saving your money for full service in the future!!

Reason #2: You Love to Shop

Can you smell a sale from a mile away? Do you spend your weekend perusing your favorite home furnishing sites like Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware? These stores are a great option for you because they allow you to get your shopping fix and offer free in-store design services.

Working with an interior designer on the other hand, is like dining at a 5 star restaurant. Each course the chef creatively prepares and serves is an experience; you don’t know all the details and magic of what goes into preparing the meal, even though the menu describes what to expect with taste.

Similarly, when a designer presents their design concept, we do not expect for clients to shop for the "ingredients." If you prefer to create your own meals, hiring an interior designer isn’t for you.

Alternative Option: Work with an interior designer on an as needed basis. This type of service is great for clients that have a project in progress but may need a second opinion on things like: selecting colors, furnishings, or finishing materials for a project. Check out my Decorator By Your Side services for more information.

Reason #3: You’re a Control Freak

Working with an interior designer requires a certain level of trust. After all, you’re letting this person into your home, your life and your wallet. As designers we understand this and make it a priority by juggling all the many pieces needed to turn your desires into a reality. However; in order to be successful at this, you have to let go.

Yes the process should be collaborative but there should be parameters with this. If you insist on being a coach instead of a team player, then you may need to consider other options.

Alternative Option: Design only consultations with an interior designer may be your best option. This allows you to dip your toes in the notion of working with an interior designer by allowing him/her to create a curated design plan for you. However; you’re ultimately responsible for purchasing said items and styling the space. Check out my E-Design Services for more information.

Reason #4: You Have Lots of Free Time

There is a lot of work that goes into designing a space. There is the design itself and then you’re sourcing items, purchasing said items and then the installation. Designers also pour time, money and effort into attending workshops and market to bring you the latest and greatest in home furnishings and solutions.

If you’re someone who has time and enjoys the idea of educating yourself on doing presentation boards, renderings and creating a design for your space, then you don’t need an interior designer.

Alternative Option: Consider purchasing blocks of time under Decorator By Your Side to help you fill in the gaps for areas you may need assistance in.

Reason #5: You Moonlight as a Hoarder

Interior designers are pretty creative at mixing your existing furnishings with new pieces if they fit into the design scheme. However; this isn’t gonna work if you insist on holding onto those dusty items from grandma’s basement that just doesn’t make good design sense!

If you prefer to keep every trinket and item from 20 years ago, then an interior designer is a no for you.

Alternative Option: Consider the Decorator By Your Side service. This option allows a designer to assist you with editing and styling your current furnishings and enhancing with new decor accessories.

Reason #6: You’re a DIY’er

As mentioned before, working with an interior designer under a full service project means the client never has to lift a finger. It really is a turn-key, concierge level service where we handle everything from designing, shopping, deliveries, installation and even dreadful returns for damaged items. Interior designers also work with reputable trades people who support those projects requiring a craftsman.

If you prefer to do all this yourself, then an interior designer isn’t the best fit.

Alternative Option: Consider a E-Design Package where a detailed design is created for you to implement yourself.

so…

Did you see yourself in any of these explanations? If so, that’s ok!

The beauty of the design industry today is that there are many ways that you CAN work with a designer. Although full-service interior design may not be the best option for you today, I encourage you to seek out a design service that both suits your personality and the beautiful home you desire.

5 Reasons Your Home Looks Dated

Does your home feel dated? Don’t know where to start?

Each season brings about a newness, a beginning of a new adventure. A new season is the perfect time to start fresh and think about home decor projects.

This fall, let’s bring your house up to date with some simple changes.

Dated Light Fixtures

Do you still have “boob lights” in your home? If so, its time to let them go. The 80’s called and they want them back! Seriously, replacing the light fixtures in your home is a quick way to make a huge impact.

I know you may be tempted to go to your big box stores but check your local resources first! These small businesses will offer lighting options from vendors not normally found in your Home Depots and Lowes.

Popcorn Ceilings

Not much to say here. Get rid of em.

Source

Heavy Drapery

Gaudy window treatments can make a room feel heavy and weighed down. The days of swags and a formal look are a thing of the past. Instead, opt for something a bit more tailored. Quality drapery panels with a decorative trim are a nice touch and will bring you up to date.

Old Carpet

Carpet that’s not cleaned and refreshed, will get old quick; not to mention the sanitary issue. I would suggest wood products in high traffic areas and leave carpet to the bedrooms. You could always layer in rugs for comfort and if you crave a warmth underfoot. There are so many wood and faux wood products to choose from with many different price points as well.

Ceiling Fans

I struggled with adding this one because I’m a Florida girl who currently resides in Georgia. In no way shape or form would I ever advocate for one to do away with ceiling fans! Buuuttt…I will advocate that you update your fans to something a bit more sleek and current that matches the look of your home.

Easy peasy, right? These simple updates will make your home feel anew. Don’t let 2019 end without considering these changes. Happy decorating!

What To Expect From Your Interior Design Consultation

Charging a consultation fee has become a common practice in the interior design industry. However; from time to time I have encountered potential clients that will inquire why I charge a fee when Suzy Q down the street does not.

This is a fair question. In the past, I’ve made countless assumptions that people understand what I do and didn’t explain things in a way that made sense to consumers. One of my current goals is to educate folks as much as possible about interior design and show the value that we bring when working with us.

This post will provide guidance on what to expect and what not to expect during the design consultation. It will also provide an understanding of why it’s such an important part of the interior design process.

So back to the original question; why do we charge a fee for the design consultation? In the first few months of my journey, I actually offered free design consultations. With this, I quickly discovered that people didn’t value my services when there wasn’t an investment attached to it. I would encounter no shows or people really being unprepared for the appointment.

Once a fee was involved, I noticed a commitment to the process; an inherent value was placed on the consultation. I saw that people now had a vested interest. Imagine that!

Besides, the hours spent riding around in your car with no reimbursement for your gas or time for no shows was a hard pill to swallow. This is time being taken away from other billable activities and that. was. not. cool.

What To Expect: the interior Design Consultation

The interior design consultation is an opportunity to see your home first hand and start the conceptual process. It’s a time to listen to your decor dilemmas, learn more about your vision for the space, how it fits in with your lifestyle, etc.

This means that we will take a tour of your home together; we will discuss what is working for you in each space and what is not. We will hone in on those problem areas you want to address for the scope of work we will embark upon.

Once we have narrowed down the problem areas to address, we then provide our best and grandest ideas. These ideas may include best ways for space layout, the addition of millwork and other architectural elements, furnishings, lighting, art, window coverings, and decor pieces. We may also look at online resources to help you visualize what we have in mind.

The next step in the interior design consultation is discussing the budget. Most times clients do not know what their budget should be. So we will do a budget exercise; this includes completing a worksheet to help clients determine a good range to consider. You can read a previous post I wrote here about the expenses associated with decorating a space along with a sample budget planning tool.

The final step in the design consultation is discussing how we work. We will go over possible challenges like delays, back orders, and damages. We discuss how we can solve them for you. We may touch on our 3 phase process and next steps to get started. We will also answer any questions you have.

Clients are always encouraged to write down possible questions ahead of the consultation to make sure you are prepared. It may also be helpful to take notes during the meeting to ensure you understand what is being presented since this can be an overwhelming time.

What Not To Expect: The Interior Design Consultation

While we may suggest our grandest ideas, they are not the actual selections. Good design is about considering the space overall and how each element relates to each other. Its about layering pieces. This often takes some thought and time to develop. This could include pulling fabric and color swatches together or creating a concept board that shows how each piece relates to each other.

In other words; design takes time and an actual design cannot be achieved in a 2 hour consultation. While interior designer/decorators can instinctively stand in a room and feel what it needs, we also can turn that initial concept into something more brilliant if given the time. You deserve our best designs and we need time to make sure those ideas work for you.

There is no physical altering of the space during the design consultation. This means we don’t hang art or re-arrange any furniture. We also do not provide any notes, paint color suggestions, etc.

Lastly, the consultation fee is not applied to the design fee or any future project should you decide to hire us. The paid fees for the consultation is strictly for our time to travel to your home and provide you with expertise. This fee is collected ahead of time (prior to the meeting) to ensure that our focus is on the design work we are there for.

The interior design consultation plays an important part in the design process. It essentially allows you to gain ideas, guidance, resources and expertise to help you make decisions and move towards the next step.

Want to schedule a design consultation? Go to my Contact Me page and let’s get you set up!

3 Myths and Misconceptions Consumers Have About Interior Design

Whenever I mention to someone that I’m an interior decorator, I’m generally hit with a bevy of questions. Some good, some bad. Over time, I’ve found that there are a lot of misconceptions about interior design professionals and the process behind what we do.

With the invention of HGTV and all the other home decor reality shows; I can understand how these myths were created. There is so much information out there that creates a false concept of how this all works. Compound that with the fact that every interior designer has a different business model that may or may not be explained in a manner that promotes trust among consumers.

With all the myths and misconceptions out there, I’ve found that there are 3 that reign supreme. What are they, you ask? Let’s dive in!

Interior design Myth #1: Interior Design is Too Expensive

This is a biggie and I can understand why. When most folks think about interior design, your mind conjures up images of the rich and famous. However, this service doesn’t have to seem elusive and non-accessible to the masses.

When you really get down to it, interior design require consumers to put together a budget. However; most never do this. Instead, consumers will buy things over a long time to decorate a space. When done this way, you don’t have a true grasp of how much was actually spent. Additionally, consideration is not given to the many layers that’s needed to bring a space to its full potential; resulting in costly mistakes because the room constantly feels “unfinished”.

When you work with designers, a budget is established at the very beginning. Our job as professionals is to see all the necessary details to bring YOUR room to a state of fabulousness. This means creating our very best design concepts; which usually comes as a sticker shock to consumers. However; the alternative may result in you spending more on your own.

interior design Myth #2: Internet Pricing is Better

The internet has done a great job of duping consumers into believing that it’s the best place to get a good deal. However; this just isn’t accurate. Sure, you may have found that “to die for” item at rock bottom pricing however; here’s a behind the scenes look of what’s going on.

• Cheaper products equate to end of stock, defective, damaged or knock-off goods. Manufacturers will make a look-a-like product compared to a higher end to the trade product. Consumers then purchase these online items thinking that are getting the exact same product for less.

• Online retailers are able to purchase products from manufacturers at a lower cost due to volume. No problem with that. However; with this volume comes an inventory full of bland products that lack customization. This means products that are stocked in colors like beige, grays, and whites that will appeal to the masses. However; when you purchase the same product through a design professional, we’re able to offer some customization.

• The goal of online retailers are to sell you a product. So you aren’t getting any professional service outside of the sale. An interior designer on the other hand, has a vested interest in your project. We want to do an amazing job designing a unique space for you! As I mentioned above, we take into account all the details to ensure you have a finished space that truly reflects you. All of this is non-existent with online retailers. So even if designers sell you a product that’s more than what you see online, you are getting much more value and satisfaction.

interior design Myth #3: Retail Store Designers & Interior Designers Are the Same

I think retail designers are very knowledgeable about their products and do a great job of educating consumers when they make a purchase. However; retail designers and interior designers are not one and the same. Just because a store offers in-home design services does not mean you are gaining access to good interior design.

Of course there are always exceptions to this however; most retail designers are sales people and their only requirement is to sell you furniture. They have not been to your home to create a design layout. They don’t consider scale, proportion and balance of the other elements that occupy your space. In other words, they don’t have the bigger picture in mind for your project. They are only interested in seeing an open area in your home where their furnishings will work. There is nothing wrong with this however; consumers need to be aware of the differences so the right expectations can be set.

Designers are able to create unique designs for your home. We have a plethora of to the trade vendors to choose from so you don’t have to worry about furniture from the same catalog. It’s truly all about the customization!

in a nutshell…

I hope this post has been insightful. I believe communication is the key to clearing up these interior design myths and misconceptions. Having a set of systems and processes in place that you can explain to potential clients is also important. Decor By Demi has created a 3 phase process that’s easy for clients to follow and allows them to understand what they’re getting. Creating a thoughtfully designed space is not as easy as it looks on TV!

Decor By Demi would be more than happy to help you with your design needs. We offer full service and DIY friendly services. You can contact me here. Let’s create a space you love!

How To Mix and Match Color and Patterns

Dammit!! That “ooh” moment you visualized in your head turned into a bust once you implemented your color and pattern scheme. You scratch your head and wonder to yourself where you went wrong.

I get it. Learning to mix and match color and patterns is harder than it seems. Between colors and scale and pattern, there’s a lot to consider. And let’s not forget how these “simple” decorating mistakes can end up being expensive. But there is hope.

Below I’ll share some common tips to consider when mixing and matching color and patterns.

mixing color & pattern-balance

Balance is the key to a successful mix & match color story! If you decide to start with a bold pattern, consider using a couple of tone on tone or solid patterns on a smaller scale in the space. This will help to create harmony and balance.

Another thing to consider when using a bold pattern is the location of the print. Perhaps if you’re using a bold pattern on a sofa, you’ll want to use the same print on a smaller scale with accent chair pillows on the opposite wall. Again, balance is important to keep in mind not just in the colors but in the locations of the bold prints.

mixing color & pattern-Monotone mixing

If you’re not quite ready to dive into the world of bold patterns, you could always start with a more simple strategy: monotone mixing. Start with one shade and choose 3-4 tones of that shade to incorporate into the space.

Another take on this concept is to choose one shade and then incorporate 2-3 subtle patterns in that shade. Think a shade of grey and then bringing in a stripe and geometric print pattern in that same grey shade. This is a sure fire strategy when mixing color and patterns!

mixing color & pattern-tried & true formula

A final tip to consider when mixing pattern and colors with accent pillows, is the tried and true formula of using one of each of the four: a floral fabric, a stripe, a geometric, and a solid. As long as each of these fabrics are within the same color family, you’re guaranteed to create a fabulous mix of color and patterns!

Do you need help creating your own color story by mixing color and patterns? If so, my Decorator By Your Side services would be the perfect solution. Click the link here and let’s get started!