Interior Design Project Common Questions and Answers
Post by Stacey Walker. Stacey mostly works behind the scenes for Greenbrook Design, managing day to day operations, marketing, sourcing product and keeping the showroom beautifully designed. Stacey also does interior design & home styling for a select number of clients. Find out more about Stacey here.
For Services provided by Greenbrook Design – Ask the designer.
Can I shop on my own?
You have hired me to design and complete a vision for your space and I ask that you do not select or purchase items because that selection may not be a fit for the design, space, or budget. You will receive a detailed Specification for items to be purchased direct.
What additional cost can I expect?
I do my best to give you a full cost outlook of each item, but additional costs such as storage, shipping, installation, or unexpected labor do occasionally happen. For a very detailed explanation of possible hidden costs read: The Hidden Costs of Interior Design
Do you work with contractors?
I work with the contractors hired by the client. I love working with other design professionals to create your custom space. I prefer to use professionals that I have worked with on previous projects and can provide recommendations when necessary. Greenbrook Design does not provide contractor services; so independent architects and contractors hired by the client are an integral part of the process.
How long do projects normally last?
You will find this on many interior design questions and answers forum. This depends on the scope of the project and what is purchased. Occasionally there are delays caused by weather, vendor vacations, factory errors, and other unpredictable influences, that are out of my control. The client, as well as all professionals hired to work on the project, are expected to not cause unreasonable delays in the project. Custom ordered projects can take 4-12 weeks to receive once ordered.
How do I place an order?
Once you receive a Proposal you have 3 days to either accept or decline the item. For acceptance, a signed copy of the proposal or approval on Studio Projects along with full payment is required to place an order. No item will be ordered by Designer until Designer receives the signed proposal and full payment.
Can I change my mind after an order is placed?
Most often orders cannot be canceled or refunded. In the event that a full refund can be attained you may cancel the order and receive a refund for the cost of the item minus the purchasing fee and any other applicable fees. You will be charged hourly for the time spent on canceled orders. Custom orders are not refundable.
When are payments due?
Proposals are due with payment within 3 days. Invoices for time billing and reimbursable expenses are due within 14 days. Invoices more than 30 days past due will accrue a 10% late fee per month and all work will cease until the invoice is paid.
What if I decide to add more to the scope of work mid-design?
Since I work hourly, increasing the scope is not a problem.
What if I have concerns about an item?
Please bring these to my attention immediately and we will discuss your concerns and if necessary, find a more desirable solution. The decision about what is purchased and installed in your home is ultimately yours.
What about a budget?
We can work within your budget, whether you are looking for a completely custom masterpiece or more along the lines of Pottery Barn or a mix of the two. Having a budget is very important for the project running smoothly and for your expectations to be met.
What is the difference between a specification and a proposal?
A Specification is a document that I provide the details for you to purchase an item yourself? You will pay the vendor directly. A Proposal is a document where I am requesting payment for items so that I can purchase the item on your behalf. Proposals are payable to Greenbrook Design.
How are items delivered?
Our policy is to perform one large installation of all your items. This includes all furniture and accessories purchased. Items purchased by Greenbrook Design go into a licensed, bonded, insured and climate-controlled warehouse awaiting installation. It is our policy to not deliver items to client’s homes directly or in multiple trips. Clients are responsible for all shipping, storage, & delivery fees.
How do you invoice your time?
In an effort to be as transparent as possible, I try and detail out design time. For example, I may spend my day researching products and putting together a design board. I do my best to detail the date, time spent and a general summary of what was completed.
What is your response time by email and or text?
A design project can be very time consuming even when I am not directly working on your project, it is always close at mind. I am usually available to answer questions and will reply to text and emails when possible on normal business days between the hours of 7 am and 7 pm. If I am in town, I am usually available on Saturdays between 9 & 4. We hope these interior design questions and answers have helped you in the area of design. If you have any other questions we are more than happy to answer them.
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