Design Notes
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. I ask that you do not select or purchase items because they may not fit the design, space, or budget. You will receive a detailed Specification for items to be purchased directly.
What Additional Cost Can I Expect?
I do my best to give you a complete cost outlook of each item, but additional costs such as storage, shipping, installation, or unexpected labor 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 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 forums. 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 and all professionals hired to work on the project are expected not to cause unreasonable delays. 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 accept or decline the item. For acceptance, a signed copy of the proposal or approval on Studio Projects and full payment are required to place an order. No item will be ordered by the Designer until the Designer receives the signed proposal and complete 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 over 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. You make the decision about what is purchased and installed in your home.
What About A Budget?
We can work within your budget, whether you are looking for a completely custom masterpiece, something more along the lines of Pottery Barn, or a mix of the two. Having a budget is very important for the project to run smoothly and for your expectations to be met.
How Are Items Delivered?
Our policy is to perform one large installation of all your items, including 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 not to deliver items to clients’ homes directly or in multiple trips. Clients are responsible for all shipping, storage, and delivery fees.
How Do You Invoice Your Time?
In an effort to be as transparent as possible, I try to 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 completed tasks.
Walker WoodworkingOne of the main questions asked during the design meeting is what color the owners want for their kitchen cabinets. Were they looking to do a natural wood or a color instead? While many will opt to do the wood, many enjoy adding a splash of color to their kitchen or mixing and matching. It is a great way to break up the area and create a focal point, but with so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? While it is up to you in the end, there are three colors that have stood out for some time and will most likely continue to do so. White, gray, and blue remain high on the selection chart, so let’s talk about these popular colors and why they may be the right fit for you.
Walker WoodworkingWhile the kitchen was often viewed as the place where food was merely prepped and served, it has transitioned into a command center as people gather to talk or enjoy a snack while getting some work done. Layouts have slowly shifted to accommodate this change, which has produced the open concept. This floor plan allows families to stay connected even when they are doing things in different areas of the home. While not as popular as it was in the 1990s and early 2000s, many families still choose this floor plan because of their desire to stay close to their family and guests. Today, we want to discuss the open floor concept, the elements that make it up, and if it is the right fit for your family.
Greenbrook DesignYou have just waved goodbye to your last child as they head out to college. While you adjust to not having kids in the house, you also begin to realize that you now have more space, but you’re not sure what to do with it. There are many ways to reuse the space, expand existing spaces, or make room for something new. Let’s take a look at the design possibilities available to you.
In the second of our three-part series on selection tips, we want to focus on tile. Backsplash, shower walls, and flooring are just a few of the many uses for tile since it is beautiful, durable, and timeless. Sometimes considered a small part of the design, it has the potential to make a big impact on the design. Here are some helpful tips when choosing tile.
While cabinets tend to be the focal point of the main spaces, such as kitchens and bathrooms, it is the details that add the final touch to the design. The selection process can be one of the highlights of the design phase, but it can also be overwhelming with multiple styles, colors, and options. In this three-part series, we want to give our best tips for the top three categories of selections and help make this as enjoyable and simple as possible. Our focus today is hardware.
Greenbrook Design
Walker Woodworking