Design Notes

Interior Design Project Common Questions and Answers

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.

What Is Your Response Time By Email and Or Text?

A design project can be very time-consuming; even when I am not working directly on your project, it is always on my mind. I am usually available to answer questions and will reply to texts and emails when possible on regular 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.

Rugs have long been a staple in interior design, often described as the “shoes” of a room—they complete the look. Whether subtly complementing a color palette or boldly standing out as a statement piece, rugs add warmth, texture, and personality to any space. A well-chosen rug can effortlessly transform the entire feel of a room.

However, traditional rugs come with their share of drawbacks. From frequent deep cleaning (which often means renting equipment and moving heavy furniture) to concerns about allergies and curled edges that pose tripping hazards, maintaining a rug can be more work than many homeowners anticipate.

That’s why we’re excited to introduce an elegant, low-maintenance alternative: Vintage Vinyl floor cloths.

In today’s tech-savvy world, it’s easy to find decorating tips and budget advice with just a few clicks. Popular shows on networks like HGTV make home remodeling look fast and effortless—transforming entire kitchens or bathrooms in under an hour. While these shows are inspiring, what often goes unseen is the extensive planning and detail required behind the scenes to bring those transformations to life.

At the heart of nearly every successful project is one key factor: staying on budget.

a bedroom with a bed and a chair

Window treatments not only provide shade and privacy, but they also allow the homeowner to show their personality. No person is the same, and neither should their window treatments.  They are meant to be a reflection of you and your style. Whether you prefer a more contemporary or traditional style, solar or soft roman shades, wood or pleated, Graber’s vast array of colors, options, and designs will surely suit anyone’s taste. Learn more about Graber on our product page or come visit us in our showroom located in Shelby, NC, and ask to see our Graber display. We would love to help you add the finishing touches to that space where nature and home meet.

Moe’s Home Collection is, today, one of our greatest finds at the High Point Furniture Market.  Three years ago, we stumbled across Moe’s during one of our twice-annual trips to High Point. We fell in love with their rustic, industrial modern furniture and home decor.

An organized kitchen is the foundation of a smooth cooking experience, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—creating delicious meals. When designing your new kitchen, it’s essential to plan your space thoughtfully. This includes not only considering large items but also measuring smaller essentials, such as cutlery, plates, and platters, to ensure every item has a designated space. A well-organized kitchen isn’t just visually pleasing; it makes daily tasks more efficient and enjoyable.