Hiring an Interior Designer can be a bit daunting because there is no "standard" way of charging for services. Each designer does it a bit differently so its understandable that these questions pop up frequently. Read on for the most commonly asked questions and how Alicia Thomasson Interiors handles these topics:
Common Question #1: How do you work?
This is a loaded question, but I'll take it as "what is your process like and how do you expect to be paid for it?"
Well, we start with a Discovery Call. This allows us get to know each other and understand which service suits you the best. From there, we decide how to move forward, whether that is New Build/Reno Design, Furnishings, or Consulting. A customized proposal is sent out with the scope of work and design fee. Once we get measurements, the design phase begins; utilizing mood boards, floor plans and renderings. Revisions are made if needed and once the final design is approved, we begin the ordering and procurement process. Our job is to make sure the agreed upon vision is carried out, which includes site visits, contractor communication, and an exciting Install Day.
Common Question #2: How do you charge?
We charge a flat Design Fee based on the scope of work. This rate is broken into payments made at specific milestones of the project. Payments can be made by credit card/ACH online or by check.
Common Question #3: What if I don’t like the design?
One full round of revisions is included for each design phase of the project. That means one round of revisions in the Conceptual Phase and one round of revisions in the Detailed Design phase. Any additional changes will require a change order and appropriate fee.
Common Question #4: Where do you source from?
We have a trusted network of vendors and professionals at various price points to assure clients get the look and quality they want at an investment they are comfortable with.
Common Question #5: Do I get a designer discount?
To begin, let me quickly touch on the fact that when you buy something at your local gift shop, coffee shop, literally anywhere - they are marking up products gasp. The bagel you're paying $4 for did not cost them $4. That just wouldn't make sense, they need a markup or they'd go out of business. But do you ask them how much the bagel cost them and do the math on their markup? Again, no. Healthy profit margins aren't "yucky" but are quite standard and absolutely necessary. Translating this to the world of design, we may be getting a designer discount, yes, but that is for us as a business to thrive.
While we do not pass discounts onto clients, we charge reasonable retail or less on the items. The procurement process is a hands off luxury service where items magically get ordered, delivered and installed. Well, not magically. Something has to pay for it - and that my friends, is the markup.
Comments