What does an interior designer do?

An interior designer’s focus is the form and function of a space. We partner with clients to achieve a desired aesthetic and design that enhances their lifestyle. We collaborate with other professionals like architects and contractors as needed, based on the type and scale of the project. As the designer we select all of the finishes for the home (like tile, plumbing etc) and furniture.

How is an interior designer different from an architect or contractor?

Interior designers focus on the aesthetic vision of a space, selecting finishes like tile, furniture, and fixtures. We collaborate with architects, who are experts in the building's structure, and contractors, who execute the design plans crafted by both the architect and designer.

What do I need to know about hiring an interior designer?

The most important thing to know is that working with an interior designer can be a rewarding, stress-free process. In addition to helping you create a beautiful home, we can define the budget and scope of your project. We also have the connections and recommendations to help you hire the right contractors to complete the work. We take on both renovations and new builds but also furnishings and soft good selections.

What is ‘full service’ interior design?

Full service interior design is a comprehensive turn-key service that takes the project from concept to completion. We take care of every detail—from sourcing items to working with tradespeople and even coordinating orders and deliveries. At the end, we install the new design so all you have to do is enjoy your new space.

How do you establish your design fees?

Each project presents its own unique challenges, so we craft a project specific scope of work and proposal.

How does the process work?

The first step is to complete an inquiry form—for both local and distance projects. After the inquiry form is received, we’ll contact you to schedule a complimentary 20-minute phone call to further review your project. If we're a good fit, we move to a scope of work meeting or call. During this meeting review the spaces you’d like to see transformed. We talk through the details of timeline, budget, and specific concerns to create a complete scope of work. We use this information to craft a proposal unique to your project. We then present our proposal including our plan for executing the design, budget and timeline.

How do you present your design ideas? What if I want to make changes after presentation?

We present all the details during an in-person presentation. We provide as many samples as possible and walk you through the proposed design. We also have the ability to offer 3D renderings to help you visualize your new space. Revisions are built-in to the design process. We love client feedback and are always open to amending the design to be exactly what you envisioned.

What if I want to make changes after the presentation?

Revisions are a crucial part of the design process and collaborative nature of working with clients. We love client feedback to ensure we are aligning with your vision of the space.

What is an expected project timeline?

Every project is different and wiht supply chains project timelines have been even harder to predict. Our furnishing and renovation projects are taking between 8-12 months+ and our new build construction projects are always a year or more. We always encourage prospective clients to reach out 6-12 months prior to the start of a project. Good design takes time and we like to be fully prepared when construction starts.

Have a timeline already established? Reach out to us and we’d be happy to discuss the project and goals with you.

Do you welcome client’s opinions and perspectives?

OF COURSE! Our job is to create beautiful designs, taking into consideration the client’s perspective, lifestyle, and goals for the home. We love hearing about the way you live in your home. It’s a collaborative process, and nothing is more satisfying for us than creating a space that genuinely represents our clients lives and stories.

I don’t live in Minneapolis, but want to work with you. What services are available to me?

We do offer interior design and renovation services outside of Minneapolis! Our process is the same for local or distance work. For our out of state clients we build in site visits as an extra measure to ensure that everything is going to plan.

I don’t want to change my entire house, but I need help with small projects.

We’re here to help with interior design projects of all sizes. Our ideal projects are extensive renovations or new builds involving a complete approach to the spaces including finish, fixture and furniture selections. We always leave a little extra room in our schedule for projects of smaller scale that allow for creative freedom.

Reach out to discuss your project with us OR visit The Expert for a 1:1 consultation with Creative Director Julia Miller.

We can’t wait to hear from you!