There are a lot of factors that go into any interior design planning, process, and execution. Many times we think we have the whole picture when, in reality, we're only seeing the results on the surface of all that has gone on behind the scenes in order to make something a reality. Interior design is no different, and we're here to let you in on some secrets! Below we have created a list of our most commonly asked questions and put together our answers in order to give you a little more insight into the interior design world and all that goes on behind the scenes.
What is the typical price range for a kitchen remodel?
This is a popular question as well as a tough one to answer! Each interior design project is so specific to the individual's wants, needs, and desires. This means that the price range for a kitchen remodel largely depends on the individual's material and product preferences, selections, customization level, the size of their kitchen, and whether they are wanting to do a partial update to their kitchen or a full remodel. Therefore, the price can vary greatly from person to person as high end choices will be pricier than lower quality options.
How much should I set aside for my budget?
Your budget is so important when it comes to making your interior design dreams a reality. This question is so important and often overlooked by individuals. Your interior design budget largely depends on what you want done and which materials you want used. We ask what price range you have in mind for your remodel when going over your wants, needs, and desires, and that gives us a pretty good idea of whether or not your budget aligns with what you want. From there we are able to provide guidance if any changes need to be made or funds relocated to your budget.
How do I choose between interior design styles?
What are you drawn to? What are some items that you love? Do you like trendy or timeless? Neutrals or bold colors? Traditional elements or modern in form? This piece of the interior design process is all about you and what you like or dislike and what YOU want for your home. Sometimes the region or home style can help in guiding the decision as well. The more insight you can give us into your personal style, preferences, and desires, the more helpful it is in designing the home of your dreams. Don't worry if you don't know any of your style preferences though! We ask plenty of questions in every project we work on to learn exactly what you're looking for in order to guide us in the design process.
How do I decide between wood, tile, carpet, and other flooring options?
It all comes down to your lifestyle and preferences:
Wood is easy to clean because you can easily see dirt or hair that lands on it. Wood is a very popular flooring option because it can last a very long time. However, it can also become scratched overtime with kids or pets, so if you're looking to increase its longevity, you need to be sure to invest in a wood flooring that you can sand and resurface in fifteen or so years after its installation.
Tile is also easy to clean while having a higher resistance to scratches caused by kids and pets. This flooring option is colder and harder underfoot which makes it especially great to use as a flooring option in wet rooms and bathrooms.
Carpet is a nice flooring option because it is warm and soft underfoot and helps muffle noises, but it is harder to clean stains.
Cork is a sustainable resource option that is both easy to clean and softer underfoot than tile or wood. There are not as many choices when it comes to tile, but there are new cork flooring options that are very nice and actually really similar to a wood look.
How long does the interior design process usually take from start to finish?
The length of time required to complete your interior design project largely depends on the type of project, how many rooms are involved, and how many revisions and customizations there are. It can take anywhere from a month to a year (typically a few months) until you are ready to finalize the designs and place your order to move on to the next step. A huge part of the timeline is determined by the client's personal life and desired time frame.
What does the typical design process look like?
Again, this largely depends on the project since each design is so individual to the client, but here's a look at a sample design timeline:
Meet to go over the client's wants/lifestyle/budget/etc. and view the space along any restrictions it may have. (We take measurements and reference photos of the existing space at this point in time, too!)
Create an inspiration concept (this can include drawings, inspiration photos, colors, materials, etc.) and floor plan options to make sure we are both on the same page. This is when we can help give direction, our ideas for your space, and what your space can be. We go over these pieces together in order to get your feedback and make any changes and updates to the designs.
We then make any revisions and create more detailed plans. We also design supporting drawings to help the client better visualize the space. Then comes the fun part of beginning the selection process for everything! This can include using samples or images.
Go over these together with you for feedback.
Revise and finalize plans/drawings, materials, and product selections.
We then go to bid with contractors and start collecting prices for everything.
Once everything is approved and signed off on, it then goes to ordering and construction.
Will I be able to sit on a piece of furniture/feel hardware and installation samples before making a decision?
If we can get you a finish or fabric sample, we absolutely will. We love samples. Sometimes this part in the process involves you going to a local store/vendor/supplier in order to see a larger or full sized product. Not all furniture stores have their entire line available for display, but they should have one product that you can see or try out for quality.
These are a few of the most common questions we receive, and we know there is so much to learn when it comes to the interior design world. Thankfully, you can depend on your designer to be able to answer any of your questions or concerns as they arise, and you can feel confident that you will be well taken care of in their hands. Do you have a question you would like answered, or do you see something we missed? Let us know in the comments below! We can't wait to do another Q & A with you again soon!
~This blog was brought to you by S. Donnelly Interiors. Learn more about the interior design project process by following Stephanie Donnelly and her interior design services in Glen Ellyn, Illinois and the surrounding areas!
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