1) Are you an Interior Designer, Decorator or Redesigner? And what is the difference?

I am an Interior Designer by my college education; however my focus has always been Decorating and Redesign so this is my chosen specialty. Interior Designers typically deal with large, long-term projects which often include writing specifications for trades, public safety, project management and being involved in the construction of buildings. I prefer to specialize in making spaces functional and beautiful which is Decorating. I also have additional training and certification in Redesign and Staging, which are related specialties. The terms Interior Designer, Interior Decorator and Redesigner tend to be used interchangeably in many areas including here in Michigan.
 

2) How will the Redesign process work?

First, during the consultation I will discuss your goals for the room. Then I will measure and take photographs. We will discuss costs and whether or not to include new purchases. At that point if you are ready to proceed we will set the date for the redesign. On Redesign Day, you may decide to leave the house for a few hours while we go about transforming the space. We prefer that the client not be around while we work so that we can focus on the space. Of course you may be elsewhere in the home – but no peeking! When it’s all done, we invite you in for the final ‘reveal.’ I’m sure you will be thrilled! At this point I may make a list of things I feel would complete the room or make suggestions regarding future purchases. No obligation, but I can help you acquire these if you wish.
 

3) How do you Decorate?

I start with a consultation to asses the client’s goals and budget. I will usually make a floor plan. At this point we usually begin with choosing things such as carpet, tile, paint and other surfaces. The client deals directly with the supplier and I can refer if necessary. Once these are determined we shop for furniture and major accessories. Once all the surfaces are installed and furniture delivered, I will shop for the accessories and come over and put the ‘finishing touches’ on the space. I am completely service-based, and do not sell or promote any products. You are merely paying for my time.
 

4) How do I know whether I need a Redesign or Decorating?

If you like what you have but are bored with it or haven’t quite been able to make it work then you are a candidate for a Redesign. However, if your furnishings are very dated, or worn, you need new surfaces such as carpeting then it’s often best to Decorate. But there really isn’t a clear-cut line where it’s Decorating versus Redesign – in MOST cases we use some old, and some new.
 

5) What is the difference between Redesign and Staging?

Redesign and decorating are all about making a personal space for the people who live there. Staging is completely the opposite – it’s about making an impersonal space for the typical homebuyer. We need to take YOU out of your house and make the potential buyer think it’s THEIR perfect house!
 

6) Do you have a particular style you do the most?

No, I keep my personal taste out of it. I completely work with my clients’ tastes, goals and desires. Therefore I do all sorts of styles – it’s all based on the client.
 

7) Do you work alone?

For consultations and shopping I work alone. For Redesigns and Showcasing I normally work with an assistant. If there will be an additional fee for my assistant this will be communicated to you at the initial consultation.       
 

8) Do you do ‘custom work’?

Since I specialize in One Day Decorating, I refer out to other professionals who specialize in the sub-trades, for example blinds, painting, etc.
 

9) What if I’m not happy with my redesign or the things you shopped for?

We all have different tolerance levels for ‘change.’ Sometimes we think that we don’t like something but it’s really just that we are not used to it yet. If you don’t think that you like what I’ve done, I will ask you to leave it for a week. If after that time you still don’t like it then I will put it back to the way it was free of charge. All items I’ve purchased can be returned to me within two days of leaving them in your home.
 

10) Are you insured?

Yes, I’m fully insured.