FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PROCESS? Our process for working with new clients is outlined below:
Initial Consultation: Our first meeting is used to define the scope and needs of the project so that a budget and timeline can be prepared.
Letter of Agreement and Work Acknowledgement: The initial meeting is followed up with a Letter of Agreement and a Work Acknowledgement outlining our process, the proposed schedule and proposed budget. Our goal is to adhere to both the timeline and budget provided that the scope of the design phase is not altered.
Information Gathering: Once the letter of agreement is approved, the designer will meet with the client to address functional needs, space allocations, furniture and furnishing needs, aesthetic and design considerations. We will request blueprints or plans of the spaces being designed. Existing furniture being used in new space will be measured, inventoried and photographed.
Design Phase: During the design phase, the client will be presented with presentations including, but not limited to: Plan Analysis, Drawings and Sketches, Online presentation boards, Sample Finishes, Written Specifications and Tear Sheets for non-furnishings and finishes.
Presentation of Design: The selections made during this process will be prepared in a pdf specification format that can be emailed to builders for pricing.
WHAT ADDITIONAL COSTS CAN I EXPECT? We do our best to give you a full cost outlook of each item, but additional costs such as storage, shipping, installation, or unexpected labor do occasionally happen.
DO YOU WORK WITH CONTRACTORS? We work with the contractors hired by the client. We love working with other design professionals to create your custom space. We prefer to use professionals that we have worked with on previous projects and can provide recommendations when necessary.
HOW LONG DO PROJECTS NORMALLY LAST? 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 our control. The client, as well as, all professionals hired to work on the project are expected to not cause unreasonable delays in the project.
HOW DO I PLACE AN ORDER? Once you receive a Proposal you can either accept or decline the item. For acceptance, a signed copy of the proposal or approval online, along with full payment is required to place an order. No item will be ordered by Designer until Designer receives approved proposal and full payment.
CAN I CHANGE MY MIND AFTER AN ORDER IS PLACED? Most often orders cannot be cancelled 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 any other applicable fees. Custom orders are non-refundable.
WHAT IF I DECIDE MID-PROJECT I WANT TO ADD MORE TO THE SCOPE? Since we work hourly, increasing the scope is not a problem.
WHAT IF I HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT AN ITEM? Please bring these to our attention immediately and we will discuss your concerns and if necessary, find a more desirable solution. The decision about what is purchased and installed in your home is ultimately yours.
WHAT ABOUT BUDGET? We can work within your budget, whether you are looking for a completely custom home or more along the lines of Pottery Barn or a mix of the two. Having a budget is very important for the project running smoothly and for your expectations to be met.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SPECIFICATION & PROPOSAL? A Specification is a document that we provide with the details of an item you wish to purchase directly through your builder or contractor. A Proposal is a document where we are requesting payment for items so that we can purchase the item on your behalf. Proposals are payable to The Picket Fence Interior Design.
HOW ARE ITEMS DELIVERED? We prefer to perform one large installation of all your items. This includes all furniture and accessories purchased. Items purchased by The Picket Fence Interior Design go into a licensed, bonded, insured and climate-controlled warehouse awaiting installation. It is our policy to not deliver items to client’s homes directly or in multiple trips if possible. Clients are responsible for all shipping, storage, & delivery fees.
