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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

You have questions. We have answers. If the answer to your question isn’t found here, please contact us. We’re happy to discuss your vision whenever you are ready.

WE HAVE WORKED DILIGENTLY TO MAKE THE INTERIOR DESIGN PROCESS APPROACHABLE AND LESS INTIMIDATING, BUT EVERY NEW PROJECT HOLDS ITS OWN SET OF QUESTIONS.

FAQs

Spectrum Design Group

Interior design is the combination of art and science used to improve the aesthetic and functionality of an interior space. Our interior designers work with you to understand your needs and preferences, then use their creativity and technical skills to develop a design plan that meets those needs while also considering factors such as space planning and budget constraints. Interior design requires knowledge of architecture, engineering, and psychology (sometimes “marriage counselor” should be added to our titles), as well as an understanding of design principles, color theory, and lighting design.

An interior designer helps transform your living space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. An interior designer’s role is to understand your vision and pain points then develop a design plan that improves functionality and specify materials and finishes that support your vision. Once the design work is completed, some interior designers will manage the construction phase of your project (we do!). Overall, an interior designer provides you with the expertise, creativity, and resources necessary to create a beautiful and functional environment that reflects your unique style and meets your specific needs.

The decision to hire an interior designer or an interior decorator depends on the scope and complexity of your project. Interior designers are trained in architecture, design, and building codes, and can help with space planning, structural changes, and construction. Interior decorators focus primarily on the aesthetics of a space, such as selecting furniture, finishes, and color schemes. They do not typically handle structural changes or major renovations. If you are doing a larger project that involves major renovation, it may be best to work with an interior designer. If you are primarily focused on decorating an existing space, such as updating the furniture and décor, an interior decorator may be the best choice. Ultimately, the decision to hire an interior designer or an interior decorator will depend on your specific needs and the scope of your project. It’s important to research and interview potential professionals to find the right fit for your project.

We love what we do and that comes through in how we work. Waking up each day with the opportunity to meet new people and create beautiful spaces is a blessing we don’t take for granted. Our love of design and people drive us. We’re fun and creative and don’t take ourselves too seriously. We’re a team of problem solvers who want to create spaces our clients love and, in the end, hope to call those clients friends.

Yes, you can order all your materials through us – cabinetry, flooring, tile, lighting, wall coverings, decorative plumbing, electrical fixtures, etc.

Yes, our studio has an extensive design library. Once we move into the specification phase of your project, we will curate material samples if we don’t already have it for you. We provide access to unique materials from all over the globe to make your project individually yours.
We get this question a lot. We take great care to help you develop a realistic budget and direct your dollars to get the most impact. To help guide you, our kitchen and bath renovations typically start at $100,000 and $50,000 respectively.
Absolutely! We offer turnkey service which means we will work with you to design your new space, provide the materials, hire the contractors who will complete the work, and handle the project administration. We become your single point of contact throughout your project and your assurance that the quality level and design intent are met.

Before we begin working together, we will provide you with an estimate of hours for the design portion of your project (everything to the point of starting construction). It is a detailed estimate, but you will be billed for actual time spent on your project. We have invested heavily in technology and continuing education so we can work as efficiently as possible. Sometimes the scope of work changes as the project progresses that may cause the amount of hours to increase. We are sure to communicate if it appears the hours will exceed the estimate and pause until we get your approval to continue. If it ends up being less, again, you are only charged for the hours actually worked.

In general, an interior designer is a professional who is trained in the art and science of enhancing the interior of a building or space to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. Our design team here at SDG works with you to understand your needs, preferences, and budget constraints, then they use their creativity and technical skills to develop a design plan that alleviates your pain points, improves functionality, and endures the test of time.

 

Our interior designers have knowledge of design principles, color theory, and spatial relationships. Overall, an interior designer is a professional who can help you create a beautiful and functional living or working environment that reflects your unique style and meets your specific needs.

You can see how we work and our entire process here.
We can help you with the design and specifications and then let you take it from there. However, we have found that the most successful projects are ones with which we are involved from start to finish.

You are always welcome to stop by our studio. We know your time is valuable, so it’s best to let us know you’re coming. We often work remotely, are in meetings, or on a jobsite, so an appointment will ensure somebody is there to meet you and have what you need ready to go.

The scope of your project will have the greatest influence on your project schedule. Typically, the design phase for a residential project takes about six to eight weeks. Construction timelines have too many variables to give you a general estimate without knowing the full scope. Before work begins, however, we will give you a realistic schedule for both the design and construction phases to help you plan.

We occasionally will have clients who want to execute certain portions of their construction project on their own. We don’t prohibit it, but it is something we will want to talk through. Depending on what portion you want to take on, it usually adds to the project timeline and does not save as much cost as you may think.

Interior decoration is usually not a standalone service we provide – it is included as part of a larger design project. However, we do offer consultations to answer questions about feasiblity or to help with furniture layout or choose paint colors. If decoration is indeed the type of service you need, we are happy to refer you to decorators who will do an excellent job.

Absolutely! We have many repeat clients to where it only makes sense to continue working with the same designer. There are also times where a specific designer was referred, and we will certainly honor that. We are intentional about pairing you with a designer that will provide a great experience. It is important to note that behind the scenes, each project is usually touched by every member of our team to leverage our collective strengths.

The differences between an interior designer and an interior decorator are their education, training, and scope of work. While both strive to make living spaces more aesthetically pleasing, interior designers typically have formal education in interior design, architecture, or a related field, which gives them a broad understanding of design principles, construction techniques, computer aided drafting (CAD), architecture, and color theory. Interior decorators, on the other hand, may have some formal training in design or art, but it is not typically required.

Interior designers work on a wide range of projects and can handle everything from space planning and structural changes to selecting finishes and lighting. Interior decorators, focus primarily on the aesthetics of a space, such as selecting colors, fabrics, furniture, and décor.

Our design team here, provides a range of services, including initial consultations, design concepts, project management, and coordination with contractors and other professionals. While some of our projects do include furniture selection and layout, we primarily focus on solving problems, improving functionality, and ensuring the design is enduring.

Interior design is the art and science of enhancing the interior of a building to create a more functional and beautiful environment. However, it’s about more than just aesthetics. While interior design certainly focuses on making a space beautiful, it’s also about creating a functional and efficient space that meets your needs. One of the most important aspects of interior design is space planning, which involves creating a layout that maximizes the functionality and flow of a space. Color is also important as it can affect mood and set the tone for a space. It’s important to choose colors that complement each other and fit the style and purpose of the room. Lighting is another crucial aspect of interior design, as it creates ambiance, highlights design elements, and affects how colors and textures are perceived.

 

Interior design requires attention to a lot of small details, from selecting the right hardware for cabinets to choosing the perfect decorative accessories. Every detail counts when it comes to creating a cohesive and beautiful environment.

 

Overall, interior design is about creating an area that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and reflective of the people who will be using it. It requires a blend of creativity, technical skills, and attention to detail to create a beautiful and functional space.

“That’s a tough one. I would have to say April 25th. Because it’s not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket.” – Miss Congeniality

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