Frequently Asked Questions

I can assist  and make your space beautiful and functional.  I design affordable luxury that follows current trends and suits your lifestyle.  I provide direction from beginning to end, saving you time, effort and worry about making the right selections.  I also present and share the many reliable resources that I’ve come to know over the years that represent my brand and will meet your expectations.

Often I can save you money by helping you avoid costly design mistakes and through my access to trade-only resources for purchasing products.  Additionally, my design work adds value to your home, which could result in a higher price when you sell some day in the future.  I often say to my clients, “I am here to save you money, not to spend it!”

Then I come up with alternatives.  The design process is not about what I like.  It’s about defining you own personal style and creating a space that fits your lifestyle.  There are many ways to design a space.  We’ll discuss all possible solutions before any budgets are spent.

That is my favorite project!  When you have existing furnishings, artwork and accessories, we will have discussions as to what is appropriate and viable for the ultimate outcome.  Repurposing, reupholstery and painting go a very long way.  Your personal taste and budget will dictate what we use.  Whether the project is new construction, remodeling or simply decorative, we can create a space you’ll love and incorporate the elements that are special to you.

I obtain products from manufacturers, trade vendors, catalogs, mail order, brick-and-mortar locations, name-brand clearance center, special-to-the-trade showrooms and workrooms.  I’ve established relationships with so many of these places and people over the years.

I also source products from retailers you know.  I have been known to go to the curb to Cartier, to the dumpster to Donghia.  I look everywhere for great design and the potential of all the elements combined to make a cohesive, interesting and unique place for you.

You can also find me treasure hunting for high-end vintage furnishings in consignment stores and places like the Paris flea market, sending you live pics from my iPhone for you to approve.

This work requires skilled craftspeople. I have contractors I’ve worked with for years; some for decades!  I have expectations to meet for the project and the contractors I engage know this.  Often the client has their own contractors and resources, and I am always happy to work with them to complete our vision.

That’s totally up to you.  You can be as involved as you’d like.  I can bring samples to you, and you can make your decisions.  I can go shopping and send you photos.  You can join me shopping if you’d prefer.  I’ve also had clients who’ve given me the keys and left the country, telling me when they’ll be back to see the finished job.  I’ll work with you in whatever way you want that is viable for a successful outcome and meet your expectations.

As you would expect, costs vary based on the scope of the project.  I am mindful of my client’s budget.  I believe in affordable luxury.  Over the years, I’ve done projects ranging from $1,000 to $1,000,000.  I’ll always provide you with budgets and pricing before any purchases are made.

I do my best to meet deadlines and will tell you up front if your timeline is realistic.  I recently had to design a new home in just three weeks because the owners were expecting family for Christmas. I took care of everything – flooring, furniture, rugs, artwork, new kitchen, bathrooms, guest room, etc.  I lost 10 pounds eating apples and peanut butter, but I got the job done!  The clients and family were very happy!