Builders have a level of expertise in actually constructing your new home or addition. However, a designer’s specialty is in translating those details into furniture, fixtures, and finishes which turn your dream into reality. When I come into a project mid-stream, I often need to recommend framing changes. At this stage, alterations are critical and costly, extending the timeline for going back to undo both the plans and the work. And you’ll spend funds which could be allocated elsewhere.

During the design presentation phase, I present 3D renderings which give clients a visual, bringing your new home or addition to life. Then, we can move on to finalizing the construction documents. After all the framing decisions are made, we’ll move onto the more decorative elements like furniture and flooring finishes. And I’ll walk you through each stage, one by one.

Having an interior designer review your architectural plans before breaking ground addresses these things early in the process. Each time, I am able to suggest strategic improvements which transform the end result. Knowing how this will translate into a real-world dynamic, I prefer to start here. I’ll discuss the details with the architect and builder, giving a designer’s perspective from experience of directing these projects from start to finish. This ensures you receive everything your heart desires – and it also saves you time and money.

Am I able to come in at a later point? Yes, of course, I’ll come in at whatever stage you’re at and give you my best professional efforts. However, in my decades of experience in this industry, bringing me in early to review the plans is imperative to achieving the end result you’re wanting. From new home construction to remodeling, make sure to start your project right.

Interior designers and decorators prefer to purchase from our to-the-trade vendors for many reasons, one being the accessibility to customize every aspect of a piece of furniture. But why customize? There are key advantages to structuring a piece, so it fits not only your room but also your preferred function. Seating depth is one example, and ready-made off-the-floor companies will only give a standard depth. For those taller or more petite, or for smaller-scale rooms, this might not be ideal.

Good furniture should be an investment, carefully evaluated before purchasing to ensure it will provide a good ROI. Will the frame construction hold up for repeated use long-term, or will it deteriorate after just a few years? Will the upholstery fabric be durable enough? Will the look last, or will it appear dated after current trends wane?

An interior designer knows how to use our resources to find the pieces which work with the floorplan, ensuring a consistent design across your entire home. Many people think custom or semi-custom furniture automatically equates with the highest possible pricing and, consequently, rule it out before even asking. Not necessarily. As with everything, there is a range in pricing. Regardless, my priority is to make the pieces fit your design aesthetic and your space – while also guiding you to make the most informed investment.

During the design concept and finalization phases, I’ll iron out the ideal layout and decide what size and scale of furniture to recommend. Then I’ll open my designer portal, a curated list of sources to hand-pick the best options for you (check out my process page for details). This gives you access to a new world of furniture, full of selections only available through working with a designer.

If you’re ready to discuss buying more custom furniture, contact me to set up a consultation.