If you've ever argued with your spouse in a store while you attempt to pick out a sofa, only to have it show up and not fit in your space, then working with an interior designer might just be for you. 

My job is not only to create beautiful rooms; it's to help my clients' homes function for their family's busy lifestyle. Whether it's an entire house or a single room makeover, I bring creative solutions to tricky spaces and help you maximize your dollars to get the most out of your home.

Improved flow (e.g., an open-concept first floor)
Upgraded function (e.g., a finished basement for the kids)
Better aesthetics (e.g., installing custom woodwork or mosaic tile)
Authenticity (e.g., a home customized to your personality and comfort)

The value a full service interior designer provides cannot be overstated. I save my clients money consistently by mitigating costly mistakes and getting the design done right the first time. Not to mention, the valuable time recouped by the client when I take over handling the project from beginning to end. In short, you'll save money, mistakes, relationships AND get a gorgeous home at the end of it.

What can an interior designer help me with?

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 my control. The client as well as all professionals hired to work on the project are expected to not cause unreasonable delays in the project.

Covid has changed everything; previously, a complete room design took anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks from approval of the initial concept to final installation of the room. Current room transformations are estimated at 9 months.My best advice is to be patient and remember that the final product is always worth the wait. It’s not advisable to attempt room redos a month out from an anticipated occasion such as party or holiday season.

What is a realistic timeline? How long will it take?

Having a realistic budget is very important for the project running smoothly and for your expectations to be met. It's difficult to give a single price or packaged rate as each project is completely different and depends on the final scope.  Design fees are $150 an hour and billed on a monthly basis.  Hourly services can be capped, but there is a minimum of 10 hours per complete room design to get the best possible results and allow for any unforeseen issues.

For reference, a range of pricing:
FULL SERVICE LIVING ROOM : $20,000-40,000
CONSULTING ON FINISHES AND COLOR: $2750-5000
2000 sq ft LAKE HOUSE FURNISHINGS BUDGET: $75,000-100,000

If we’re only assisting with the furnishings, we recommend spending an average of 20% of the price of the home. At any given time, we could have a client with a $50,000 budget and one with a budget of $200,000. It really depends on the size of the home and the project scope. Based on the budget we develop, we’ll share past projects that are similar in size to give you an idea of what to expect at that price point. If need be, we can also do a site walk-through. This is one of the best parts of my job. I’m able to assess the current structure of the home, inside and out. I’ll point out to you all the potential of your new home!

How much does it cost?

At this time, I do not offer virtual design services. I want to provide the best possible experience - and result - for my clients. The best way to ensure that is through face-to-face encounters, accurate measurements, and a relationship that is based on trust.

Do you offer e-design?

How do I get started?

Pencil Shavings does not provide contractor services.

I happily work with builders and contractors hired by the client. I love working with other design professionals to create your custom space. 

Do you work with contractors?

Our policy is to perform a single installation of all your items when possible. HOWEVER: DELAYS DUE TO COVID-19 MEAN THAT WE ARE NOW WORKING ON A MULTIPLE-INSTALLATION BASIS.  Frequently items are delayed, backordered, arrive damaged, etc., which is out of our control. In these cases, we review the situation on a case-by-case basis to determine what is the best solution to get the majority of the products installed in a timely manner. This includes all furniture and accessories purchased.

Items purchased by Pencil Shavings go into a licensed, bonded, insured and climate-controlled warehouse awaiting installation. It it our policy to not deliver items to client’s homes directly. Clients are responsible for all shipping, storage, & delivery fees.

I do my best to give you a full cost outlook of each item, but additional costs such as storage, shipping, installation, or unexpected labor do happen. Additionally, tariffs have fluctuated significantly and is at the originating vendor’s discretion. Freight pricing is almost never guaranteed until the day the item actually ships. Plan on your freight averaging anywhere from 10-20% of the total cost of your purchases.

Additionally, to facilitate our delivery to go as smoothly and quickly as possible, we ask that homeowners not be present during delivery and installation of your items. Allow us to give you the big reveal!

How are items delivered?

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