Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does an interior designer do?
An interior designer helps you create functional, beautiful, and personalized spaces. They consider layout, colors, lighting, furniture, and finishes to bring harmony and style to your home or business.
2. What is the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator?
An interior designer focuses on both the functionality and aesthetics of a space, often collaborating with architects and contractors. An interior decorator typically works with furnishings, accessories, and surface finishes to enhance the aesthetics of a space.
3. Do I need an interior designer for a small project?
Yes! Interior designers can add value to projects of any size, from a single-room refresh to full remodels. Even small projects benefit from professional guidance to avoid costly mistakes and create a cohesive look.
4. Do I need an interior designer, or can I do this myself?
Hiring a designer saves you time, reduces costly mistakes, ensures your space is functional as well as beautiful.. My services are primarily designed for people who want a curated plan without the stress of managing all the details themselves. I do work with clients who want flexibility in how they approach their project. DIY is not for everyone and I will be honest how and if, I feel it is a good fit for us.
5. What types of interior design services do you offer?
I provide residential in-home and virtual consultations, interior design and decorating services, residential feasibility studies, product specification or sourcing, and drawings for kitchens and bathrooms, remodels, and renovations. I also work on commercial interior design consulting for workspaces, tenant improvements, and furniture planning.
6. What is a residential feasibility study?
A feasibility study evaluates whether your ideas for a remodel are realistic based on things like layout, budget, and functionality. This service helps you plan ahead and gives you a roadmap before you commit to the project. For example, we can explore a “master plan” of a whole home remodel and determine appropriate phases that achieve your current goals and set the foundation for future changes.
7. How much does hiring an interior designer cost?
Fees vary depending on the scope of work, project size, and designer’s experience. Pricing structures may include flat fees, hourly rates, or a percentage of the project cost. Many designers offer consultations to provide a clear estimate.
8. What happens during an interior design consultation?
A consultation is an initial meeting to discuss your style, goals, budget, and timeline. The designer provides ideas, guidance, and next steps tailored to your project. Some clients stop at the consultation, while others move into further design services.
9. How long does an interior design project take?
Timelines depend on the scope of work. A room refresh may take a few weeks, while a full remodel or new build could take several months. Designers will provide an estimated timeline during the planning phase.
10. Can an interior designer work with my contractor or architect?
Yes. I often collaborate with architects, contractors, and builders to ensure every detail—from layout to finishes—is aligned with your vision and functional needs.
11. Do interior designers help with budgets?
Absolutely. A designer can help you prioritize your budget, recommend cost-effective solutions, and avoid expensive mistakes, ensuring you get the most value out of your investment.
12. What interior design styles do you specialize in?
Elea Interiors, LLC works across multiple styles such as modern, traditional, rustic, coastal, bohemian, or transitional. A good designer adapts to your preferences and creates a space unique to you. I enjoy mixing styles that combine character and nostalgia with the conveniences and comforts of modern and contemporary styles.
13. Can you design remotely or offer virtual interior design services?
Yes. I have been working virtually for decades and provide virtual consultations and other virtual services such as space planning, furniture layout, mood boards, and product recommendations you can implement at your own pace.
14. Do you source furniture and decor for clients?
Yes, I offer curated solutions of furniture, lighting, and other high impact furnishings for select, unique, and high-quality pieces that enhance the Interior architectural design I am already working on. I do not source appliances, accessories, or antiques, as I have found these to be quite personal. I do work with my clients to incorporate them effectively into their design and help guide them with their purchases of these items.
15. How do I prepare for working with an interior designer?
Gather inspiration photos, list your must-haves, define your budget, and be ready to share how you use your space. This helps the designer create a plan that reflects your lifestyle and goals.
Commercial Workspace Design
16. Do you provide commercial interior design services?
Yes, I consult on commercial workspaces, including office planning, tenant improvements, and furniture solutions. My focus is on creating functional, productive environments without the need for full architectural design. I often work as a consultant or liaison between stakeholders and vendors. To help guide the project.
17. What is included in your commercial consulting services?
Commercial services include space planning recommendations, occupancy planning, furniture audits (checking specifications against drawings), and sourcing commercial furniture solutions. These services can be provided fully remote.
18. Do you work with contractors, landlords, or facility managers?
Yes. I collaborate with your existing team to ensure the design aligns with building requirements, workflow needs, and budget constraints. I am a great resource for smaller businesses who may be doing a remodel or move and does not have anyone in house equipped to take on the extra and temporary load of coordinating details and acting as a liaison between trades.