Services Provided
Every design project is unique and therefore several methods of billing are utilized.
- Full Service: Design services for full service projects that may include construction are quoted as a flat fee, payable in installments upon completion of certain phases of the project. The phases are detailed below. A retainer is required to begin this type of project. Depending on the size of your job, experienced, quality sub-contractors can be provided or with a larger project, a good general contractor may be recommended.
- Custom Work: With fabulous workrooms and the designer showrooms in Houston available for an unlimited supply of fabrics and trims, custom furnishings can be provided. Custom window treatments, bedding, and upholstery are quoted individually and require 75% deposit with order.
- Consulting: For limited types of design services, an hourly fee is used, with a three hour minimum. Services such as review of new construction plans, shopping for furniture and accessories, and work on projects not under a contract are billed this way. Hanging artwork, furniture arrangement, and accessorizing is also billed on an hourly basis.
- Concept Plan: Clients that only want help with the conceptual design of a space can opt for this service. This allows for the programming and schematic design phase described below with one minor revision. The cost of this service starts at $1000 depending on the size of your project, with half payable at the beginning of the job and the remainder at presentation.
Typical Phases of a Design Project
Programming: The gathering of information to do the job. The needs and desires of the client are determined for the project and site conditions are verified. This could entail inventory of existing furnishings or equipment, measuring an existing space, or photographing and documenting anything pertinent to the design of the project. A general budget is established.
Schematic Design: Conceptual design of space, to include drawings, general color schemes, samples, and pictures to suggest design ideas.
Design Development: Fine-tuning of approved schematic design so that it becomes fixed. Drawings, floor plans, elevations, and details as necessary are provided. Lighting design and selection of all furniture, fixtures, and finishes required are completed.
Construction Documents / Bidding: Preparation of drawings, specifications, and other documents to have the project constructed. Depending on the project, this can be a full set of construction drawings or a simple finish schedule to show location and types of finishes required. Preparation of furniture and furnishings purchase orders are provided as necessary. Estimates for the work required will be obtained from various contractors at this time.
Contract Administration: The installation of the project. Site visits are made to verify quality and progress of the job. Installation of all items is completed.