Frequently Asked Questions

Our design process is collaborative and intentional, typically spanning several phases: Discovery (understanding your vision, lifestyle, and needs), Concept Development (presenting mood boards, color palettes, and spatial concepts), Design Development (refining selections and creating detailed plans), Implementation (procurement, installation, and final styling). Each phase builds upon the last, ensuring your space reflects your unique story while maintaining our signature refined aesthetic.

Your involvement is essential to creating a space that truly feels like home. We present curated options at each decision point, explaining the reasoning behind our recommendations while remaining open to your feedback. Some clients prefer to make final selections from our curated presentations, while others want deeper collaboration at every step. We adapt our process to your preferred level of engagement, ensuring you feel confident and excited about every choice.

Absolutely. We believe the most meaningful spaces blend cherished existing pieces with carefully selected new elements. During our initial consultation, we'll assess which items can be incorporated into the new design—whether through reupholstering, refinishing, or strategic placement. This approach not only honors your history but often creates the most interesting, layered interiors that feel collected rather than purchased.

Project timelines vary based on scope and complexity. A single-room refresh might take 6-8 weeks, while a whole-home transformation typically spans 3-6 months from concept to completion. Commercial projects often require 4-8 months depending on square footage and permitting requirements. We'll provide a detailed timeline during our proposal phase, including key milestones and decision points, so you know exactly what to expect.

Several factors influence project duration: custom furniture lead times (often 8-16 weeks), contractor availability for any construction work, decision-making speed, and shipping delays for specialty items. We build realistic timelines that account for these variables and maintain clear communication throughout, so you're never left wondering about progress. Rush projects are possible for an additional fee, though we always recommend allowing adequate time for the best results.

Yes, we regularly work toward specific deadlines—whether it's a holiday gathering, home sale, or business opening. We'll assess your timeline during our initial consultation and recommend the appropriate scope and sourcing strategy. For tight deadlines, we may focus on ready-to-ship pieces, local artisans, or phased implementation to ensure the most critical elements are complete for your target date.

We offer several fee structures depending on project scope: Flat Fee for well-defined projects with clear deliverables; Hourly Rate for consultation sessions or projects with evolving scope; Cost Plus for full-service projects where we manage procurement. During our initial consultation, we'll recommend the structure that best serves your project and provide a detailed proposal outlining exactly what's included.

Design fees typically range from $5,000-$25,000+ depending on project scope, with furniture and materials being additional. A single-room refresh might start around $15,000-$30,000 total investment (design + furnishings), while whole-home projects often range $75,000-$250,000+. We work with clients to establish realistic budgets early in the process and provide transparent pricing at every stage. Quality, craftsmanship, and longevity guide our recommendations rather than arbitrary spending.

Yes, we structure payments in phases aligned with project milestones—typically a retainer to begin, followed by payments at design approval and before procurement. For larger projects, we can arrange extended payment schedules. We also accept credit cards for added flexibility. Our goal is to make the financial aspect as smooth as the creative process.

Our initial consultation is a conversation about your space, lifestyle, and vision. We'll tour your home or review your plans, discuss what isn't working and what you hope to achieve, and explore your aesthetic preferences through inspiration images. We'll also cover practical details like timeline, budget parameters, and project scope. By the end, you'll have clarity on next steps and receive a custom proposal outlining our recommended approach if we feel we're a good fit.

Our Exclusive Design Sessions are intensive 2-3 hour consultations perfect for clients who want professional guidance but prefer to implement at their own pace. During the session, we address specific design challenges, provide color and material recommendations, create space plans, and develop a detailed action plan you can execute independently. You'll receive a comprehensive design document with all recommendations, sources, and next steps. It's professional expertise packaged for the self-directed homeowner.

Come with an open mind and any inspiration you've collected—Pinterest boards, magazine tear sheets, or photos of spaces you love. Think about how you use the space currently and how you'd like to use it differently. If you have existing floor plans, measurements, or photos of the space, those are helpful too. Most importantly, come ready to discuss your budget range honestly; this allows us to recommend appropriate solutions from the start rather than designing beyond your comfort zone.

Yes, we regularly collaborate with trusted contractors, architects, and tradespeople throughout the Greater Des Moines area. We can recommend professionals from our network or work with your preferred team. Our role includes creating detailed specifications for contractors, conducting site visits during construction, and ensuring the finished details align with the design vision. This coordination is especially valuable for renovation projects where design intent must translate accurately through construction.

We're based in the Greater Des Moines metro area and primarily serve Clive, Johnston, Urbandale, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Adel, Ankeny, and surrounding communities. For select projects, we're available for travel throughout Iowa and beyond. Virtual design services are also available for clients outside our immediate area, providing the same curated design direction through digital collaboration.

Simply reach out through our contact form or call us directly. We'll schedule a brief phone call to discuss your project and determine if we're the right fit. If so, we'll arrange an in-person consultation at your space. There's no obligation—just an opportunity to explore how we might transform your environment into something extraordinary. We look forward to hearing your story.