Q & A
Q: What should we expect in terms of fees?
A: We charge a transparent, project-based fee for our services, clearly outlined in your contract and budget. Please contact us for more details. Every project is unique.
Q: How important is communication on our end?
A: Clear, timely communication from our clients is essential to a successful project outcome. Your feedback, approvals, and responsiveness help keep schedules on track and decisions moving forward.
Q: What role does trust play in the process?
A: Trust and mutual understanding are foundational to our process. We ask for confidence in our expertise so we can advocate for your vision and guide the project thoughtfully.
Q: Can construction timelines change during the project?
A: Construction timelines and material availability can impact schedules. When conditions shift, we communicate proactively and provide updated expectations.
Q: What happens if we want to make changes after approvals?
A: Scope additions or design changes after approvals may result in additional fees and extended timelines.
Q: What if the process feels stressful or overwhelming?
A: We recognize that design and construction projects are a significant investment and can feel extensive and stressful at times. Our team is here for all of it, the planning, problem-solving, pivots, and celebrations along the way. You’re never navigating this alone.
Q: Why do you do this work?
A: Because a house can be lived in for years without ever feeling finished. We love helping our clients uncover what their home was always meant to be — beautiful, functional, and unmistakably theirs.
Q: Do you help with permits and approvals?
A: We work with the contractor, architect or engineer to ensure all details land as needed an support notes and adjustment with regard to proposed plans submitted to the city for approval.
Q: Where are you located and what areas do you serve?
A: Our office HQ is located in Alameda, CA. We work in Alameda, Oakland, Piedmont, Orinda, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, Danville and the entire East BAY AREA. We have been known to work in the adjoining South Bay, North Bay and venture out of state to Arizona, Washington and Nevada.
Q: What is your design aesthetic?
A: I am known to be incredibly eclectic. I find that most people have treasures, art, hand-me-downs and sentimental items spanning decades of style, genre and culture. I work hard to ensure those items find a perfect home within the new design, ensuring there is a balance and continuity throughout.
Q: Do we work on commercial projects?
A: We do! My background in commercial retail design — with roles at Tiffany & Co., Sephora, and Pottery Barn — shapes how I approach every commercial space: with the same attention to brand, flow, and detail that turns a store or office space into an experience.
Q: What's the difference between hiring a contractor vs. an interior designer? Why would I need one?
A: A contractor builds — an interior designer envisions. Contractors bring the physical work to life: framing, plumbing, electrical, installation. But they're not typically trained to think through how a space should look, feel, or function as a whole. That's where we come in. We handle the big-picture thinking — layout, materials, lighting, finishes, furniture, and flow — and translate your taste into a plan the contractor can execute. Just as importantly, we stay involved throughout the project, making sure every detail is landed exactly as designed, so the final result matches the vision from day one. Think of it this way: a contractor makes sure your house is built right. We make sure it's built for you — and that it turns out exactly as planned.