Frequently asked questions.

What areas do you cover in person?

I offer in person interior design services throughout the North East, however traveling expenses will be charged beyond a 30 mile radius of Whitley Bay.

Do you take on projects outside of the UK?

The world is a lot smaller place so don’t worry if you’re not based in the North east of England, I can offer remote interior design services to anywhere in the world. Meaning you can still come on a design journey with me and unravel what lies beneath your story.

At what stage of the process should I contact you?

The best way to get the most out of our design relationship is to engage right from the start. This ensures that we can refine your brief and make sure that the space you want to create meets all of your needs and works for you. Space planning is the key to quality, timeless design and getting it right from the start is worth the investment. If you would like to discuss your project feel free to contact me to set up a no obligation call to see if we’re a good fit.

If I hire you at the start of my project won’t it be more expensive?

Hiring me early on does not mean the process will be more expensive, as we still have the same steps to go through, if anything it helps to avoid costly errors and multiple changes. Engaging with me early on means that I can gain a better understanding of your project and build a better relationship with your architect or trades people. I’ll also be by your side to help you work through the practical, everyday living needs of your home, so that you are in control and better prepared for all of the decisions you need to make and together we can ensure the end result delivered exactly what you and your family need.

Can an Interior Designer save me money?

Most people automatically think that hiring an interior designer is expensive. That they will have to spend extra money to have someone do something they can do themselves. Nothing can be farther from the truth. Professional interior design can actually save you quite a bit of time and money that you did not expect.

Today, cost-conscious homeowners turn to professional interior designers to create the home of their dreams – for less money. What you pay in fees often comes out to far less than you would have spent on costly design mistakes

Hiring an interior designer before you start buying is a smarter move. After I listen attentively to your wants, likes, and dislikes, I can determine where your money can be best spent. Careful planning of the room can avoid costly mistakes.

Interior designers save you time, as you can spend hours, days, or even weeks searching online for that perfect vase or rug or end table. Or, you can let your me free up your time by researching what you want.

Hiring an interior designer means that someone else, with extensive knowledge of where to look, is doing the legwork. Designers know to check measurements, lead time, quality, pricing, and durability. Their knowledge translates into significant savings for the consumer.

We also have access to trade discounts and many interior designers will choose to share that discount with their clients meaning that, that designer furniture you thought was out of your price range meets your budget with the discount. To be transparent from the start I pass on 100% of my trade discounts to my clients. I charge a sourcing and procurement fee of 10% of the full retail price. Discounts vary between 10% and 30% meaning that you save money and re-coup the design fees.

Interior Designers know when to spend a little bit extra on quality, we know that quality craftsmanship stands the test of time. I will help you determine when and how to spend more to save in the long run.

There are pieces of furniture, art, etc. that are worth splurging on, and other areas where you are better off saving money. Will your room look better with new flooring or wallpaper? Should you spend more on window treatments or furniture for the biggest impact? These are questions that can be best answered by hiring an interior designer.

Finally, your life is ever-changing, and your home should reflect that fact. No, that does not mean going out and buying new furniture every few years. It is about adjusting your home to changes in your lifestyle.

For example, a family with young children will want to invest in furnishings that will grow and change as the children age. When you hire an interior designer, we will consider that in any remodel or design.

Can you work with my existing furniture?

Absolutely! I appreciate that not every project will begin as a blank canvas and with a fresh perspective, it’s amazing how we can take what you have already have and make it work to tell your story, it’s part of who you are.  Quite often the most stylish homes are filled with bits and pieces you have acquired over the years and that’s what makes your story so interesting and unique.

If you have any questions please take a look at my FAQ’s or feel free to contact me. Please also connect with me on Facebook and Instagram.