FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
We offer 2 types of interior design fees... 1. Hourly consultation fee of $125/hr for large projects and consulting 2. Flat fee interior design fee for smaller projects where we can determine a specific list of what the client needs.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Do you really need an interior designer? You may know what you want, but arent quite sure where to begin. A professional interior designer will guide you through the process with a well thought out plan to help you avoid costly mistakes such as furniture that is too large, colors that are not working and contractors who dont do quality work. An interior designer will introduce you to new ideas and solutions for your home. Our Goal Our goal is to help you avoid common pitfalls and costly mistakes. Our professional interior designers will assist you throughout the design process so that you feel comfortable with your decisions. We will work closely with you to make sure your home is not only beautiful, but practical and functional. By working with an interior design professional, you are assured that your finished project will reflect your personal style and needs. How does the interior design and remodeling process work? Christopher James Interiors has a step by step program to properly turn your house into a home. They are as follows: Initial Consultation A complimentary meeting is held at your home to see the space and talk about your thoughts. This process allows ideas to be formulated. It includes reviewing an idea book that illustrates a variety of design styles and color schemes. We analyze the results to determine your specific style we want your home to be a reflection of you and your personality and mostly we want you to be surrounded by colors and furnishings that make you feel good. Design and Proposal Fees Based on the initial consultation, we prepare a detailed proposal that outlines the scope of services to be performed. Depending on the scope of your job, we have two types of fees. A one time design fee (flat fee) or an hourly fee. A retainer is requested before proceeding with your project. More detailed questions regarding your needs, utilization of space and budget are also discussed. Detailed Measurements After the proposal is accepted, a follow-up consultation in your home takes place for detailed measurements and evaluation of existing conditions and furnishings. If you have blueprints for your home we will ask for them at this time. Space Planning A two-dimensional space plan is proposed and discussed to address your needs. We explore the function of the space and coordinate it with the other areas for the best use within your home. Interior Design Concept Presentation Based on prior meetings, a preliminary conceptual design scheme is presented. Various interior design elements are depicted with photos, sketches, magazine shots and samples of finishes, such as flooring, countertops, cabinetry, wall and window treatments, lighting and hardware to help you visualize our design plan. Once the concept has been accepted and approved, several meetings may take place in showrooms or in your home to view additional samples. Specific design details are discussed in greater depth during this phase. Budget/Estimate A preliminary budget is prepared based on the materials and design ideas proposed during the concept presentation. The budget is evaluated and analyzed with you at this time. Once items are agreed upon by you, purchase orders are created and placed with manufacturers on your behalf. Follow up on orders include: tracking and lead times, deliveries and coordination of contractors. Project Management Contractors are recommended based on the project. The contractor will provide us with a negotiated bid based on current market values and a remodeling project timetable evaluated by Christopher James Interiors. Pre and post construction meetings and onsite visits during construction are conducted, ensuring the fulfillment of design intent and maintenance of quality levels. Installation Oversight of actual furniture placement and installations are overseen ensuring proper locations of pieces. We leave to allow you to enjoy your beautiful, newly designed home! Enjoy!
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Orange County interior designer Chris Givan attended New York School of Interior Design. The firm has ASID certified interior designers that specialize in floor planning and CAD for project visualization.