FAQ's
Interior Design Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
If you’re considering working with an interior designer, it’s natural to have questions about the design process, timelines, budgets, and what to expect when transforming your home. At Sarah Elizabeth Design, we believe that informed clients make the best design partners. Our team specializes in creating beautifully curated, functional interiors while guiding clients through every stage of the project—from initial space planning and concept development to final installation.
To help you better understand how professional interior design works and what it’s like to collaborate with our studio, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about hiring an interior designer, planning renovations, and designing a home that truly reflects your lifestyle. If you have additional questions, please contact us.
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We primarily specialize in residential design projects, working closely with homeowners to create spaces that feel both functional and deeply personal. From single-room transformations to full-home designs, our focus is always on thoughtful, cohesive environments that reflect each client’s lifestyle.
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Absolutely. Over the years, we’ve built strong, longstanding relationships with a network of trusted professionals, including contractors, architects, painters, art installers, and more. We’re happy to connect you with the right people for your project and help ensure a smooth, collaborative process from start to finish.
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As a general guideline, designing a room from the ground up, meaning flooring or rugs, furniture, lighting, wall treatments, and paint selections, typically takes around 20 hours of design time. Projects that include custom pieces, millwork (such as built-in cabinetry or bookcases), or more complex elements will require additional time. Overall timelines can vary depending on the scope, level of customization, and installation schedules.
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Item descriptionWe offer a wide range of services tailored to meet each client’s needs. These include full-service interior design, space planning, furniture and material selection, custom design solutions, styling, and project coordination. Whether you’re looking for a complete home transformation or guidance on refining a single space, we can support you at any stage of the process.
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Our process begins with an initial consultation where we get to know you, your space, and your goals. From there, we develop a tailored design plan that includes layouts, material selections, and overall vision. Once the design is approved, we move into sourcing, ordering, and coordinating with any necessary vendors or contractors. Throughout the process, we stay in close communication, ensuring that everything comes together seamlessly and aligns with your expectations.
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We work on an hourly basis, which we’ve found to be the most transparent and effective approach. After our introductory call, we estimate the number of hours required based on the scope of your project. Clients receive a detailed monthly invoice outlining the work completed (similar to how legal or consulting services are billed) so you always have a clear understanding of where time is being spent.
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An interior designer typically has formal training and is involved in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of a space, including layout, spatial planning, and sometimes construction-related elements. An interior decorator, on the other hand, focuses primarily on the visual aspects—such as furniture, color palettes, and styling—without making structural changes. We operate within the full scope of interior design, allowing us to approach each project holistically.
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With over 16 years of experience in the industry, we bring a deep understanding of design, project management, and client collaboration. Our longevity reflects our commitment to quality, attention to detail, and creating spaces that truly stand the test of time.