Question 1

How long will it take?

Accepted Answer

That depends on a few things:

1. How big is the project, one room or a whole house/apartment?
2. Are there major changes required, eg cabinetry, painting, window and floor coverings?
3. In this Covid era we are struggling with supply issues, there are still significant delays on furniture and renovation materials.

*My trade suppliers are generally offer better lead times, service and white glove delivery which is a great advantage.

The length of the project could be a couple of weeks for a few items up to 4-5 months for big ticket items. I generally try and source products that are in stock or  least have a landing date which means they are on the water and 12-14 weeks away.

Question 2

Where am I based and do I work outside of Brisbane?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I am based in Brisbane, but have completed jobs on Sunshine coast as well.
 I can work Australia wide, obviously travel & accommodation fees will be applied.

Question 3

Can you include some of my existing furniture?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. I love homes with character and a mix of old and new can work well if done right.

I will be honest with you about whether it will fit into your new interior design or if I think it serves your lifestyle well.  Happy to help you re-use in another part of the house or in another home as well if I think it won't work.

Sometimes clients have an emotional connection to something that they want to keep, antiques, collections or artworks can all be catered for. Keep in mind that if they are key pieces they will be the starting point for your new style.

Question 4

How much will it cost?

Accepted Answer

I have 3 different pricing structures.

1. Site visit, initial consultation, designing fee
2. Sourcing product, managing project and other contractors fee
3. Installation and simply styling fee

Please contact me below via email to receive my fee schedule and a `how it works' sheet. Every designer works differently and has different levels of experience, all my projects include number one and two.

Generally speaking, my clients are time poor and are looking for someone to take care of all the small and large decisions, if my hourly rate is less than yours, than it makes sense to outsource to me.  Overall, my fee is around 9-15% of your overall budget as a guide, depending on the level of service required.

Question 5

Is there anything you won't do?

Accepted Answer

The Lifestyler focuses mainly on existing properties. That is, already mostly renovated houses or apartments.  I am happy to undertake small cosmetic renovations eg painting, cabinetry, flooring and the like. Then furnishing the property as well. We can also work with your existing builder if you have one.

We have in the past consulted on new apartments being built off the plan, if you need assistance in choosing finishes or making room changes...and then after the build furnishing the apartment for you as well. A long term relationship!

The Lifestyler is a nose to tail solution, covering everything from furniture, to white goods, sheets, towels, kitchenware, bathroom ware, artworks and everything in between to make it a walk in finished home.

Question 6

Do I have to do it all in one go, or can I go room by room?

Accepted Answer

You can definitely do room by room or a few rooms at a time.

The upside from doing multiple rooms at one time, is that there is a significant saving in freight costs when furniture comes together, something to keep in mind.

This is one of the benefits of using an interior designer, I have the ability to use my trade suppliers to secure stock, get better prices and group together deliveries to save on expensive freight.

Question 7

Do I have to be there to wait for deliveries?

Accepted Answer

Short answer is no. This is one of the most valued offerings by The Lifestyler.

Many clients have been happy to give me a key for the duration of the project, so I can take deliveries when you are not at home.

This means you will not be bothered with endless phone calls, delivery drivers and installations. What a timesaver!

FAQ

Any other questions about interior design or my other services, please reach out below via email