Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How much do House Proud design services cost?

Answer: $85.00 an hour, which includes travel time (the maximum charged for travel on any day is one hour), shopping, planning, consulting by phone, etc.

Question: Is there a minimum number of hours I have to use?

Answer: Absolutely not. During the last 12 years, I have consulted with many clients who had done a lot of the leg work before meeting with me, narrowing choices for paint / rugs / furniture etc. Two hours of time was more than sufficient for me to review the options, discuss them with the clients, and help them make the optimum choices. On the other hand, many clients want me to be in on the entire process, and those clients might use 20 hours or more of time. It is an individualized choice, always the clients, about how much time they use.

Question: Is there a minimum budget for projects?

Answer: Again, no. Using & transforming what a client already has, I've been able to "do" an entire townhouse for under $10,000.00 (Yes, right, for 6 rooms!). Over the years, clients' budgets have varied from $500.00 to $200.000.00. One client found a great (new) modular couch perfect for an entertainment room on the internet for $250.00. Another ordered a custom-designed, silk chaise lounge for $3,500.00. Both were pleased with their particular treasure!

Question: How can I use my decorator's time efficiently?

Answer: Preparation. Before the initial consult, know how much you have to spend, what room or rooms are priorities. I encourage clients to look at current (and vintage) "shelter" magazines - my favorites are Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Domino, Metropolitan Home - and use tabs to mark what appeals to them. In a few minutes of reviewing these with clients, I can get a pretty accurate picture of clients' likes and dislikes.

Question: Does my project have to be completed in a certain time-frame?

Answer: Not at all! I have may clients who work with me from room to room on an entire house. We may work for three months on the family room, take a break, and come back 6 months later to take up the kitchen. Again, the client sets the pace.