Designer Referral Service of Florida Inc.

FAQ

Q: How does the Designer Referral Service of Florida work?

Our firm offers a complimentary interview and evaluation of your design project, then     provides introductions to 2 or 3 designers best suited to your needs. Clients have no
obligation to retain recommended designers and there is no charge for the initial meeting.

Q: Why should I hire an Interior Designer for my home?

A designer can save you money, because they have access to trade only sources, an ongoing relationship with custom fabricators, as well as the experience and knowledge to prevent costly mistakes.
A designer will simplify the process, by helping you make difficult decisions as well as organizing the design, ordering, fabrication, delivery, and installation of your project.
A designer will save you time, doing all the leg work and pre-planning for you.
A designer will enhance your home with a design that functions well and provides an aesthetically pleasing environment.
Well designed homes usually have a higher resale value and sell faster.

Q: Why should I hire an Interior Designer for my office?

A designer will manage and oversee all aspects of your project, allowing you to focus on your business.
A designer will save you money, because they have access to trade only sources,a relationship with custom fabricators, as well as the experience and knowledge to prevent costly mistakes.
A designer will save you time, doing all the leg work and pre-planning for you.
A designer will redefine the look of your office, creating an effective company identity.
A designer's knowledge of building codes will prevent legal complications due to lack of compliance.
A well designed office is an excellent marketing tool...recognized by your clients as a symbol of success.

Q: How do designers charge for their services?

Designers work with a variety of fee structures. As with other professions, their fees are based on variables such as the complexity of the project and time required to execute their duties. Designer work in one of the following methods, or a combinations of these methods to suit
a client’s particular needs:

Design fee/Flat fee The Designer identifies a specific amount to cover costs and expenses. One total fee applies to all services that the Designer will provide, ranging from conceptual development through layouts, specifications, project management, and final installation.

Hourly fee Compensation is based on actual time the Designer spends on a particular project or a specific service. Sometimes a retainer is deposited with the Designer and the hours are then charged against that sum.

Cost Plus A Designer purchases materials, furnishings, and services at their cost and the compensation is then computed as a percentage of the purchases.

   Retail The Designer sells the furnishings, furniture, and all other goods to the client at the retail or “list price” which includes the Designer’s commission on those purchases. Furniture stores may also include a Design plan in the retail price.

   Per Square Foot Architects and commercial Designers may charge their fees based on the size of the space to be designed.

  Retainer In addition to the fee structures outlined above, Designers usually require a retainer, deposit and /or a design fee before beginning a project. A retainer or deposit may be applied to the balance due at the termination of the project, while a design fee is payment for design services to be provided. The retainer, deposit or design fee is customarily due upon signing the contractual agreement in advance of the design services.

Q: What is the clients role in the design process and how l can be assured that the result will be a design that pleases me?

Be Prepared

Collect pictures from magazines to illustrate what you like and what you don’t like. Use photos of rooms and furniture to illustrate your ideas, as well as to develop a color scheme and preferences for particular styles, fabrics, patterns or materials. Remember, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Inventory furniture, accessories and art that you currently own and decide which pieces you would like to use in the new project, and what you are ready to discard. Think about the activities for the room, lighting and audio-visual special needs, your desire for open space, collections, or clutter. Most importantly, determine on a preliminary budget.

Communicate

Listen, talk, listen. The Designer will present a concept of the project and your input will be important. Don’t hesitate to express your desires, concerns about execution of the design or the proposed budget. Establish a time line to plan the design, get permits, complete construction, order, purchase and install finishes and furnishings. The process may take a few months or much longer. Your collaboration will be essential in creating a final design that meets your expectations. Clients and designers who communicate openly enjoy their working relationship and produce the best results.

Budget

Be frank about finances, as it will save time and time is money! Your designer will develop a realistic budget for your project based on today’s costs for construction, cabinetry, flooring, fabrics, furniture, etc. Sticking to it may be challenging, but your designer’s knowledge and experience will help to keep the project on track.

Letter of Agreement

Designers have different ways of working, as there are various methods of charging for their services. A letter of agreement is recommended to provide a clear understanding of how you will work with your designer. It should include: responsibilities of each party, fees you will be charged, how you will be charged, when fees and deposits are due, how you will be billed and special charges that may be incurred.

Getting the Design you want

The more information you can give to your Designer, the better. It’s all about you! Your preferences should be conveyed in both words and pictures. It’s a good idea to keep an ongoing project inspiration file. Remember, it’s the Designer’s job to reflect your desires in their design, turning your hopes and dreams into reality.

Please contact us with any other questions you may have
(561) 289-1028 srosen@drsflorida.com