To assist you in making your decision about working with éLAN Creative, we have published this collection of FAQs. If you have additional questions not addressed below, please reach out to us at design@elancreative.co.
Why should I invest in hiring an interior designer?
This is perhaps the best question you can ask when making the decision to hire a designer! Hiring a designer can do three things: save you money, make you money, and preserve your money. You save money by avoiding costly mistakes, making the most of your time, and by being guided by an expert to make the best buying decisions. If you are working with us to stage your home to sell it, you could make money by decreasing the time it may take to sell your home and potentially increasing the sale price. Lastly, you will preserve your money by making design choices that are an investment in the value of your property.
I've heard working with a designer is expensive. Can I afford to work with you?
This answer is a resounding YES! We provide a customized experience for every client. We work with home and business owners on projects ranging from first time home- or business- owners on a modest budget to elite clientele in multi-million dollar homes. We firmly believe EVERYONE deserves a beautiful space, regardless of budget!
What about staying within my budget? Why should I share my budget with you?
The word ‘budget’ evokes a lot of emotion in most people. Our belief is that regardless of budget, everyone deserves good design. Whatever your budget, we respect it and guide you accordingly. Due to our experience in the design industry, we have knowledge of what general costs are in their direct relation to quality level, style, etc. It is important to be open about what you are comfortable investing in your project so that we can direct you to the appropriate choices and options to stay within it.
What is included in the design fees?
A portion of every project involves billing for design time, whether through purchasing time blocks or through a flat rate package that has a maximum number of design hours included. Clients are generally surprised at how much is accomplished within an hour of design time. This time is used for things such as: measuring, researching, drafting of tile designs, drapery designs, bedding, preparing space plans, reviewing blueprints for necessary changes before construction, sourcing products online and/or locally to narrow down selections, collaborating with contractors and/or the client, writing and verifying orders, tracking orders, managing installers, and much more! A report of how your design time is utilized is emailed to you bi-weekly or monthly, depending on the pace and size of your project. You can also request an update of your design “bank” at any time. The investment made in this time often is offset in great proportion by saving the client’s time, discounts on merchandise when possible, and avoidance of mistakes through the purchase and construction of costly things, not to mention the peace of mind attained.
What happens during our first consultation?
During the initial consultation, your designer gathers very detailed information about your project, style preferences, and specific needs or wants so they can provide you with exceptional results. For more detailed information, check out the explanation of the design process page.
How long will it take to complete the project?
This depends upon many factors including the size/scope of the project, contractor schedules, product availability, time you need to make decisions, the pace you prefer to proceed, etc. Since every project is different and we provide a customized approach every time, you will be made aware of the estimated time to complete your project each step of the way. Every effort is made to see that it is completed on schedule.
I’m not ready / able to do everything at once; can you still help me?
Definitely! Our goal is to understand the final outcome you desire and then help you create a “master plan.” We can break it down into stages that you are comfortable with. By doing things in this way you ensure that you won’t proceed with one aspect only to find you have not thought through to the final outcome. This will save you an immeasurable amount of frustration, time, and money.
I don't live near you; can you still help me?
Absolutely! Depending on the scope of your project, there are a variety of ways we can work regardless of where you are located. We have been serving a variety of clientele on a national level since founding éLAN Creative (originally known as Inspired Design by Julie). In addition to VIP packages that include traveling for on-site services, we offer e-design virtual packages. Thanks to modern technology, we offer video calls with you from anywhere in the world!
What if I don't know what I want/like?
We have some clients that know exactly what they want, some with a few preferences, and many who feel like they just need or want a change but have no idea where to start. The beauty of hiring an experienced design firm like éLAN Creative is that we can be of service to any of these categories. If you prefer to be very involved in the whole process, we will work closely with you to help determine your design aesthetic and complete the project. However, if you don’t have the time or desire to participate in every detail, we can provide a unique look for you without pulling you away from your schedule.
I have items I’ve already purchased or that are sentimental. Can you work them into the design?
Of course! This is your space and it should reflect you! We love to incorporate items that you have chosen, come from your travels, or have been handed down through your family.
My partner & I have different tastes; how can you help us?
Every individual has developed preferences and aversions throughout their life in regards to design selections. Part of our job is to take into consideration each of your likes, visions, and concerns. We use this information to assist you in blending your styles and coming up with beautiful solutions, and we have fun doing it!
What happens if I don’t like the design, or parts of the design, you come up with?
Another area that we may have a different approach than most designers is with this question. The purpose of our initial meetings and communications are to ascertain your style and come up with solutions that are usually “dead on,” according to our clients. We want you to be happy with your space so, if at any time during the process we suggest something you do not like, just let us know. There is always another option, and we will work to be sure you are satisfied.
What makes your firm different than everyone else out there?
Our approach to the design process and client service sets us apart from many other options. We take each client on as a special, thoughtful and customized experience. This is our “boutique” approach! We don’t replicate a pattern with every client; instead, we will listen to your needs and desires to ensure you get what you want.
