Hire the architect and interior designer simultaneously to create a collaborative team. Designers handle space planning and construction documents for interiors, so early involvement ensures cohesive work.  We don't work on projects unless we provide space planning services or input - interiors are our sepcialty.

The builder should be hired after substantial design progress, as they need detailed drawings to provide accurate pricing. Beware of builders who provide estimates or budgets without proper design direction or detailed plans—they're merely guessing. We recommend interviewing builders with your team to ensure compatibility.

For construction-related projects, we only take on full-home interior design projects or substantial renovation projects like kitchen-and-bath remodels with a minimum combined budget to balance service costs with overall expenses.

For decorating-only related projects, we require at least three spaces with a minimum combined budget. Our work prioritizes quality, sourcing from high-end vendors rather than mass-market retailers, and using vintage pieces to ensure curated spaces.  We prefer projects that are anything but basic—embracing color, pattern, and creating one-of-a-kind spaces.

If you want to know whether you reach our minimum, set up a time to chat with us about pricing, which we intentionally don't share online—every project is unique, influencing the hourly rate and duration of services.

While Sarah is not a registered architect, our team provides comprehensive interior design services, including space planning and providing construction documents for many single-family projects.  Since many of our projects are partial home renovations focused on kitchen and bath design, we can often handle these projects without the need for a separate architect—avoiding redundant services. Of course, for structural needs beyond our scope, we recommend hiring an engineer. Contact us to find out what lies within our professional expertise - every project is different. 

Many older homes in New England are protected by local historic committees, whose mission is to preserve the original look and feel of these special properties. These committees often restrict homeowners from renovating outside the original footprint, requiring clever space planning—which happens to be our specialty. If you're working on your historic home, we'd love to connect.  Inquire here. 

We facilitate builder selection to ensure a strong designer-builder partnership. A skilled builder reduces design time and costs. Less experienced builders may require additional guidance, leading to higher design expenses. We help match builders to your project’s complexity and design vision.

Furthermore, our designs are distinctive and intentionally avoid the ordinary, requiring a builder with a creative eye and the expertise to execute complex details. We prioritize working with skilled, high-caliber professionals who can meet the demands of our projects.

For the design phase, we bill hourly. Our hourly rate reflects our education—including undergraduate studies in math and art, as well as graduate studies in interior design. It also represents over 15 years of professional experience in commercial design, working with commercial builders, residential builders, and freelancing for residential firms as we transitioned our career. Lower rates offered by others often indicate less education, skill, or professional experience. Our rate is non-negotiable.

Occasionally we utilize a flat fee tailored to the project scope. Additional fees may apply for changes after design approval. We do not design and step away. Managing our projects through execution is essential to ensure the quality and vision are upheld.

For construction execution, we bill hourly fees based on the project duration, complexity, and builder quality. Extended schedules that are a result of a builder will incur additional fees. For decorating execution, the service fee calculated as a percentage of overall budget.  As interior designers in Boston, we primarily work in Massachusetts but enjoy traveling for select projects; travel fees may apply.  Inquire here to receive more detailed information on billing.

Our interior design services in Boston are tailored to meet a variety of needs, from full-home transformations to focused renovations and expert decorating projects.

1. Full-Home Interior Design: Comprehensive design for new builds or large renovations, covering all interiors and decor.  Read more here. 
2. Kitchen & Bath Design: Focused renovations with detailed plans and construction management.  This also includes decorating; read more here. 
3. Decorating Projects: Styling and furnishing homes or apartments, including budget management and sourcing (minimal construction).  Read more here. 

Timelines vary by scope. For construction-related projects, full-home renovations typically take 2–3 years, while partial-home or decorating projects are completed within 6–12 months. The duration of a project is often dictated by two things: first, how quickly clients can meet with the interiors team, make timely decisions, and avoid backtracking on milestone approvals; second, the quality and efficiency of your builder.

For decorating-related projects, lead times for custom furniture and lighting range from 8–12 weeks, with some custom rugs and light fixtures requiring up to 30 weeks for production. It’s important to note that these items and spaces also require time for design, sourcing, and ordering, which should be factored into the overall timeline.

Clients provide valuable input and guidance through inspiration images, helping set the direction for the project. From there, we take the lead, managing all details and execution with expertise. Like other top interior designers in Boston, we work best when trusted to handle the process without micromanagement. Excessive client input can increase hours, delay progress, and incur additional design fees. Let us do what we do best—we love designing for you.

Yes, we design custom furniture, millwork, and cabinetry, such as bunk beds, kitchen cabinets, and built-ins, tailored to your space and style. We have a network of skilled craftsmen who create cabinetry, wood and metal furniture, upholstery, window treatments, and more—all integral members of our team as we bring your home together.

Yes, virtual consultations are available, offering tailored advice on space planning, materials, and decor for clients outside our area.  Inquire here. 

Yes, we provide one-day consultations to address specific design needs, such as furniture placement, color selection, or material sourcing.  Inquire here. 

The consultation involves discussing your project goals, budget, and style preferences. We gather insights, outline our process, and assess the project’s feasibility to ensure a clear path forward.

Yes, we emphasize sustainability by sourcing quality materials, collaborating with local craftsmen, and focusing on timeless designs that outlast fast trends. Where possible, we prioritize natural materials or source from eco-friendly vendors, carefully balancing these choices with your budget. By designing with quality in mind, your home will remain beautiful and functional for the next 20 years or more—sustainable by not requiring constant updates.