Q: Why would I use an interior decorator over an interior designer?
A: Not every home update requires the HGTV treatment. Not every home needs three walls knocked out, a bathroom built out of a bedroom, and a reconfiguration of the kitchen’s footprint. Some homes have great layouts already, the owners are happy with it, it just needs a facelift and a breath of life again. That’s when you would want to use a home decorator over an interior designer. If you have your heart set on getting rid of a wall to open up your home I can help you find a good contractor to do the job before I start my part of the project.
Typically, an interior designer can cost you anywhere between $60-$100/hr and that doesn’t include material costs (which is marked up) and labor costs. That’s purely an hourly rate for their creative design, which is merited. They had to go through a lot of tough schooling to become a designer. (I would know because I studied interior design for two years at Purdue University. It was a lot of learning about plumbing, electrical placement, load bearing walls, and so forth, none of the fun that comes with furnishings.) An interior decorator will cost you between $15-40/hr depending on experience.
Q: What is Revivify’s process like?
A: First, we start with an in-home consultation, which is free of charge. Here, I like to talk and get to know you and your family; figure out what you like in home design, what you don’t like, what is necessary in your home to function, what your passions are, and so forth. Each project I do is uniquely tailored to my client’s wants, needs, but I also like to incorporate their personality and passions in there as well. I also like to flip through my example book to get a feel for the type of design that speaks to you, whether that’s farmhouse or mid-century modern. This consultation will typically take an hour. You can either sign a contract there or take some time to think about it. If you do decide to enlist my services, then I will take measurements of the space I’ll be redoing so I can create a 2D and 3D rendering of the planned updates and I will start my search to give you a more accurate estimate of what it will cost to bring it to life. This process will take me a week to two weeks depending on the how extensive the project is. We will have another meeting where we go over the design and you either approve it or request changes . If you approve the design and the estimate, that is when payment will be due in full. This will be your agreed upon budget amount. Of course, since we are also in the business of saving you money, anything left over will be returned to you upon completion. As soon as I have the money I can start ordering and acquiring the furnishings and materials needed to make your home spectacular. If it’s a big project it will take longer and will have to be done in stages. If it is a one room job we will most likely be able to complete the decorating in a day or two once all the materials come in. And voila! Your home comes to life again and is tailor-made to work for you and your family while being a dreamy space to live in.
Q: Why do I have to pay upfront?
A: Revivify is a startup in-home company. We ask for the money upfront to cover the cost of materials, furnishings, and labor so we can get the job done efficiently and quickly. Plus, when you get that bit of money back at the end it’s my favorite part because it’s like “here’s your magnificent completely redone home and oh yeah, a little bonus check as well!” If you do not have the money saved right now, don’t worry. I’ve acquired a list of banks with great rates that give out small loans for home renovations. There are options!
Q: What qualifications does an interior decorator need?
A: Technically, nothing. There is no degree necessary and no licensure required either. It really is a self-taught profession that takes time and dedication to learn about up-to-date home trends. I have been studying home interiors for 15 years now and yes, I love HGTV (Home Town is my favorite followed closely by Fixer Upper). I subscribe to multiple resources in the industry to make sure I always know what is in and what is out when it comes to beauty and function in a home. But mostly, home design is all about getting to know the people living there, listening to what is important to them, and incorporating the beauty into that.
Q: How much is this going to cost me?
A: The final price tag on your home’s update is going to be based mostly on your taste and budget. I am a firm believer in being transparent and making decisions as easy as possible for my clients. Nothing gets me frustrated quicker than when I’m trying to price something out online roughly and the website has no prices to be found. Sometimes I don’t want to call in and have an entire conversation and be pressured into making a decision right away. Sometimes I like to browse becauseI know if something is in my price range or not. That’s why I make it a point to list my hourly rate and commission up front. I charge $18/hour and a 15% markup on all purchased materials and furnishings. The markup is customary for all decorators and designers. My hourly rate is a wonderful bargain I hope many will take advantage of now. I chose that amount because Revivify is a startup service. As the years go by and more experience is gained, the hourly rate will increase.
