YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry. We’ve rounded up our most frequently asked questions below:
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?
Arter Design Co. is a full-service interior design firm in Houston, Texas. We can design any space in your home, including kitchens and bathrooms. Whether it is one space or the whole home, we can design it. We do prefer to work in the space as a whole (as opposed to piecing it together); however, sometimes there are exceptions! Please reach out to us for more information.
HOW DO I BEGIN A PROJECT WITH YOU?
Simply contact our office to set up an initial phone consultation. This consultation is pressure-free and doesn’t cost a thing (except your time). During this meeting, we will discuss your designs, wants and needs, budget, and overall project.
HOW LONG DO PROJECTS TAKE?
This all depends on the project size and scope of work. Projects can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months (or more) to complete. We pride ourselves on moving as quickly and efficiently as possible on each project; however, in order to ensure every detail is executed correctly, it is important not to rush the design process. Please contact us so we can learn more about your project and provide you with a more accurate time frame based on your particular needs.
HOW DOES THE PROCESS WORK?
Every project is a little different, so, unfortunately, there is no easy answer here. We always start with a discovery call to determine if we are a good fit. If we are, we will schedule a 1-hour in-person consultation in which we walk the space and discuss details. (Note: if it’s new construction, we can meet at your existing home or at another location, like Starbucks.) Once the initial appointment and contracts are signed, we begin the design process. This usually includes preliminary designs, revisions, secondary designs, revisions, product/material review (if any), ordering of product, and then, finally, installation.
CAN YOU DESIGN SOMETHING IN MY STYLE?
You bet! Part of the design process is dedicating a substantial amount of time to learning about your style and honing in on what you are drawn to when it comes to interior spaces. By the time we start on a project, we have a clear view of what you are looking for and will make recommendations based on your vision. Every client and project is different, but we have the skills and expertise to turn your dreams into reality! (It’s honestly a pretty magical experience, and, just to warn you, you might get hooked.)
IS THIS PROCESS EXPENSIVE?
We completely understand where this question is coming from, but you have to think of this process as an investment. It takes several pieces to complete a space, as well as an industry expert to curate, organize, and install your one-of-a-kind design. By working with a professional designer, you will save a significant amount of time and money in the long run. Instead of buying random pieces here and there, or getting overwhelmed by measurements and placement, you’ll have an entire room (or more) DONE that can be enjoyed for years and years to come. Plus, we work with all kinds of budgets, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
DOES ARTER DESIGN CO. HAVE A FURNITURE MINIMUM?
No. We do not have a furniture minimum at this time. (One point, you.)
WHERE DO I SHOP?
We get it. Shopping is the best. But, we actually prefer it if you leave the shopping to us. We use a wide variety of to-the-trade showrooms, antique & vintage showrooms, local showrooms, and retail sources to complete a space. < < THIS is what gives our projects such a warm and collected feel. It’s all about the mix! If furniture needs to be tested out prior to purchasing, that can be done if the product is available locally. However, most of our clients don’t see the product until it shows up on installation day. Fabrics, wallpaper, furniture, and accessories are usually left to us so we can hand select the best products for you and your job.
WE HAVE KIDS AND PETS. ARE YOU WILLING TO DESIGN AROUND THE CHAOS?
We understand children and pets are central to your lives because they certainly are in ours! It’s your home and it should suit your lifestyle, so the answer to this is a resounding YES.
HOW DOES SHIPPING, DELIVERY, AND INSTALLATION WORK?
If you purchase a product(s) through us, shipping and delivery fees will be included in the price of the product. If items are purchased through a to-the-trade showroom, they will be delivered to a local warehouse until they are ready for installation. Installation fees are usually billed separately, but an estimate can be provided ahead of time. Just ask!
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SHIPPING AND DELIVERY?
“Shipping” (or freight) refers to the charges that incur when a product travels from the manufacturer to a local warehouse or residence. “Delivery” refers to the charges that are incurred when a delivery team brings any items delivered to a location, such as a warehouse, or are purchased at a local showroom to your residence and installs it. Most retailers refer to this as a “white glove” service. Most to-the-trade products will not deliver to a residence and have to be delivered to a warehouse for storage and then delivery.
DO YOU OFFER E-DESIGN SERVICES?
Yes…and no. We offer something very similar to E-Design. It’s what we like to call Hybrid Design, which is a service that is somewhere between full-service design and e-design. We believe that in order to achieve the best end result, there needs to be some level of in-person interaction, such as Arter Design Co. measuring each space and assisting with installation. Please contact us to see if our Hybrid Design is a good fit for you!
DO YOU MARK UP YOUR PRODUCT?
Marking up products is a very common practice for interior design firms. It is how we make our living. If you purchase a product from us, outside of retail sources, the product will have our designer mark up included, but will still be less than MSRP. We ask that our clients not shop around. If you ever have a concern or find a product for less online, we always encourage you to come to us first before purchasing the product.
CAN YOU GET ME A DISCOUNT AT RETAIL STORES LIKE TARGET, POTTERY BRAN, CRATE & BARREL, ETC.?
The short answer here is no. (Sorry!) There are many retail stores we will not purchase from on your behalf, but rather send you the link and information for you to purchase on your own (think: Target, World Market, or any retail store that does not provide a discount to designers). Please note that any retail discounts given to us will not be passed onto you because the difference is what covers the cost of our time to find, specify and order the product for you. Think of it this way: if you hired us to design a space for you, why not sit back, relax, and let us take care of everything?
If you have further questions, please give us a call at 832.334.2257 or fill out our contact form and someone will reach out to you soon!