FAQS
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Who will be my main point of contact?
If Zimmerman Interiors is managing your new build, renovation or styling project, Katie will be your main point of contact throughout the process. You can expect to receive a project update at least once a week so that you are always aware of the status of your project. Some phases of the process may be slower but we still want to make sure you have an updated status and know what to expect.
During the remodeling process what will I have to do?
Depending on the scope of work, it may be necessary for you and your family to move out of your home. We ask that you stay clear of areas where the work is being performed for safety and efficiency reasons. We communicate with tradespeople and manage the entire construction phase while providing you with updates and progress reports.
If I already have a contractor, can you work with them?
Absolutely! We can work with your own contractor or we can contract the work for you. However, we cannot be liable for work performed by a contractor hired by you.
Is it possible for you to oversee the entire project from its initiation to its completion?
Absolutely! In fact, we strongly prefer taking full responsibility for managing the entire project from start to finish. Based on our experience, we have found that having a single party in charge of the project ensures a higher likelihood of meeting deadlines, staying within budget, and preserving the original design vision throughout the entire process.
What is the benefit of having an interior designer who can project manage the construction phase?
Having an interior designer who can project manage the construction phase offers several significant benefits:
Seamless coordination: When an interior designer takes on project management responsibilities, they can effectively integrate design concepts with construction requirements. This ensures a seamless coordination between the aesthetic vision and the practical execution of the project, resulting in a harmonious end result.
Expert trade selection: An interior designer who manages the construction phase can handpick the best professionals for each trade involved in the project, such as cabinetry, flooring, and wallpaper. This ensures that the right expertise is brought in at the right time, leading to high-quality workmanship and superior outcomes.
Efficient scheduling: By taking charge of scheduling tradespeople, the interior designer streamlines the construction process. They can coordinate timelines and tasks, avoiding delays and ensuring smooth progress throughout the project. This saves you time and effort in managing multiple contractors and trades.
Single point of contact: With an interior designer managing the project, you don't need to communicate separately with each tradesperson. Instead, you have a single point of contact who handles all aspects of the construction phase. This simplifies communication, reduces potential confusion, and allows for quicker resolution of any issues that may arise.
Design intent preservation: The interior designer, being intimately familiar with the design vision, can ensure that the intended aesthetic and functional goals are maintained throughout the construction process. They can provide guidance to tradespeople, oversee the implementation, and make any necessary adjustments to guarantee that the end result aligns with your original vision.
Overall, having an interior designer who can project manage the construction phase brings expertise, efficiency, and continuity to your project. It helps minimize potential challenges, ensures a smoother execution, and enhances the chances of achieving a successful outcome that surpasses your expectations.
How do I get started?
The first step in our proven process is the Discovery Phase where we want to get to know each other and understand your project. This give yo the opportunity to ask questions pertaining to the process. To get an in- depth view of our Discovery Process click here.
What is the design process?
Depending on your project, after the Discovery phase our team takes the information from your consultation, immerses you with our onboarding process and moves into the design concept phase. Our team of tradesmen arrive at your house to begin the bid process and within 6-8 weeks we'll have the design concept ready to present.
*Keep in mind that Full service design includes all six phases but may projects end at stage 3 if you plan to do the rest yourself.
The design process can be summarized into six phases:
Phase 1: Discovery - In this phase, we get to know each other and gather essential information about your project. It includes a complimentary discovery call, an online project questionnaire, a paid 2 hour initial in-home consultation, measurements and before photos of the space, floor plans (if available), an investment guide, and a design package proposal.
Phase 2: Onboarding - Once you decide to proceed, this phase involves the purchasing of the design package through MyDoma Studio, signing the contract agreement and scope of services, reviewing the welcome packet, and watching a studio video tutorial that explains the design process and sets expectations.
Phase 3: Concept Design - This phase focuses on creating the vision for your project. It includes a project kick-off trade day, an ideation meeting, a project vision board, samples of materials and finishes, and the initial design plan.
Phase 4: Execution - In this phase, the final design plan is developed. It includes a design presentation, 3D visualizations, space layout, color palette, furniture selection, and styling. Final product approvals and a styling plan are also part of this phase.
Phase 5: Procurement - This phase involves ordering and project management. All products are purchased through Zimmerman Interiors or selected partners and trades as discussed. Orders are placed, delivery is scheduled, and installation coordination and management are handled.
Phase 6: Completion - The final phase includes the big reveal day, a photo session, a project review, and project closure.
Each phase plays a crucial role in the overall design process, ensuring a smooth and successful journey from initial discovery to the final reveal of your project.
How long will the design process take?
The duration of the design process can vary depending on the nature and scale of the project. Here's a general timeline:
Discovery Phase: After the initial consultation, our team swiftly moves into the design concept phase. Within the first week or two, our tradesmen visit your location to begin the bidding process. This phase typically takes 6-8 weeks to finalize the design concept.
Construction Phase: The duration of the construction phase varies based on the project type:
New construction projects and large renovations: These projects typically span 1-3 years, taking into account the project scope and the permitting process specific to your city.
Smaller renovations (e.g., single room remodels): These projects can be completed in a shorter timeframe, typically ranging from 2-8 months.
It's important to note that while there are some factors that can influence the timeline, such as permit approvals or product availability, our team is dedicated to working efficiently and delivering results within the projected timeframes. However, every project is unique, and we strive to balance speed with the highest level of quality and attention to detail.
Can I break up my design into phases?
Yes, you have the flexibility to break up your design project into phases if that works best for you. We understand that different clients have unique preferences and circumstances, and we are here to accommodate your needs. Whether you prefer to tackle the entire project at once or work in phases, we have the expertise to guide you through the process.
When breaking up the project into phases, we will outline the specific scope of work for each phase in our agreement. It's important to note that if there are changes or additions to the scope of work during the project, it may affect the timelines for completion. We will do our best to accommodate changes, but it's crucial to be aware that it could impact scheduling and potentially incur additional fees.
In cases where a project is left unfinished for more than six months, a fee may be charged to restart the project. This is because resuming an unfinished project after a significant time gap requires additional coordination and adjustments to ensure a smooth continuation.
Our goal is to provide you with a personalized and successful design experience, and we will work closely with you to determine the best approach for your project, whether it involves completing it in one phase or breaking it up into multiple stages.
What is Airbnb design?
Airbnb design is the process of creating a space that is optimized for short-term rental guests. This includes selecting the right furniture and decor to create a welcoming atmosphere, as well as optimizing the layout and functionality of the space to make it easy and comfortable for guests to stay in.
Why is good design important for Airbnb renters?
Good design is important for Airbnb rentals because it can help attract more guests, increase bookings and command higher prices. You will make more money on your investment property! When a space is well-designed, it creates a positive guest experience that can lead to higher satisfaction rates, positive reviews and repeat bookings.
How much does Airbnb design cost?
The cost of Airbnb design can vary depending on the scope of the project, specific services required and how much time you wan to put into the design. We offer a range of design packages to fit a variety of investment levels, and we can work with you to create a custom design plan that meets your needs and budge.
How long does the process take?
The timeline for your Airbnb design can vary depending on the scope of the project and the specific services required. In general, the design process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the project. We understand the importance of efficiency and speed to your bottom line.
Do you work with property managers and real estate investors?
Yes , we work with a variety of clients in the short-term rental industry, including property managers, real estate investors, and one-time short-term rental investors. We offer custom design packages to fit the needs and budgets of our clients and we are happy to work with you to create a design plan that meets your specific needs.
How can I get started with Short-Term rental design services?
Getting started with our Airbnb design services is easy. Simply go to our Contact page and schedule your free Discovery call consultation, and we will work with you to create a custom design plan that meets your needs and budget. From there, we will guide you through the design process and help you transform your rental property into a welcoming and profitable space for short-term rental guests.
When should I hire an interior designer?
At the very beginning of your project is the best time. Whether you are furnishing a room, renovating a space, or building a new home, you will want your interior designer to be with you from the beginning to ensure your vision is captured. We can work with builders, architects, and contractors before plans are finalized and see it through the finishing touches.
What does Full Service Design Mean?
At Zimmerman Interiors, full-service design means offering a turnkey solution for all your design needs. Whether you are building, remodeling, or decorating your home, short-term rental, or any other space, our comprehensive services are tailored to meet your specific requirements.
With our full-service approach, we take care of every aspect of the design process, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for our clients. This includes:
Design Consultation and Planning: We start by understanding your vision, goals, and preferences. Our expert team works closely with you to develop a customized design plan that aligns with your style, functionality needs, and project scope.
Concept Development and Visualization: We create and refine design concepts that capture your vision. Through mood boards, 3D renderings, and other visualization techniques, we bring your ideas to life, allowing you to envision the final result before implementation.
Space Planning and Layout: Our experienced designers optimize the use of your space by carefully planning the layout and ensuring efficient flow and functionality. We consider your lifestyle, needs, and any specific requirements to create a well-designed and practical environment.
Material Selection and Finishes: We guide you through the selection of materials, finishes, and fixtures that best reflect your desired aesthetic while considering quality, durability, and budget constraints. We help you make informed decisions to achieve the desired look and feel.
Furniture and Accessories Procurement: We source and curate a wide range of furniture, lighting, and accessories from trusted suppliers and manufacturers. Our team handles the procurement process, ensuring the timely delivery and installation of all items.
Project Management and Coordination: We take care of all project logistics, including coordinating with contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers. Our dedicated project managers oversee the entire process, ensuring seamless execution and timely completion.
Installation and Styling: Our team manages the installation of all elements, ensuring precise placement and attention to detail. We also provide professional styling services to add the finishing touches, creating a polished and cohesive look.
Whether you are embarking on a new construction project, a renovation, or simply looking to refresh the aesthetics of your space, our full-service design is the comprehensive solution you need. We offer a seamless turnkey experience, providing expertise and guidance every step of the way to transform your vision into a beautifully designed reality.
Do you work with clients who are out of town?
Yes! There are a lot of ways to accommodate the needs of an interior design project from afar and we are happy to discuss how we coordinate this. You can also check out our Virtual Design Services
I'm having a home built, can you go with me to my design center to finalize selections?
Yes, we offer "Designer for a Day" which gives you six hours of design guidance and it perfect for these types of scenarios.
What will I get from a consultation?
The consultation is a virtual or in person meeting with our designer. This is the time you get to ask pressing questions, we come up with solutions, and execute a deep dive into the scope of the project before deciding if we are the right fit for each other.
It’s not a meet and greet; it’s a working consultation and any notes and knowledge discussed during that meeting is yours to keep. We will not design a room in a consultation but may provide you with ideas on space and layout, color, etc. There is no formal presentation but we aim to leave you with clarity around your project and idea of next steps whether with us or on your own.
How much will Interior Design cost?
At Zimmerman Interiors, we understand that every design project is unique and can vary in terms of scope, size, and budget. We offer transparent pricing to ensure our clients have a clear understanding of the costs involved. Here is an overview of our pricing structure and cost-related information to help you determine if we're the right fit for your project:
Consultation Fees: We charge $250 for a 2-hour consultation, which provides an opportunity for us to understand your project and discuss your design goals. This initial consultation fee helps us lay the foundation for the design process.
Design Services: For most projects, we provide a flat rate quote for design services upfront. This allows you to have a clear idea of the design costs before proceeding. Our design services can be customized based on your specific requirements and budget.
Consultation Packages and DIY Packages: We also offer consultation packages and DIY packages for clients who prefer a more hands-on approach. These packages start at around $1,000, providing you with professional guidance and support throughout your design journey.
Total Project Cost: The actual total cost of the project will be presented at the design presentation. Since each project varies in scope and size, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of costs specific to your project during this stage. This means you will have contractor quotes, materials, and furnishings for a total investment.
Design Fees: Design fees typically account for 10-30% of the total project budget, depending on the level of engagement. This range allows us to allocate the necessary resources and expertise to ensure a successful outcome for your project.
While we have provided some pricing information as a general guideline, it's important to note that every design project is unique, and costs can vary based on several factors. The numbers mentioned are intended to give you a rough estimate and an understanding of our pricing structure.
How do you stay on budget?
At Zimmerman Interiors, we prioritize staying on budget throughout the entire design process. We achieve this by following a comprehensive approach that focuses on transparency, accurate pricing, and efficient decision-making. Here's how we ensure we stay on budget:
Realistic and Specific Budgeting: We begin by creating a budget that is realistic and tailored to the specific items included in your design. When we present you with the design proposal, the prices quoted are the actual costs for the individual elements we are showcasing, such as furniture, fixtures, and materials. These are not estimated or budgetary numbers; they are the real figures you can expect.
Vetted Bids and Detailed Construction Drawings: To provide a precise estimate for the construction phase, we present you with actual vetted bids based on construction drawings created by our experienced team. These bids encompass all necessary materials, labor, installation, and shipping costs. By including these comprehensive details, we ensure that the presented number is a holistic, all-inclusive figure that reflects the complete project.
Transparent Pricing and Decision-Making: We firmly believe that pricing is a crucial factor in the decision-making process. Therefore, when we present you with the design, we also provide you with hard numbers, ensuring full transparency regarding the costs associated with each design element. This empowers you to make informed decisions while considering your budgetary considerations.
Efficient Design Process: We value your time and understand the importance of avoiding unnecessary meetings and discussions. Our experienced design team takes your requirements, preferences, and needs into account and applies their expertise to make the best decisions for executing the design within your budget. This streamlined approach ensures that our design choices align with your financial goals and eliminates unnecessary delays or revisions that could impact the budget.
By incorporating these practices into our design process, we strive to keep your project on budget while delivering exceptional results. Our commitment to transparency, accurate pricing, and efficient decision-making helps us create a design that meets your vision and financial expectations.
We are dedicated to working closely with you throughout the design journey to ensure that the final result not only reflects your style and preferences but also aligns with your predetermined budget.
Are there unexpected costs to be aware of?
When it comes to your design project, we understand the importance of being prepared for unexpected costs. We take proactive measures to anticipate and mitigate unforeseen expenses. Here are some potential unexpected costs you should be aware of:
Increase in Shipping Costs: Shipping costs can vary, especially if there are changes in transportation fees, fuel prices, or other factors beyond our control. We make every effort to provide accurate shipping estimates, but it's important to be aware that unexpected cost fluctuations may occur.
Hidden Elements Behind Walls: During the construction phase, it's possible to encounter hidden elements behind walls that may require additional work or materials. This could include outdated wiring, plumbing issues, or structural challenges. While we strive to minimize these surprises through thorough inspections and planning, they can sometimes arise, necessitating additional expenses.
Expiration of Bids or Quotes: If there is a significant delay in moving forward with the project after receiving bids or quotes, suppliers or contractors may need to revise their prices. This could result in increased costs that were not initially accounted for. We work diligently to keep the project on schedule to avoid any potential cost changes due to bid expiration.
Moving and Delivery Costs: If there are split deliveries or changes in the project timeline that affect the moving and delivery schedule, there may be additional costs incurred. Factors such as rescheduling, storage fees, or additional transportation expenses can contribute to unexpected costs in this area.
To safeguard against unexpected expenses, we incorporate a contingency into your final budget. This allows us to have a buffer that can be utilized to address any unforeseen costs that may arise during the project. By being proactive and strategic with budgeting, we strive to stay on track and on budget.
At Zimmerman Interiors, we prioritize open communication and transparency, and we will keep you informed of any potential changes or additional costs that may arise throughout the project. Our goal is to minimize surprises and ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects of your design project.
By working together, we can effectively navigate any unexpected costs that may arise, ensuring a successful and satisfactory outcome for your design project.
What is virtual design, and how does it work?
Virtual design is an innovative approach that allows you to experience professional interior design services from the convenience of your own home. Through advanced digital tools and online collaboration platforms, we can create stunning design concepts and provide expert guidance remotely.
Here's how virtual design works:
Consultation: We begin with an initial consultation via phone or video call. During this discussion, we'll learn about your project goals, design preferences, and budget. This helps us understand your vision and tailor our virtual design services to meet your specific needs.
Information Gathering: We'll guide you on capturing measurements and photographs of your space. You can share floor plans, room dimensions, and any existing design elements. These details enable us to accurately visualize and plan your virtual design.
Collaboration and Communication: We utilize secure online platforms to collaborate and communicate effectively. Through video calls, email, and messaging, we'll have regular interactions to discuss design concepts, answer your questions, and provide guidance. Our designers will be readily available to ensure a smooth and interactive virtual design experience.
Design Presentation: Based on your input and our expertise, we'll create visual representations of the design concepts. These may include mood boards, 3D renderings, material samples, and furniture layouts. We'll present these designs to you digitally, allowing you to visualize and provide feedback on the proposed ideas.
Product Selections: We'll curate a selection of furnishings, materials, colors, and decor options tailored to your style and preferences. We'll provide detailed product information, including pricing and availability. With our guidance, you can make informed decisions and select the elements that best suit your design vision.
Implementation and Support: Once the design is finalized, we'll assist you in implementing the plan. We can recommend trusted vendors, assist with ordering products, and provide guidance during the installation process. Throughout the project, we'll continue to support you remotely, ensuring a successful transformation of your space.
Virtual design empowers you to work closely with our design team, receive professional guidance, and enjoy a personalized design experience—all without the need for in-person meetings. It offers convenience, flexibility, and exceptional results tailored to your unique style and preferences.
How will I visualize the design concepts and make selections remotely?
We utilize various digital tools and technologies to bring your design concepts to life virtually. This includes creating mood boards, 3D renderings, and virtual walkthroughs. We will also curate a selection of materials, finishes, furnishings, and decor options tailored to your style and preferences. With our online collaboration platforms, you can easily review and provide feedback on the design concepts and make selections from the comfort of your own home.
Can virtual design accommodate projects of any size and scope?
Absolutely! Virtual design is a versatile solution that can be tailored to suit projects of various sizes and complexities. Whether you're planning a small room makeover, a complete home renovation, or even designing a commercial space, virtual design can effectively meet your needs. We provide you everything you need to implement yourself and can provide materials you can give to your contractor.
Can I return Items?
Each shopping link provided takes you to a direct retailer that has their own return policy and most of them are very good. Some of the to-the-trade unique items we source for you do not have a return policy (unless damaged) but we can discuss ahead of time whether you want access to those types of vendors.
Do we make money off of the links?
We are not incentivized to only shop at affiliate sources and do not make money on retail links. Unlike boxed E-design service stores who only shop where they have affiliate links. We are not limited to affiliate sources. Having said that, we do have access to a special pricing structure known as a "to-the-trade" discount. This discount is provided by manufacturers and suppliers exclusively to professionals in the design industry. It allows us to procure products and materials at a lower cost than what is typically available to the retail market.
It's important to note that while we do receive a discount on these products, we do not mark up the prices when providing them to our clients. We believe in transparent and ethical business practices, which is why we pass on the savings to our clients and do not charge them any additional markup.
Why don't you share the discount with the clients?
There are a few reasons why we do not share the specific discount amount with clients:
Professional Relationships: The to-the-trade discount is a privilege offered to professionals in the industry. Sharing the specific discount amount with clients may compromise the relationships we have established with manufacturers and suppliers. It is important for us to maintain these relationships to continue receiving competitive pricing and access to exclusive products.
Service and Expertise: The value we provide as an interior designer extends beyond simply sourcing products. Our clients benefit from our knowledge, expertise, and guidance throughout the entire design process. By investing in our services, clients receive personalized design solutions, comprehensive project management, and access to a network of trusted professionals. The fee structure for our services is separate from the product costs.
Customization and Quality: We curate a selection of products that align with our clients' unique design vision and requirements. We carefully consider factors such as style, functionality, quality, and sustainability when choosing products for a project. By leveraging our industry connections and expertise, we can source high-quality and customized items that are not readily available to the general public.
Time and Effort: Sourcing, procuring, and managing the logistics of products and materials require time and effort. We dedicate significant hours to research, coordination, and ensuring that the products selected meet our clients' expectations. These efforts go beyond simply accessing a discount and involve a comprehensive approach to delivering a successful design project. We do not charge an additional "admin" fee that many firms charge to do this work but instead pay ourselves with the discount on these products.
Ultimately, our goal is to provide exceptional design services, access to unique products, and a seamless experience for our clients.
What does trade mean?
Because of our "Designer Status" we receive access to hundreds of vendors or manufacturers that do not sell directly to the public.
What is the difference in retail vs. trade?
Depending on your budget and preferences from our Discovery Call, we can source product from standard retailers like Restoration Hardware, CB2, Pottery Barn, Wayfair, etc., or we can source specialty trade vendors.
Trade vendors will replace any items arriving damage but unfortunately will not take returns.
Retail vendors each have their own return policy so make sure to refer direct when making a return.
Trade vendors are more specialty in that they are not accessible to the general public while retail vendors are accessed by everyone.
Trade vendors typically are more high end product. Lighting, art and furnishing are very high quality and unique.
We are happy to provide you with a list of the trade vendors we have relationships with and can source direct on your behalf.