Frequently Asked Questions
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I currently offer my services in-person within Melbourne, Victoria and offer virtual eDesigns to clients outside of this area residing within Australia.
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I'm so glad you asked! Below is a step by step sample of what my process looks like.
1. An Initial Free Design Call (15-30 minute) to discuss scope of work
2. A consultation is scheduled to view the space and review the scope of work
3. You'll receive a Welcome Guide complete with proposals and information to help in the decision making process
4. Upon acceptance, an agreement is signed and payment is submitted
AND THEN THE FUN BEGINS!
I'll be in touch about the particulars of your project and the next steps!
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Many clients have come to me without having previously interviewed or hired a contractor. For this reason, I bring in my vetted team to support each client throughout their design/construction journey. This can be an Architect, Contractor, Electrician, Painter, Plumber, Drapery Expert, Flooring, Wallpaper Installer, etc that each serves a different purpose to meet all of your project needs. They have all been vetted, have the proper certification, and offer a high-quality finish. Based on the design, I'll make recommendations of who we'll need and will ask you to interview them to be sure the personalities align.
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This is a great question and varies with each Designer. Some charge hourly while others are flat fees. Some offer high-end design while present themselves as affordable. Some have hidden fees while others do not.
I pride myself on transparent pricing so you'll see my fees listed on my website for my set packages. These fees are based on the projected number of hours to complete the project based on the scope of work including the number of rooms involved.
Where you prefer to build your own package with me, I will provide a custom quote for you to approve before any commitments are made.
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This question is one that I get asked the most.
The cost to furnish a home differs significantly depending on your furniture preferences, however, my mission is to bring your vision to life within your confirmed budget.
I have become extremely familiar with suppliers who offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality finishes and apply this knowledge when completing a design concept for you.
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This depends on a variety of things from scope of work to be done, schedule constraints by the Designer, lead times, delays outside of my control, how quickly decisions are made and so many other things. I will be able to give you a better estimate at the time of consultation. If you have a time sensitive project, please inform me at the time of consult to ensure I can meet your needs.
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I require an initial phone conversation to get a brief overview of what you're looking for to ensure we're the right fit for one another. This call is approximately 15 minutes where we'll discuss your timeline, budget, my process and any questions you may have.
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Conducting a consultation allows both of us to decide whether entering a contract together is the best option. It is important to make sure that I understand your wants and preferred design style to maximize a successful relationship.
A wide range of topics is covered during the consultation including general information about the project, scope of work to be complete, timeline requirements, client's style, client's likes and dislikes, changes to be made and other pertinent information. In addition, we'll walk through your space and take plenty of notes and pictures (with your permission).
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There are a number of things you can do to prepare for your consultation, including allowing at least two hours for the consultation, preparing inspiration images for us to look at (Pinterest and Houzz are great programs to use when saving images) as well as a list of changes you would like to make in your space.
If your design project is an addition, renovation or new build and you’ve already begun the process, bring a copy of your floor plans, as well as your Contractor or Architects contact information.
The more information the better!
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After the consult, you will receive your Welcome Guide. In this you'll get information about AJ Lawson Designs to assist with the decision making process, what to expect working with me, your proposals, our agreement and any other pertinent information.
If you choose to hire me, you'll pay the retainer, sign the agreement and send it back to me. Once that has been completed, I'll contact you to begin working with you to create the design of your dream.
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I allow you to have as much involvement as you like, including approving each step of the design concept and arranging shopping dates with me to view products in person.
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Absolutely. I believe that it is important to incorporate any items of sentimental value into your design concept. If you have a favourite piece of furniture, accessory or something that holds value, please let me know at consultation or while filling out your questionnaire. This way I can ensure these items stay in the design plan and the design is coordinated around these valuables.