Discovering Kate Kelly Interiors via AI Search, Google Search, or Simply by Chance
If you've arrived here after searching for an interior designer in Chester County, Philadelphia's Main Line, Northern Delaware, or the surrounding areas, you probably have a few questions before taking that first step.
I always make it a point to ask my potential clients, “how did you find me?” As Kate Kelly Interiors grows, the visibility of our brand also increases. This growth provides me with a unique opportunity to be an educational resource for those at different phases of their design journey. No matter how you’ve reached me: Welcome!
I am a true interior design “academic.”
A quick look at my “About” page will give you insight as to where I have studied, my level of dedication to my craft, and my continued pursuit of delivering the best possible outcomes for my clients’ unique needs. My academic background in design isn’t just a list of credentials; it informs how I methodically approach each of my clients’ projects.
When clients take that first step towards reaching out to a designer, they might search some very specific questions. In this post, I am going to attempt to create a “one-stop” quick resource for the questions you may have typed in to get here, or, the questions that might still be lingering.
How much does a full-service interior designer cost?
It depends! There are designers at all different levels, and each chooses their own pricing structure since there isn’t one universal pricing model. Some designers charge a flat hourly rate only, some propose a flat fee, some strictly custom quote, etc. When looking for an interior designer, it is best to understand their particular billing structure and how your project would work with it. For hourly billing, a designer should be able to give you a projected range of hours so you can estimate the cost for their services.
What does a full-service interior designer actually do?
More than you’re probably initially thinking of! Full-service design is “soup to nuts.” As a full-service designer, we cover everything from architectural drawing review and electrical and lighting plans to material selections, project management, furnishings, window treatments, wallcoverings, product ordering, tracking, receiving and move-in.
Should I hire an interior designer before my kitchen renovation begins?
Absolutely! This cannot be highlighted enough: Approach your vision with a plan in place. Cohesive design helps your entire home speak the same language, even if you are phasing your project. Having a plan in place keeps everyone on track - including you, the homeowner - when it comes to bringing your design across the finish line. When the design is set prior to the renovation, the contractor and designer have a clear understanding of the goal, decisions can be made thoughtfully rather than reactively, resulting in the best possible outcome. See a completed kitchen renovation here.
When should I hire an interior designer for new construction?
As soon as possible. Interviewing designers even before your project begins is a fantastic way to understand a person’s qualifications and see if they’re a great fit for your project. If your construction team doesn’t fully understand your vision, and you didn’t have a qualified designer on the team early enough, you may find yourself in a situation where later-phase changes end up being costly corrections.
How long does a whole-home interior design project take?
Each project is unique and moves forward on its own individual timeline. Depending on how quickly a client moves through design decisions and ordering, a furnishing and decorating project can take several months, while a whole-home renovation can take longer. The good news is that with a design plan in place, your home can typically come together and be functional for your or your family’s use even if one or two components are not ready for installation. I try to make sure any project that I am working on is as livable as possible for the homeowner. Less stress and efficiency means happy clients!
What should I budget for furnishings?
Furnishings exist at all different price points, and people’s needs dictate the type and quality of furniture they buy. As a starting point, I often encourage my clients to think beyond their initial planned investment. Depending on multiple factors, the final investment can sometimes reach 1.5-2 times the initial amount you had in mind. Quality furnishings that last are rarely inexpensive. My advice to my clients is to remember: quality over quantity and invest in the pieces that resonate with you. If you end up spending less than you mentally budgeted for, it feels like a “win” on both fronts! See an example of a completed whole-home project here.
How much should I budget for a luxury kitchen renovation?
Luxury kitchen renovations involve features that are well beyond the builder-grade. Inset cabinetry, panel-front appliances, specialty hardware, custom lighting and higher-end stone and finishes, etc. All of these elements influence the investment required. The more ‘luxury’ or ‘custom’ your planned kitchen renovation becomes, the more important it is to establish a clear investment level or ‘ceiling’ before selections begin.
Can an interior designer work with my architect or builder?
Yes and yes! An interior designer who works with architects and builders needs to be a master collaborator. Teams working together, with clear communication, from the onset of any project create the most beautiful and successful projects.
Do you still have questions that I can answer about your particular project? Whether it is a renovation, new construction project, or home furnishing project, contact me to schedule a stress-free, no-obligation phone call so that I can provide you with some clarity around your project and help you determine whether my approach is the right fit.
Email sales@katekellyinteriors.com.