FAQ
WHERE ARE YOU BASED?
Melissa is based in the Bayside area of Cleveland, Brisbane and is happy to work with clients across Australia.
IS THERE PARKING AT THE DESIGN STUDIO?
Melissa has her interior design studio in a residential property, so there is on street parking. For more information about the initial consultation, please see our “Design Services”.
HOW LONG ARE CONSULTATIONS?
It is necessary to book an appointment with Melissa as the initial consultation usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours. For more information about the initial consultation, please see our “Design Services”.
WHO DO WE WORK WITH?
Melissa works with architects, landscape architects, builders and trusted contractors.
Melissa likes to work with her handpicked trusted tradespeople as part of her full-interior design service so that she has confidence in delivering a high standard for you from start to finish.
HOW LONG DO PROJECTS USUALLY TAKE?
This is like asking “how long is a piece of string”. As every project is unique, Melissa will give you a guide throughout the process.
Each project varies based on the scope of work. Interior decorating projects, can take a few weeks to a few months. Medium projects can take around six months, and large projects can take anywhere from twelve months to two years depending on the availability of materials and our contractors.
WHAT IS THE FEE PROCESS?
Following our complimentary 30-minute telephone discussion, our initial in-home design consultation comprises a meeting with Melissa, our highly skilled interior designer. This consultation typically spans a duration of 1.5 to 2 hours. To secure and confirm your appointment for this valuable service, there is a fee of $250, which includes Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Subsequent to the initial consultation, and prior to progressing to the subsequent project phase, a formal Agreement will be executed, delineating the scope of work. Before the project’s commencement, the client is expected to remit a predetermined retainer. This retainer will be maintained until project completion and the issuance of the final invoice.
Following this initial phase, clients will receive weekly invoices accounting for Melissa’s professional service fees, contractor fees, material expenses, and any other associated incidentals that have arisen. This systematic invoicing approach allows for comprehensive financial transparency, enabling both parties to maintain precise budgetary oversight throughout the project’s duration.
In the event that we approach the established budget threshold, we will promptly communicate this information to you. It’s important to note that material costs can experience unforeseen fluctuations, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, making them inherently unpredictable.
Should you desire more detailed insight into our fee structures, we encourage you to arrange a consultation with us. This will enable us to provide you with comprehensive information tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
WHEN IS PAYMENT REQUIRED?
On the initial consultation, payment is required when making a booking.
Upon signing an Agreement with Melissa, you will be asked to pay a predetermined retainer based on the scope of work prior to the next phase.
You will be invoiced at the end of each week, to cover Melissa’s services, material costs, trades and any other incidental expenses.
WHO WILL BE WORKING ON MY PROJECT?
Melissa, Principal Designer will be working from start to finish guiding you through your project.
HOW DO YOU COMMUNICATE THROUGH THE PROJECT?
We will email you at the end of each week on a Friday, with a progress report. Telephone calls and meetings are always part of the process during the project.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS OF WORK?
Melissa’s working hours are between 9.00 am and 5.30 pm, Monday to Friday.
On large or urgent projects, these hours may be extended.