FAQ

Your Style

How will you figure out our aesthetic and ensure the design reflects what we love?

This is a critical step in the process. We spend lots of time getting to know you and others in your home. We ask lots of questions about your lifestyle, hobbies, travel, and how you want to feel in your space. We use a special technique to discover design elements you are drawn to…more than a design style.

Can you source art and unique pieces for our space?

Absolutely! Art is an important part of the overall design and deserves time and attention. For those clients who want original art, we work with local galleries and artists to source the perfect pieces to compliment the design and speak to you.

What’s your approach to incorporating personal items like family heirlooms into the design?

Items passed down or collected that we love must have a place in our homes. We incorporate them into the room design and include them in our presentation. If they don’t compliment your aesthetic, we help you find another place in your home where they can shine.

How will you assess what functionality and layout work best for us?

We spend a lot of time initially getting to know you and others in your home to understand how you live. How do you use or want to use the space? In smaller homes, most rooms need to accommodate multiple functions. We ensure there is adequate space to maneuver around furniture safely. Flow throughout the home is critical.

Can you design a space that will stand up to the test of pets and visiting children?

Yes! We love our grandchildren and/or pets. They are a big part of our lives, and we must consider them in room design. Whether you want a fun guest room just for the grandchildren or a laundry room that doubles as a pet center, we ensure all your needs are met. And thank goodness for the variety of performance fabrics, so you don’t have to compromise on beauty!

Our Process

What’s included in the consultation?

During our visit, we spend time getting to know you and how you live in your home. We discuss your project, tour the space and provide some initial observations and recommendations. We will explain our detailed process and what you can expect when working with us. Based on our conversations and tour we develop a SOW for your review/approval.

Do you charge for the consultation?

Yes, we charge $250 for the initial in-home consultation.

Do you have trusted contractors you can recommend?

We have some trusted contractors you can talk to, or you can use those you have worked with before on other projects.

Will you handle communication with contractors during the project?

Absolutely! Communication between the contractors and the designer is critical to ensure everyone is always on the same page.

At what point in the planning phase should we contact you?

The sooner the better. Before you buy one thing, call us. There are many steps that need to happen before any items are purchased. This will save you time and money.

How is the timeline determined?

The timeline is based on the scope of work and estimate of the time to complete our three project phases: Project Commencement, Design Development, and Project Fulfillment. We allow extra time for each phase to account for the unexpected.

Can we make changes to the design once we’ve started?

At the end of the Design Development phase, we will present 1-2 options for the final space plan. The options include upholstery items, i.e., sofa or chair styles, fabrics, tables, finishes, rugs, light fixtures, and any specific art pieces. At the conclusion of the presentation, you may want to see different fabrics, light fixtures, etc., so one more iteration may be necessary. Only one additional iteration is included in the SOW. The next phase is Project Fulfillment, and all selections are locked down for ordering. No changes can be made once the items are ordered.

How often do you communicate with us throughout the project?

There are several meetings/touchpoints throughout the project. In addition, we send a weekly email stating what was accomplished on your project that week, what will be happening the following week and any input/decisions we will/still need from you. This ensures we are all on the same page.

How do you ensure the project stays on budget?

The budget is always the elephant in the room and must be addressed at the very beginning. Our design plan is developed within the constraints of the budget to include quotes from the different trades. We track all costs and provide you with a “spend-to-budget” report on a regular basis.

Does Merulla Interiors have a minimum project size?

We prefer to do whole room or whole house design projects but understand the needs of those downsizing. You may have some urgent needs to tackle first before you can focus on the entire room. In these situations, we create an overall design plan and break it down into phases to coordinate with your timing and budget.

What is the fee structure?

Every project is different. For each project we develop a Scope of Work (SOW) for your review and approval. Based on the SOW we determine the total fee, which includes all aspects of the project,i.e.; space planning, furnishing and finish selections, custom feature designs (if needed), lighting plans, trade coordination, ordering/tracking, receiving/inspection, and white glove installation. Once the SOW is approved, we generate the proposal which includes the fee. At contract sign, we request 50% upfront, then 25% net 30 days, and 25% net 60 days.