Common Questions & Answers
Design Fees
Question:
Why charge a markup in addition to your flat/hourly rate? Isn’t that considered “double-dipping”?
Answer:
The simplest explanation for this method of billing is that my flat/hourly rates cover my overhead and that the markup on a product is my business’ profit. It is difficult to be profitable in the design industry without billing a markup, and I would be doing myself and my clients a disservice if I did not run a profitable and successful business. I view the markup as a commission that I have earned based on my research into and experience with product lines, my relationship with trade-only vendors, and the extensive amount of management that goes into selecting, ordering, tracking, inspecting, and placing a product. Because of my special vendor relationships, you usually pay LESS than retail for new items, even with a markup!
Question:
Why must I pay for freight/delivery when retailers ship for free?
Answer:
Many retailers advertise “free shipping” when they are simply rolling the cost of freight into the price of the item. We offer complete transparency, which is why you see pricing for freight on each item. Suppose your products are delivered to and stored at a warehouse facility. In that case, you will incur a small fee for “white glove delivery,” which is the cost to store, inspect, deliver, and carefully install your products on installation day. You are never charged a markup for freight and delivery.
Design Process
Question:
What’s the difference between a SCOPE OF WORK and a CONTRACT?
Answer:
The SCOPE OF WORK is a list of all the work you want Adair Rox Interiors to do for you. I ask you to sign it to show you know exactly what you are getting into and understand what is expected of you and me. The contract is a legal document that outlines exactly the responsibilities we assume by working together. I will go over each document in as much detail as you need to make sure you fully understand them completely.
Question:
Is Adair Rox Interiors a General Contractor?
Answer:
No. Adair Rox Interiors does not sell labor or trade services outside design and design consultation. If you need a skilled tradesperson or general contractor to complete your job, I will work closely, providing drawings and design, answering questions, and selecting/delivering materials, but you will pay each contractor or tradesperson separately from Adair Rox Interiors. I have a long list of excellent and talented contractors, installers, reupholsters, drapery workrooms, and other tradespeople that I refer to you. I’m also happy to work with someone you already know and trust.
Question:
Do I have to order all of my stuff through Adair Rox Interiors?
Answer:
It is not mandatory but HIGHLY suggested. Developing a design is a long, complex task. Each material, finish, or product that I select for you must fulfill a multitude of requirements, and those requirements change with each client. Trying to “make something work” that wasn’t included in your proposal will incur additional costs to you in your design time, so we ask that you trust us to place orders on your behalf (unless we have agreed to make an exception). When you purchase through Adair Rox Interiors, you have access to a much broader array of custom options, trade-only items, and materials that you couldn’t find on your own. Your finished rooms will look unique and exclusive to you, instead of ubiquitous.
And, isn’t that why you hired a designer in the first place?
Question:
How should I communicate with you?
Answer:
I am available by phone or email Monday - Friday, 10 am – 5 pm. I reserve texting for friends and family only, so please use email and phone calls to reach me. I will reply within 1-2 business days.
I appreciate your understanding!