How we work…
Creating spaces tailored for our clients involves building a trusting, communicative relationship. Our first meeting will be all about getting to know each better and seeing if it feels like a good fit. I will further explain my experience & practices and we can talk a bit about your goals and expectations. From there you’ll receive a contract and the requested retainer. This will start the planning phase of the process, but before anything is put to paper we will sit to discuss your needs, wants and any project limitations. Photos and measurements of the space will be taken and we will begin frequent project meetings. While it is possible to occasionally schedule meetings for evenings and weekends it will be necessary to make yourself available during “normal” working hours. Meeting in person is preferred as it gives us better means of explaining the design intent and the selections being presented. Open communication is key to the success of every project. We want your feedback and ideas!
Ideally, purchasing, installing and implementing the design should take place after the concept has been fully realized. While this isn’t always possible, it is preferable.
How long it will take…
Rome wasn’t built in a day and your living room won’t be either! Exceptional interiors require time and patience to be realized. AKID will make every effort to work in the most expeditious manner possible, but quality craftsmanship can be a slow process. It is always best to go into a project with a clear understanding of lead times and schedules. AKID will help you make sense of what is realistic for planning, construction and installation. Aggressive timelines are possible, but remember that even items listed as “quick-ship” or in stock can have a 4 week ETA. Depending on the size and complexity, most projects run from a few months to a few years. Custom pieces, hand-made materials and made-to-order items have long lead times. Our goal is to provide you with a space that can be enjoyed for years to come. Remember, good things come to those that wait.
contractor & ARCHITECTural services
AKID is not a contractor, builder or architect and cannot provide these services. However, after nearly 15 years of construction and design in the Tri-State area we have a roster of names that can be recommended. While it is our preference to work with someone that we know and trust, we are always open to collaborating with new people and trades.
FEES & BILLING
AKID charges hourly for all services rendered. This includes tangible time - creating presentations, floorpans, purchase orders and intangible time - thinking about the design, working through challenges, sourcing an impossible-to-find item, etc. It also includes phone calls, texts, time spent on items that were nixed or changed and lots of other miscellany you might not realize will be included. We believe in transparency, clarity and respect for your budget and our professional expertise and services. All hours will be invoiced regularly with a clear description and date for the time billed.
Designer net or trade pricing is extended to the client for all purchases - we do not add any percentage or commission to the cost of goods purchased.
A 20% markup is added to the cost of labor for workrooms and craftspeople, contacted by AKID.
A retainer is required along with a signed contract at the beginning of our work together. These funds will be applied to the final invoice billed to the client at the completion of the project.
Travel expenses and miscellaneous reimbursables will be billed to the client.