Frequently Asked Questions

You have hired me to design and complete a vision for your space and I ask that you do not select or purchase items because that selection may not be a fit for the design, space, or budget. You will receive a detailed specification  for items to be purchased direct or a proposal to be approved.

01

Can i shop on my own?

The best way to formulate an overall budget estimate is to determine your investment room-by-room. You can select furnishings at an economy level, mid-range, high-end or luxury pricing structure. I encourage incorporating furnishings from an array of price ranges to create a unique yet cost-effective space.

02

How do I create an accurate budget?

I do my best to give you a full cost outlook of each item, but additional costs such as storage, shipping, installation, or unexpected labor do occasionally happen.

03

What Additional Costs can i expect?

I work with the contractors hired by the client. I love working with other design professionals to create your custom space. I prefer to use professionals that I have worked with on previous projects and can provide recommendations when necessary. The Bungalow Cottage does not provide contractor services; so independent architects and contractors hired by the client are an integral part of the process.

04

Do You work with Contractors?

This depends on the scope of the project and what is purchased. Occasionally there are delays caused by weather, vendor vacations, factory errors, and other unpredictable influences, that are out of my control. The client as well as all professionals hired to work on the project are expected to not cause unreasonable delays in the project.

05

HOW LONG DO PROJECTS NORMALLY LAST?

Once you receive a proposal you have 3 days to either accept or decline the item. For acceptance, a signed copy of the proposal or approval on studio projects along with full payment is required to place an order. No item will be ordered by the designer until the designer receives signed proposal and full payment.

06

HOW DO I PLACE AN ORDER?

Most often orders cannot be cancelled or refunded. In the event that a full refund can be attained you may cancel the order and receive a refund for the cost of the item minus the purchasing fee and any other applicable fees. You will be charged hourly for the time spent on cancelled orders. Custom orders are nonrefundable.

07

CAN I CHANGE MY MIND AFTER AN ORDER IS PLACED?

Proposals are due with payment within 3 days. Invoices for time billing and reimbursable expenses are due within 7 days. Invoices more than 30 days past due will accrue a 10% late fee per month and all work will cease until invoice is paid.

08

WHEN ARE PAYMENTS DUE?

Increasing the scope is not a problem and will be categorized as an additional fee.

09

WHAT IF I DECIDE MID-PROJECT I WANT TO ADD MORE TO THE SCOPE? 

Please bring these to my attention immediately and we will discuss your concerns and if necessary, find a more desirable solution. The decision about what is purchased and installed in your home is ultimately yours.

10

WHAT IF I HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT AN ITEM? 

We can work within your budget, whether you are looking for a completely custom masterpiece or more along the lines of Pottery Barn or a mix of the two. Having a budget is very important for the project running smoothly and for your expectations to be met.

11

WHAT ABOUT BUDGET?

A Specification is a document that I provide the details for you to purchase an item yourself. You will pay the vendor directly. A Proposal is a document where I am requesting payment for items so that I can purchase the item on your behalf. Proposals are payable to The Bungalow Cottage.

12

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SPECIFICATION & PROPOSAL?