FAQ
How do you typically work with clients?
We work collaboratively and transparently. Some clients come to us with a clear vision, others need more guidance — both are welcome. Our role is to help translate ideas into thoughtful, functional, and beautiful spaces while managing the details along the way.
Do you charge hourly or flat fees?
Our services are billed at $160 per hour, in 15-minute increments. This approach allows flexibility and ensures clients pay only for the time actually spent on their project. For larger projects, we can provide estimated hour ranges after an initial consultation.
How many design hours should I expect for my project?
Every project is different, but typical design hour ranges in the Bay Area are:
Bathroom remodel: 20–40 hours
Kitchen remodel: 40–90 hours
Full-home remodel: 100–200+ hours
New construction specifications: varies widely based on size and complexity. These ranges include design development, selections, coordination, and meetings.
Do you charge for travel time?
Yes. Travel time is billed at $60 per hour, in 15-minute increments.
This includes time spent travelling to and from project sites, vendor visits, and on-site coordination.
Do you mark up furniture, materials, or finishes?
We believe in fairness and transparency.
Trade discounts of up to 20% are passed directly to the client. When discounts exceed 20%, we apply a 10% procurement fee.
Do you mark up contractors or trade labor?
No. We do not mark up trade labor or subcontractor services. Clients are billed the direct cost for contractors, electricians, painters, cabinetmakers, wallpaper installers, and other trade professionals.
How long is the design process and how long does the construction take?
The design process usually takes between 8-10 weeks, but can be longer. The construction phase is typically between 8-10 weeks for a bathroom and 8-12 weeks for a kitchen. Full home remodels and new construction projects typically take 6 months.
Can I purchase items myself?
To ensure proper ordering, tracking, and issue resolution, we place orders directly on behalf of our clients. This allows us to manage timelines, handle any discrepancies, and maintain consistency throughout the project.
Do you work with budgets?
Absolutely. We believe good design happens within real-world parameters. Budgets help guide decisions and prioritize where to invest for the most impact.
Are you a cabinet dealer?
Yes. We are an authorized dealer for Crystal Cabinets, offering high-quality, American-made cabinetry.
While we do not have a showroom, we can direct you to one near your home where you can view different cabinet lines and material options in person.
www.crystalcabinets.com
