FAQs
Our Process
What’s the first step in working with Studio Cabral?
Our process begins with the Discovery Phase, where we get to know you, your lifestyle, and the goals for your home. This is your opportunity to share your vision, ask questions, and help us understand what matters most to you.
What does your design process look like?
After Discovery, we move into the Concept Phase, where we develop layouts, mood boards, and initial design proposals. From there, we refine every detail into a final project package. If you’d like, we can also collaborate directly with your builder or contractor to ensure a seamless execution.
Can I complete my project in phases?
Yes. Some clients prefer to design and build everything at once, while others choose a phased approach. We’ll help you structure the process in the way that best fits your budget, schedule, and goals.
How do you handle delays with materials or furniture?
We work closely with trusted suppliers and manufacturers to monitor lead times and anticipate delays. Whenever needed, we provide alternative solutions to keep the project moving forward and ensure you’re never left without essentials.
What happens once the project is finished?
The final stage is what we call the Client Reveal. This is the moment when we bring everything together — furniture, finishes, styling details — so you experience your new home as a complete, cohesive space.
Do I need to shop for materials or furniture myself?
No. Our role is to curate and specify every piece for your home, saving you the time and stress of searching on your own. If there’s something specific you’d like to see in person, we can arrange showroom visits or samples upon request.
Project Management
Who will guide me through the process?
Your primary contact will be our lead architect, who will coordinate every stage of your project. We place great importance on open communication, so you’ll receive consistent updates without needing to request them.
What role will I have during construction?
Our team manages all communication with contractors and suppliers. For your safety and convenience, we recommend staying away from active work areas. In more extensive renovations, you and your family may need to relocate temporarily — we’ll advise you on the best course of action.
Can you collaborate with a contractor I’ve already hired?
Yes, we can integrate with your existing contractor if you already have one. While we can ensure the design vision is followed, we cannot take responsibility for the workmanship provided by outside teams.
Do you offer full project management?
Yes, and we often recommend it. When we oversee every stage — from design through construction — the project is far more likely to stay on schedule, on budget, and true to the original concept.
Why is it beneficial to have an architect manage construction?
When the same team that designed your home also supervises its construction, every decision is aligned with the vision established at the start. We handle scheduling, coordinate the trades, and resolve any issues on your behalf. Instead of contacting multiple people, you simply communicate with us — ensuring a smoother, more cohesive experience.
Design Services
When should I hire an interior designer?
The sooner, the better — ideally at the planning stage. Bringing a designer on early helps avoid reactive decisions and ensures that finishes, function, and aesthetics are integrated from the very beginning.
What value does an interior designer bring?
You gain professional guidance to create a harmonious, efficient, and beautiful space — from layouts and material selection to final styling. You’ll also save time and avoid costly mistakes.
Can you help me discover my style?
Yes. Through a collaborative process with visual references and tailored questions, we uncover your personal taste and translate it into an authentic, personalized design.
Do you work room by room?
We can design a single room if that’s what you need, but we always keep the bigger picture in mind to create flow and consistency throughout your home.
Do you offer trade discounts?
Yes. We provide our clients access to exclusive pricing with select suppliers, typically ranging from 10% to 20% off retail.
Do you offer something in between one-time consulting and full-service design?
Our main focus is turnkey, full-service projects, but we’re open to flexible, customized solutions based on your needs.
Can you assist with finish selections or showroom visits?
Absolutely. This is part of our service. We do recommend starting the collaboration at least two months before key appointments so we can properly guide your choices.
What can I expect from the first consultation?
It’s a working session — not just an introduction. We’ll explore your goals, review the project scope, and provide practical insights. You’ll walk away with valuable notes and clarity on next steps, whether or not you move forward with us.
How much does the design service cost?
Costs vary depending on project size, complexity, and the level of service required. After understanding your goals, we provide a transparent proposal — whether hourly or flat-fee — tailored to your project.
Investment
How much does an interior design project cost?
Each project is unique, and costs vary depending on scope, scale, and level of customization. As a reference, design fees generally represent 10–30% of the total project budget. We’ll provide a detailed proposal after understanding your needs during the consultation.
Do you have minimum budgets or fees?
Yes. To ensure we deliver high-quality results, we typically work with projects that meet a minimum design fee and an overall project budget threshold. These details are discussed transparently during the consultation.
Can you tell me the average cost per room?
Not really — because every space and client is different. Instead of using averages, we provide precise estimates based on your project goals, finishes, and furnishings.
Will I pay more if I want to be closely involved?
Your level of involvement is entirely up to you. Since our work is billed hourly, additional meetings or requests will reflect in the overall fee.
Is the consultation fee applied to the project?
Yes. The initial consultation is a working session that lays the foundation for the project, and its cost is credited toward the design process.
What if my project is delayed or put on hold?
Delays are sometimes inevitable due to factors like shipping, labor availability, or supply chain issues. Our role is to anticipate and manage these setbacks, minimizing their impact on your schedule and budget. If a project is canceled, a cancellation fee may apply, which will be outlined in your contract.
How does billing work?
We issue invoices monthly for design services, which may include project management, design development, and coordination with contractors. Product purchases and construction costs are billed separately. All fees and rates are clearly outlined in your agreement.
How do you help keep the project on budget?
We begin with a clear and realistic budget tailored to your project. Every proposal includes actual pricing for furnishings, finishes, and construction — not estimates. This ensures transparency and helps you make informed decisions from the start.
What unexpected costs should I be aware of?
We recommend including a contingency allowance to cover unforeseen circumstances. Common examples include:
Increased shipping or delivery costs
Structural surprises behind walls or flooring
Expired quotes if decisions are delayed
Additional labor for unexpected site conditions