Q: I'm already working with a builder/contractor, should I still need to hire an interior designer?
A: The short answer is Yes; you should strongly consider hiring a designer to work alongside your builder/contractor. Why? Because your vision or your expectations may not align with what your builder/contractor is planning to give you. Even the best trades teams out there enlist help from designers to help ensure a space not only looks good but that it's functioning the way the client needs it to. A home built for a family with young kids will need different things than if it were built for a couple who are how empty nesters. Also, the list of decisions that should be made in a remodel or new build is a very length one and typically builders/contractors are not able to hand hold a client through that process. If you're going to spend the time and money to remodel or build your dream home, you deserve to have all of those decisions laid out for you. And those decisions should be made by YOU, not them. But no worries, I can help with that! 

Q: If we are thinking of building or remodeling next year, when should I hire an interior designer?
A: I always suggest hiring an interior designer way before you intend to start your project. If at all possible, meeting with a designer first before your builder/contractor is best. The reason being, a designer can help you put together your design concept which will showcase exactly what you are wanting and just how you want it to function. From there, you can give that information to your builder or contractor so that they can properly estimate exactly what it would cost. Often times, budgets and estimates are already set before a designer is brought on board. This results in either limitations or hefty change order fees because not enough was allocated to the budget up front to give you exactly what it is you're wanting and hoping for.

Q: How much does it cost to work with an interior designer?
A: It varies...Some designers charge one lump sum fee. But I work off a hybrid method charging a flat fee for certain phases and by the hour for others. My current hourly rate as of 10/01/2024 is of $195/hr. By charging hourly on the execution and project management side, you're given complete flexibility and transparency in my services. You can essentially use me as much or as little as needed (with a starting minimum or 10 hours, paid in full up front as a retainer). You will receive a bill twice a month. Depending on the size and scope of your project, I will estimate how much time I think you should expect to put towards design and project management so that you have an idea of how much you're likely to spend during the life of the project. Factor that estimated cost into the overall budget so that it's not a surprise expense on top of the project itself.

Q: I don't need full design services, what are my other options? 
A: There are several smaller ways to work with me. To start, my 90-min DESIGN CONSULTATION is a working session where many of your design questions may get answered just within that short period of time. Past that, you can opt for just the HOURLY ASSISTANCE starting at a 10 hour minimum. I also offer VIRTUAL DESIGN services which can still be done even if you are local to me. We do not have to work face to face in your home just because we live in the same city! You are welcome to opt for virtual services for smaller, more budget conscious projects.

Q: Do you offer just renderings separate from your other design services?
A: Yes! I do not have those listed on my website because those are quoted based on size and scope, but I am happy to provide a quick quote for you. Prices for those will start at $450 and go up from there based on size and scope. Please send a submission under the CONTACT ME tab or email me directly at info@samanthadunmire.com

Q: I'm not located in your area, can we still work together?
A: Not a problem! I offer VIRTUAL DESIGN services which allow me to help clients all over the world. You will be given access to your own personal design portal so that we can collaborate together and create a design that's perfect for your space. Check out the VIRTUAL DESIGN section under the SERVICES tab.

Q: Do you require that all products be purchased through you?
A: No, I do not operate that way. Some designers require that you allow them to furnish a space on top of designing it, but I do not require that. I am happy to make suggestions to furnish and accessorize a space and will charge hourly to do that (or you can purchase a VIRTUAL DESIGN package) but you do not have to purchase the product through me. When we first meet and lay out your wants, needs and expectations, I will determine at that time which route is best for you. If you want higher end, trade specific products, I will source from my list of amazing designer brands (like ROWE, Universal and Four Hands). Those may require that I purchase them myself through my trade accounts. But for other situations, sourcing from retail stores (like West Elm, Pottery Barn or even Target and Wayfair) may be the better way to go. In those situations, I will simply provide a shopping list using affiliate links for you to then purchase everything yourself.

Q: Do you only source trade only products or do you provide retail options?
A: No, I can shop from both! See my response above, but when we first meet and lay out your wants, needs and expectations, I will determine at that time which route is best for you. If you want higher end, trade specific products, I will source from my list of amazing designer brands (like ROWE, Universal and Four Hands). Those may require that I purchase them myself through my trade accounts. But for other situations, sourcing from retail stores (like West Elm, Pottery Barn or even Target and Wayfair) may be the better way to go. In those situations, I will simply provide a shopping list using affiliate links for you to then purchase everything yourself.

Q: What qualifications do you have as an interior designer?
A: Great questions! You should definitely know that the team you hire is qualified and worth the price their asking. I have a degree in Interior Design from East Carolina University. They have a nationally accredited design program which gave me the best training and real life application experience. After completing thair program in 2009, I began working for a commercial design firm, later moving into furniture design and eventually finding my way into residential design. I decided to branch out on my own and start my own business in 2020 and have been designing under the SDid name since then! I take regular courses to make sure I am up to speed on current design trends and building regulations and attend High Point Furniture Market twice a year. So, with my design degree, 12+ years of professional experience and my commitment to continuing education, I can assure you that I am more than qualified to assist you with any and all of your design needs!

Q: What are your business hours and do you have a physical studio location?
A: I am currently taking consultations Tuesday-Thursday from 8am-12pm. I reserve Monday and Fridays for back end work and off-site meetings. I do not take any meetings or calls after 2pm. I currently work out of my home office and do not have a commercial office space or studio. For any in person meetings, I normally conduct those on site or at the client's home. For clients that do not have a physical location yet, I use my favorite local coffee shop to set up my mobile office or we can conduct a virtual Zoom meeting.

Q: Do you have a team of trades people to execute our design?
A: I do not have an in-house staff that handles execution but I do work with several local builders, contractors and trades teams. I am happy to make recommendations to you to help execute your project and strongly suggest that you meet with them to see which would be a good fit. I only handle the design side of things and do not handle hiring the trades teams.