Q: I'm already working with a builder/contractor, should I still 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 designer will ensure that your vision is executed so that it not only looks good (that's a given) but that it functions the best it can for your family and takes all of your wants and needs into consideration. 

Q: If we are thinking of building or remodeling next year, when should I hire an interior designer?
A: Sooner rather than later! I always suggest hiring an interior designer way before you intend to start your project, or atleast set up that initial meeting and get them lined up for when it comes time to start. 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, depending on how much assistance you're needing. I am proud to offer all levels of service to ensure that a well designed space is attainable no matter the budget. My current hourly rate as of 10/01/2024 is of $195/hr. Some projects will be strictly billed hourly, others will be quoted a flat fee and some will be a combination of both. This allows me to truly cater my services to meet your needs and your budget. For more information on estimates, please fill out the contact form and I'll be happy to discuss further based on your personal needs.

Q: I don't need full design services, what are my other options? 
A: Not a problem! There are several smaller ways to work with me, too. To start, my 90-min in home consultation is very much 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. This is perfect if you're just needing someone to accompany you to showrooms and help make some of those key decisions like flooring, tile or countertops. 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. VIRTUAL DESIGN is also great if you love DIY projects but just need a little help getting started.

Q: Do you offer just renderings separate from your other design services?
A: Yes! Those are quoted based on size and scope, but I am happy to provide a quick quote for you. 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 various 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 often 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: I am proud to hold 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 in both commercial and residential design with a strong architectural basis. After completing their 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 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. My current office hours are Monday-Friday 8:30am - 4:00pm. I am currently only booking consultations and meetings from Tuesday through Thursday between 8:30am & 1:30pm. Please allow 24 hrs for a response to any online submissions, emails or phone calls.

Q: Do you have a team of trades people on staff to execute our design?
A: I do not have an in-house staff to handle execution and installation but I do work with several amazing builders, contractors and trades teams and I'm happy to recommend them to you loca to Greensboro NC. I do strongly suggest that you meet with multiple options to see which would be a good fit. I only handle the design side of things and do not handle hiring the trades teams.