Frequently Asked Questions

What types of projects do you take on? 

We work on a wide range of residential projects including full kitchen and bathroom renovations, furnishing and decorating, as well as space planning. Many of our clients are busy professionals who want someone they can trust to lead the process from start to finish. We primarily work with existing homes, the older the better! But we do work on new builds as well.

What towns do you work in?

Most of my projects are in the Boston Metro-West area (Lexington, Concord, Lincoln, Bedford, Carlisle, Westford, Newton, Belmont, Brookline, and surrounding towns). I also work with clients in Boston, Cape Cod, and beyond, and I offer virtual design services for those outside the area.

What is your design style?

I would say my style is traditional mixed with contemporary modern. I love mixing vintage and antique pieces with contemporary elements to create eclectic, timeless spaces. Some of the elements of my style are color, pattern, and layers of texture. Working with wood is one of my favorite things so I typically work in a custom or unique vintage piece or architectural wood work.

My goal is always to reflect your personality and lifestyle so that your home feels authentic, comfortable, and uniquely yours.

Do you only work on full homes, or do you also do single rooms?

Both! Some clients come to me for a full home transformation, while others want to start with one or two rooms. I have several clients that like to work 1-2 rooms at a time and then move on to other rooms after those are fully completed. Either way, I’ll help you create a space that feels cohesive and complete.

​

How does your design process work?

I follow a clear, structured process so you always know what to expect:
Discovery & Vision Workshop – We uncover your goals, style, and how you live.

 

• Design Development – I create floor plans, mood boards, drawings, and sourcing ideas.

• Procurement & Management – I handle orders, track items, and coordinate with trades.

• Installation & Styling – We bring everything together so you can enjoy your new space.

What is a Vision Workshop?

This is my signature deep-dive session where we explore your lifestyle, inspiration, and priorities. Through questionnaires, imagery, and conversation, we clarify your vision and set the tone for the design direction. I do not expect you to come to me with a solid idea of what you like, or even show me a lot of images. It's my job as your designer to lead you though the process together, and discover the the styles and details you love. Clients love it because it helps create a shared design vocabulary so there is no misinterpretation, and it also builds confidence before any big decisions are made. 

What’s the difference between full-service design and “Designer for a Day”?

Full-Service Design means I handle everything from concept to installation, including furnishings, custom pieces, window treatments, installation, and styling -- with a turn-key approach. This service is best for home owners that don't have a lot of time or desire to do design a space themselves, and they typically last 2-6 months

Designer for a Day is a one-day, collaborative workshop where we tackle a prioritized list of design needs together and create a simple to-do list you can implement at your own pace. This service is best for home owners who just want help with a handful of items, such as sourcing, selecting paint colors, or testing out a few different layouts of a room. It typically doesn't lead to a fully redesigned space, but it can help you get over the finish line of a project you have already started.

 

How long does a typical project take?

Timelines vary depending on scope. A single-room refresh might take 2–3 months, while a full home can take 6–12 months or more. I’ll always provide an estimated timeline so you know what to expect. I am a pretty diligent project manager so I am proud to say my projects usually end right on schedule!

What is the minimum investment for a project?

Every project is unique, but most full-service design clients should plan for both design fees and furnishings. I’ll walk you through an investment guide during our consultation to make sure we’re aligned. I typically show ideas of cost ranges during the second step of my process, the free virtual meet and greet. We will review costs and budgets at every single meeting thereafter so there will be no surprises!

Can you work within my budget?

Yes — my role is to help you make the most of your investment. As long as you let me know what your budget is, I’ll suggest where it makes sense to splurge and where you can save, while ensuring quality and style are never compromised. Sometimes this means reducing the scope or working on a more consultative basis.

When is the right time to bring a designer onto my project?

The earlier the better! Bringing me in at the start allows me to coordinate with architects, builders, and contractors to make sure every detail is thoughtfully planned from day one.

​

How do you charge for your services?

My services are both part fixed-fee and retainer-based. I’ll provide a detailed proposal outlining the estimated hours, deliverables, and phases of work so you know exactly what’s included. For furnishings and procurement, I also manage purchasing to save you time and ensure everything arrives smoothly.

Do you have trusted contractors and trades you work with?

Yes — I have a network of local builders, cabinetmakers, and craftspeople I trust. I’m also happy to discuss collaborating with your preferred contractor if you already have one.

Can you incorporate pieces I already own into the design?

Absolutely. Many of my favorite projects mix new pieces with antiques, heirlooms, or special items clients already own. It makes the space feel more personal and layered. That’s not to say I won’t consider if it’s right for the project or not. I take pride in being a trusted expert and offering the best advice I can.

Do you design for families with children and pets?

Yes! Many of my clients are busy families. I help select durable, washable, and family-friendly materials that still look beautiful down the road. Pets are part of the family too — I always keep them in mind to make your life easier when living in the space. I too have a dog, so I understand what it's like to keep things looking clean!

​

How do I book a consultation?

Start with a free Discovery Call. We’ll talk about your project details, timeline, and budget to see if we’re a good fit. From there, we can book a free Zoom call where I can dive into my services, pricing, process, and answer any additional questions. If everything seems like a good fit, we will then schedule the in-home paid consultation.

What should I prepare before our first meeting?

It helps to think about your goals for the space, gather inspiration images, and make a list of what you love (and don’t love) about your current home. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers — that’s where I come in!

What happens after the Discovery Call?

I’ll send you a tailored proposal. Once approved, we’ll schedule your Vision Workshop to kick off your project. From that point on, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Are you a licensed, insured, or certified professional?

Yes, Massachusetts does not require licensure for professional interior designers, however Melanie is NCIDQ certified (read more about the benefits of working with a certified designer here). We are also are fully insured and only work with insured trades and installers.