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Here are some answers to frequently asked questions to de-mystify the design process!
Timeline + Process
Design Services + Deliverables
Fees
Procurement
Contractors and Tradespersons
Other
what services do you offer?
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We offer a range of services to meet different client needs and preferences. We work on both residential and commercial projects.
Our service offerings include:
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Full Luxury Service: This is our full turnkey interior design package. It includes comprehensive design, procurement, and contractor coordination services. Full Luxury Service is ideal for clients who want the ultimate luxury experience, allowing them to sit back while our expert team handles the intricate details (and the stress) from conception all the way through execution.
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Virtual/E-Design: This online design service is a convenient and cost-effective option for clients who are comfortable implementing the design on their own. It focuses on providing clients with the creative blueprint and tools needed to transform their space, including mood boards, floorplans/layouts, and product recommendations with shopping links and installation guides.
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Designer-for-a-Day: This customizable service offers a one-day session with a professional designer to address specific design challenges. It can also be used to get expert styling and accessorizing for your space, including a personalized shopping appointment. This option is perfect for clients seeking quick design consulting or a stylish enhancement of a few key spaces.
Book a Discovery Call or fill out our Inquiry Form to learn more about which offering might be right for you and discuss next steps!
Depending on the offering, our services may include (but are not limited to):
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Space + layout planning
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Floorplans
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Electrical + lighting planning
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Design conceptualization
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Budget/investment planning
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Vendor sourcing + pricing
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Procurement, including purchasing + installation
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Contractor + tradesperson coordination
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Styling + accessorizing
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Project coordination + administration
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Kitchens + bathrooms
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Interior furniture
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Accessories, art + décor
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Outdoor + patio furniture
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Wine storage + wine rooms
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Beverage stations, tasting rooms + bars
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Moving to a new home furniture layout services
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Corporate offices and office/home flex spaces
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Corporate/executive stay housing
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Vacation/short-term rental properties (Airbnb, Vrbo, etc.)
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Public spaces + lobbies
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Hospitality + restaurants
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Showhouses + Parade of Homes
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Window treatments, including custom drapery
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Floor coverings, including area rugs
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Wall coverings, including paint, faux finishes + wallpaper
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Appliances
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Plumbing + hardware
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Tile + flooring
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Lighting
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Bedding + pillows
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Fabrics + upholstery
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Cabinetry + millwork
What are Procurement and Contractor Coordination Services?
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Our Full Luxury Service offering includes comprehensive procurement and contractor coordination services. Here’s a closer look at what that involves:
Procurement Services: We’ll manage the full purchasing lifecycle of furniture + décor items specified by our designers – from placing orders through managing white glove deliveries, installations, and issue resolutions. A key benefit of this approach is it enables our designers to curate from trade-only vendors offering our clientele a more exclusive universe of selections. This allows for more custom, one-of-a-kind pieces that can truly make your space memorable.
For most building materials we specify (ex: tile/flooring, plumbing fixtures + hardware, lighting fixtures, appliances, etc.), we’ll also place those orders on your behalf—with certain limited exceptions that generally are procured by a contractor (ex: doors + windows, railings, countertops, etc.). After orders are placed, your contractor will be responsible for managing receiving/storage, deliveries, inspections, and installation of all building materials. We can help to coordinate that process with them.
We have developed and refined our process over many years and have found that it is the best way to avoid expensive mistakes.
Contractor Coordination Services: If needed, we’ll coordinate bids for any work by third-party general contractors, architects, engineers, and tradespersons (ex: wallpaper, cabinet, window treatment/drapery, and art fabricators + installers). We’ll also prepare handoff package(s) and review them with the contractors and trades so they have the details and information they need to execute the design vision. During the construction process, we’ll answer their design questions, do site visits as needed, and help with issue resolutions to take that stress off your plate.
If you don’t yet have all of your contractors and trades lined up, we have built relationships with a network of trusted partners in the Austin area and would be happy to connect you.
Please note: Davinci Interiors is not a general contractor and does not project manage construction projects (ex: scheduling subcontractors, setting construction timelines, etc.). That will be the responsibility of the general contractor, who should have a dedicated project manager that will work with you.
What Will I Receive for Your Services?
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The design deliverables and services differ for each offering. Here's an overview of what you can expect to receive for each:
**Full Luxury Service**
Our Full Luxury Service design deliverables may include:
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Layouts/floorplans
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Mood boards with design concepts and design selections
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3D renderings (optional)
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Budget/investment planning tools
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Proposals + invoices for approved selections
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One round of revisions
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Access to a private project portal (to access your design + financial documents)
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Access to a private Slack messaging channel to communicate directly with our entire team
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Weekly project status updates, with a continually updated projected timeline
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Bid coordination for any work by third-party general contractors, architects, engineers, and tradespersons (ex: wallpaper, cabinet, window treatment/drapery, and art installers)
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A contractor handoff package with relevant drawings, elevations, plans, specifications, design boards, and other documents needed to execute the design vision
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If relevant (ex: remodels with footprint changes):
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Preliminary architecture plans*
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Lighting and electrical plans*
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Please note: our plans will not be stamped and will need to be passed to a qualified third party for review, refinement, and stamping. You’ll need to work with your contractor or architect to secure any permits or approvals. We have trusted experts we can recommend.
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Our Full Luxury Service process includes the following in-person meetings during the design phase, in addition to an initial in-person consultation (meetings can also be held virtually for clients outside of Austin):
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Design Kickoff Meeting
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If relevant: Architecture Plan Meeting
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If relevant: Appliances Showroom Visit
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Design Concepts Meeting
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Selections Meeting
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Contractor Handoff Meeting
Our Full Luxury Service process also includes the following services during the implementation phase:
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Check-in site visits as needed during construction for remodel/new build projects
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Ongoing contractor coordination during the construction process (answering design questions and helping with issue resolutions)
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Management of the full purchasing lifecycle – from placing orders through managing white glove deliveries, installations, and issue resolutions
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Designer attendance at major delivery/install days, with full white glove delivery + installation
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Designer in-person styling/accessorizing (optional add-on service)
**Virtual Design**
Our Virtual Design deliverables may include:
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Mood boards
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3D renderings (optional)
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Scaled floorplans with furniture layout and elevations as needed
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Product recommendations with shopping links
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One round of revisions
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Access to a private project portal to access your design + shopping links and communicate directly with your designer
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Install guides with designer notes as needed (ex: where and how to hang artwork, curtain rods or light fixtures; furniture placement; styling tips)
The Virtual Design process includes the following meetings:
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Virtual Design Consultation via Zoom
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Virtual Selections Meeting via Zoom
Clients manage Virtual Design project implementation on their own, including procurement and any contractor coordination.
**Designer-for-a-Day**
Deliverables for our Designer-for-a-Day offering vary by project. They are typically limited to mood boards, floorplans/layouts, and/or optional 3D renderings. Examples of Designer-for-a-Day services may include:
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A personalized shopping appointment to procure accessories in the morning, followed by an afternoon styling session in your home.
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One or more meetings at local showroom(s) or our design studio to consult on material, finish, or furnishing selections
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Targeted design session to develop concepts and/or selections for 1-2 key spaces
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Paint or color consultations
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And more – contact us with details to see if this option is right for you!
how long does the process take?
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The typical design timeline differs for each service offering:
**Full Luxury Service**
For Full Luxury Service projects, you can expect the design plan to take ~ 3-4 months (on average) after your project has launched before implementation begins. Larger and more complex projects may require more time. It is best to allow time + space for the creative process to unfold for the most spectacular and magazine-worthy results!
Implementation timelines vary by project.
An overview of average timelines for the steps in the design process is included in FAQ #5 below. We provide a tailored timeline specific to your project as part of the design kickoff and regular weekly project status updates.
Please note: We offer up to one round of deliverable revisions following key design meetings. We ask that you share all your input at one time so that we can make edits as efficiently as possible. Revisions can add time to the project depending on the scale of the revision.
**Virtual Design**
For Virtual Design projects, the average turn-around time for design deliverables after the Virtual Design Consultation is 15-25 business days. Clients implement on their own schedule.
Please note: We offer one round of deliverable revisions following the Virtual Selections Meeting. We ask that you share all your input at one time so that we can make edits as efficiently as possible. Revisions can add time to the project depending on the scale of the revision.
**Designer-for-a-Day**
Our Designer-for-a-Day services are typically completed in a single day, with any final design deliverables typically delivered within 2-3 business days.
Please note: Unless otherwise agreed, revisions of deliverables are typically not included with this offering.
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what are the steps in the design process?
The design process differs for each service offering:
**Full Luxury Service**
The first step in our Full Luxury Service process is an in-depth, in-person (or virtual if in-person is not feasible) initial consultation to do a walk-through, take photos, and gather the information we need to put together a detailed proposed Scope of Work and Design Fee Estimate.
After Davinci Interiors is hired, there are three major phases of the design process:
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Design Concepts + Investment Planning Phase
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Selections Phase
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Implementation Phase
(1) Design Concepts + Investment Planning Phase (~6-8 Weeks*)
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Design Kick-off Meeting (~1-2 Weeks*): This is the first in-person design meeting. It is mostly business + logistics. We’ll gather careful measurements, photos, and videos of your space. We’ll complete a detailed Design Questionnaire with you to get aligned on the design vision and understand your goals and preferences. We'll also go over a projected timeline, target investment amount, and contractor/trade coordination plan. It is typically held within 1-2 weeks of the project launch.
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If Needed: Architecture Plan Meeting (~3-6 weeks*, may overlap with Design Concepts Meeting timeline): If your project involves a new build, addition, or major remodel with footprint changes, we’ll meet to review proposed architecture plans. If there are structural unknowns, we’ll need to coordinate with a contractor, engineer, or architect at this stage. Please note: our plans will not be stamped and will need to be passed to a qualified third party for review, refinement, and stamping. You’ll need to work with your contractor or architect to secure any permits or approvals. We have trusted experts we can recommend.
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Design Concepts Meeting (~3-4 Weeks*): This is the next milestone meeting, typically held at our design studio. Our designers will present Design Concept Boards and a proposed Investment Estimate to give you visibility into projected project costs. Once we have your approval of these items, everything is in place to start making selections.
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Contractor and Trade Bids (varies by project): We coordinate bids with contractors and tradespersons as nearly as possible in the design process, including for a general contractor, wallpaper installer, window treatment fabricator + installer, and cabinet fabricator + installer (as applicable for your project). The timing of contractor/trade bid walkthroughs differs by project and may occur during either the Concepts or Selections phase.
(2) Selections Phase (~6-8 Weeks*)
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Selections Meeting (~ 4-6 Weeks*): During the selections phase, our designers select actual materials + furnishings in line with the approved design vision and Investment Estimate. We’ll prepare Selections Boards, floorplans/layouts for furniture, (optional) 3D renderings, and pricing proposals to review with you at a final Selections Meeting. Once we get your approval, we can start bringing the design vision to life!
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Contractor Handoff (~1-2 Weeks*): After the selections are confirmed, we’ll prepare handoff materials for any contractors and tradespersons so they have what they need to implement the design vision. We hold a formal handoff meeting to make sure everyone is set up for success.
(3) Implementation Phase (varies by project)
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Construction Site Visits + Touchpoints: During the implementation phase, we’ll do periodic site visits as needed during any construction or remodel work. Our designers will be on-call to answer any design questions from the contractors and installers. Please note: all construction work and timelines (including coordination of subcontractors) will be project-managed by your general contractor.
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Procurement + Install Days: We'll manage the purchase + installation of the fabulous items you’ve selected, as described in FAQ #2 above. The procurement timeline will be affected by manufacturer and supplier lead times, availability of delivery + installation crews, and any construction delays – all of which we can navigate on your behalf. Our designers are typically present for major delivery + install days.
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In-Person Accessorizing + Styling: After all major elements are installed, you’ll have the option to hire us to help you shop for one-of-a-kind accessories and come to your home to style to perfection.
*Timelines may vary depending on complexity of project and coordination with outside vendors and other third parties.
**Virtual Design**
For Virtual Design projects, we streamline the design process to maximize efficiency without compromising on the design:
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Client Design Questionnaire + Materials Upload: Before our designers can get started, clients will complete our Design Questionnaire and upload the following materials to a shared drive: floorplans + measurements, current photos/videos of the space, and inspiration photos (minimum of five). Don’t worry if you don’t have existing floorplans – we’ll provide you with detailed instructions to take measurements and create one on your own, and it doesn’t need to be to scale! The Design Questionnaire will ask about your target investment spend for materials and furnishings.
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Virtual Design Consultation: After we’ve received all the materials we need from you, the design process kicks off with a Virtual Design Consultation to get fully aligned on the design vision and target investment spend. This includes confirming the universe of items to be selected.
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Selections Phase: During the Selections phase, your designer will select materials, finishes + furnishings in line with your design aesthetic and target investment spend. When your deliverables are ready, they’ll be transmitted digitally via a dashboard portal.
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Virtual Selections Meeting: You'll have a second virtual meeting with your designer to walk through the deliverables on the portal. After the meeting, you’ll have a 5-day window to provide feedback for up to one revision (up to 3 item reselections/space). Once the final deliverables are transmitted, you’ll be set up for success to implement the design on your own timeline!
**Designer-for-a-Day**
Our designer-for-a-day services offer a condensed design process focused on addressing immediate design needs for key spaces in a single day. It also typically includes a ~30 minute Virtual Planning Session with your designer a few days ahead of the design day.
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how soon could you start on my project?
It depends – please book a Discovery Call or fill out our Inquiry Form to find out! We take on projects all year long, but our capacity for new projects depends on our current project commitments and pipeline.
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What is my investment in your interior design services?
Our pricing structure differs for each service offering:
Please note: Our fees do not include the cost of any furnishings or materials. They also do not include the costs charged by any third-parties, such as contractors. Any such work is estimated and billed directly through the third party.
**Full Luxury Service**
As each project is different, we provide a detailed proposed Scope of Work and Design Fee Estimate following the initial consultation. Contact us to discuss next steps to get an estimate for your project.
Please note: If required for your project, Davinci Interiors uses a third-party receiving warehouse that charges its own receiving, storage, and white glove delivery fees. We collect a Receiving & Delivery Retainer at the start of the implementation phase to cover these third-party (passthrough/no mark-up) costs on your behalf. Any unused portion of these fees is refundable. For more about the benefits of using a Receiving Company - click here.
**Virtual Design**
We offer transparent, flat fee per room pricing, with optional add-ons. You can review our room packages + pricing here: Virtual Design Room Packages. We’re happy to develop a custom quote if your space does not fit into one of the pre-defined packages or has unique considerations. Contact us to discuss next steps to get an estimate for your project.
**Designer-for-a-Day **
We offer transparent, flat fee per day pricing. Contact us to discuss next steps to get an estimate for your project.
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Can I Buy Items On My Own?
Our procurement policy differs for each service offering:
**Full Luxury Service**
As part of our Full Luxury Service model, all purchasing and execution goes through Davinci Interiors (with the limited exception of certain building materials that may be procured through a contractor, as described in FAQ #2 above).
Our agreement is that we work with each client to set an Investment Estimate together, and then source items that align with both the target investment amount and the design vision. Our final prices are competitive with retail. We do not disclose or pass on our trade pricing.
This is the business model that enables us to hire an accomplished, tenured team capable of providing our clientele with impeccable designs and a first-class experience. We invest in our team and travel throughout the year to furniture and industry markets so we can be at the forefront of current designs and technology. Our clients deserve bespoke designs that are on trend, yet timeless.
**Virtual/E-Design**
For Virtual Design projects, clients manage all purchasing and execution themselves. Our designers will provide product recommendations, shopping links, and installation guides + notes to set you up for success!
**Designer-for-a-Day**
It varies depending on the type of service provided. Clients will typically manage any purchasing and execution themselves. However, for our accessorizing/styling service, clients may purchase accessories through Davinci Interiors. There may be other circumstances in which purchasing would go through our firm.
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Can you recommend a contractor for my project?
Yes, we’re happy to connect you! We work with a trusted network of contractors, electricians, lighting experts, drapery fabricators + installers, wallpaper installers, cabinet fabricators + installers, artists, architects, engineers, custom upholsterers, bedding and pillow fabricators, custom woodworkers, local showrooms, and trade-only vendors in Austin and around the globe . . . and much more!
We are also generally happy to work with your contractor if you’ve already got one lined up. We like to have a conversation with them first to understand their process and staffing, including whether they have a dedicated project manager and procurement team, as this can impact the level of contractor coordination services our firm will need to provide.
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Do You Have References?
Absolutely. We invite you to talk with our clients about their experience. Please reach out for a list of references.
Fun Fact: Taking inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci, who masterfully combined art and technology, we established Davinci Interiors. To better represent our streamlined approach, we shortened our name from Da Vinci Interiors. Our goal is to emulate Leonardo's legacy by harmonizing elegance and innovation in our designs. (other common misspellings may be Divinci Interiors or Di Vinci Interiors...all roads lead to the amazing Davinci Interiors team)