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Interior Designer Mt. Juliet TN, Interior Designer Lebanon TN, Interior Designer Hermitage TN, Interior Designer Old Hickory TN, Interior Designer Nashville TN, Interior Designer Donelson, Interior Designer Hendersonville TN, Interior Designer Gallatin TN, Interior Designer Brentwood TN, Interior Designer Franklin TN, Interior Designer Bellevue TN, Interior Designer Green Hills TN, Interior Designer Belle Meade TN, Interior Designer Davidson County TN, Interior Designer Williamson County TN, Interior Designer Wilson County TN, Interior Designer Sumner County TN
Gwen Canfield, Interior Designer/Decorator | Serving the Greater Nashville, TN Area including Mt. Juliet, Lebanon, Hendersonville, Gallatin - Davidson County, Sumner County & Wilson County
Frequently Asked Questions
Services
I design fully realized interiors that are both beautiful and highly functional for residential and commercial clients. My work spans living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, basements & other recreation spaces, offices, lobbies, conference rooms, reception areas, and restaurant dining spaces.
We approach each space as a complete, cohesive environment, not as a collection of individual pieces. Because of this, I generally don’t offer standalone selections for furniture/décor, or paint colors/lighting/finishes, unless they’re part of a full room redesign. A single new item introduced into an existing space can often feel out of scale or out of place, which is why I prefer to curate the entire room for harmony, flow, and visual consistency. However, if you have meaningful or investment pieces you’d like to keep, I'm always happy to thoughtfully incorporate them into your new design.
See what clients say about 615interiors » (https://www.615interiors.com/client-testimonials)
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
STEP 1. Phone Consult: Complimentary (30-45 min.)
Your design journey begins with a complimentary Zoom consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen. This is a chance for us to connect, talk through your vision, and review what you’re hoping to achieve with your space. I’ll explain how my design process works, and if it feels like the right fit, we’ll schedule your in-home Design Session as the next step.
STEP 2. In-Home Design Session: $500
This in-home session is the first step for clients who are ready to move forward with a full-service design project.
During our time together, we’ll walk your space, discuss your goals, evaluate scope, and talk through the level of design support needed to bring your vision to life. This session allows me to assess your project thoughtfully and provide clear direction on next steps, timeline, and investment range.
This is not a one-time decorating consult or DIY planning session. It is an entry point for clients who want a professionally guided design process from concept to completion.
What’s included:
• In-home design session/consultation
• Professional assessment of your space and goals
• Investment and scope guidance
• A written summary with recommended next steps
• A curated style direction
If you choose to move forward with a full-service design proposal within 10 days, the consult fee is applied toward your design investment.
STEP 3: Interior Design Planning: Price varies
Whether you're planning a remodel or a simple refresh, my interior design planning service is the perfect starting point. I'll guide you through a step-by-step approach to plan every detail of your redesign, ensuring it aligns with your wish list. Your personalized design plan will reflect your unique style and needs, featuring a to-scale floor plan and 3D renderings of your fully reimagined space. Together, we'll make layout and design decisions, helping you visualize your new space every step of the way. No guesswork, no trial and error, no stress - gorgeous results!
Design Fee
Our fee process is extremely transparent and varies per project. We charge a flat fee for design, which is calculated based on size of the space(s) and level of detail & complexity of the design, (your project scope, which is discovered during the in-person consult.) After your paid in-home consult, we will present you with a detailed design proposal so you’ll know exactly what your design fee will be and can plan accordingly.
STEP 4: Implementation: Price varies
In addition to interior design planning, we offer implementation services to assist with purchasing, delivery logistics, storage and white glove delivery of your furnishings. Once the design phase is complete and the implementation scope is clearly defined, we will present a proposal tailored to the specific implementation services you desire. Typically our procurement fee is 20% of the total furnishing investment.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Whether you're preparing for a remodel or refreshing an existing space, this service gives you a beautifully guided starting point. I walk you through a clear, step-by-step process to plan your redesign with confidence. Your conceptual design plan will reflect your style, wish list, and functional needs, and will include a to-scale floor plan and 3D renderings that show your space fully reimagined. Together, we’ll make thoughtful layout and design decisions so you can clearly visualize the result before moving forward—no guesswork, no trial and error.
Please note: My to-scale floor plans are perfect for planning basic remodels and refurnishing projects within an existing layout. They are not architectural construction drawings, technical blueprints, or elevation documents. For new builds, structural additions, or complex remodels, your contractor may require plans drafted by a licensed architect. We can make recommendations.
Design Plan Phase includes:
1. Floor Plan & 3D Renderings
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_fb027362171c4806958cc7a74f476fbe~mv2.jpg
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9cc1800fe7114c7991f7167a53231405~mv2.jpg
2. Color & Materials Selections
Concepts will be included in your plan for approval. Then we’ll organize a trip with you to our preferred showrooms to select materials with you.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9957db60fa8042108ab6ae5b650ac564~mv2.jpg
3. Furnishing Selections
Concepts will be included in your plan for approval. Then we’ll organize a trip to our preferred showrooms for items that require a "sit test," like sofas. Other items will be ordered through our trade-exclusive vendors.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_07b95a6bd9234ee1a87abe95ff3dc90a~mv2.jpg
See design plan examples here » (https://www.615interiors.com/design-plan-examples)
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Once your design is finalized and all furnishings, finishes, and materials have been selected, we transition into the Implementation Phase - where the plans come to life! At this stage, you’ll choose how you’d like to move forward: full-service professional implementation, where my team handles ordering, tracking, storage, delivery, and installation, or a self-implementation approach where you take the lead to obtain the selections from your design plan.
Options for obtaining our selections:
Option 1: PROFESSIONAL IMPLEMENTATION
Experience a seamless, stress-free transformation with our comprehensive service.
• Exclusive Trade Pricing Benefits: When you use our professional implementation service, we share a portion of our exclusive trade pricing, so you enjoy pricing below retail. These savings help offset the cost of our professional services, providing both value and convenience.*
• End-to-End Management: We handle every detail—from ordering and tracking to coordinating deliveries and addressing any issues that arise, (procurement).
• Secure Warehousing: Your items are received, unboxed and inspected for damage, logged, and stored in our climate controlled warehouse until every piece is ready for a consolidated delivery.**
• White-Glove Installation: On Installation Day, my team and I ensure each item is delivered, assembled, and impeccably styled, bringing your design vision to life without you lifting a finger.
Option 2: SELF IMPLEMENTATION
You handle the purchasing and logistics.
We provide a curated shopping cart with all the approved furnishings and decor. You purchase items at retail pricing and manage delivery details on your own timeline.
You’ll be responsible for:
• Purchasing all items directly at full retail pricing based on the curated list we provide
• Selecting your preferred delivery option at checkout
• Coordinating, receiving and inspecting deliveries
• Handling any damage claims or returns with vendors directly
_______________
Why Choose Professional Implementation?
In our experience, clients who opt for Professional Implementation not only enjoy a hassle-free process but also benefit financially. Handling the professional implementation enables us to provide the best furniture pricing for our clients, creating a win-win scenario: you receive premium service and savings, ensuring your space is furnished beautifully and efficiently.
_______________
Estimated Pricing for Professional Implementation
• Procurement Fee: 20-25% of total furnishing investment
• Warehouse Receiving, Inspection, & White Glove Delivery: 10%-15% of total furnishing investment
• Storage Fee: Varies based on volume and duration
• Custom estimate can be provided upon request once your final design is approved
*Because of the wholesale relationships I have with vendors, my clients usually pay BELOW retail price for furnishings. Typically, my profit margin for purchasing of furnishings falls around 20%-30%, depending on the manufacturer.
**As an option, we can order items for you and have them shipped directly to your home (sporadically/as they become available), rather than to the warehouse. You’ll need to inspect them immediately upon arrival and report any damage promptly for a vendor claim. Returns are only permitted for damaged items.
_______________
QUESTIONS? LET'S CHAT!
Book a free complimentary call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen »
When I handle the procurement of your furnishings, you gain access to my trade vendors and pricing not available to the public. While this often results in better value than retail, the greater benefit is the fully guided, hands-on design experience that comes with it - not simply a list of products.
My role includes sourcing, specifying, ordering, tracking, coordinating delivery, and overseeing installation to ensure everything comes together seamlessly. Design services are quoted separately, and procurement is supported through an implementation fee that covers purchasing, logistics coordination, warehouse communication, delivery scheduling, and issue resolution as needed.
Through my trade relationships, I’m able to source from a wide range of vetted vendors and manufacturers, many of which are not accessible to the public. This allows for a more curated result, stronger quality control, and a smoother overall experience from start to finish, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully managed from initial selection through final installation.
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Most full-service refurnishing projects in Middle Tennessee typically require an investment of $10,000–$20,000 per room for furnishings, depending on the size of the space and overall scope. Design fees are separate from furnishings and are calculated based on the level of service required. For full-service refurnishing projects, design fees generally fall around 40% of the furnishings investment, reflecting the time, expertise, sourcing, and project coordination involved in delivering a fully curated space.
Investment level depends on the size of the space, and the brands and quality you prefer. We tailor our services & furnishing selections to our clients' specific needs and desired investment level. However, here is a guideline on pricing to refurnish a room:
• Good - $10,000-$20,000
• Better - $20,000-$30,000
• Best - $30,000+
During our in-home design consult,(https://www.615interiors.com/process-rates) I’ll help determine whether your goals and budget align with what’s realistically needed to achieve the look and level of finish you’re seeking, so we can move forward with clarity and confidence.
We are happy to design your home in phases at pace that you're comfortable with.
• Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
• More FAQs » (https://615interiors.com/contact#faq)
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
For a full transformation of your space, I will always suggest replacing most of the furnishings and decor. However, if you have a sentimental piece, or have already invested in a beautiful piece that you love, I'll do my best to work it into the design so that everything in the space harmonizes.
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
No, materials and contractor fees are not included in my design service pricing. While I collaborate with your contractor to ensure your vision is carried out, they are independent professionals hired and paid directly by you as the homeowner.
For materials and finishes—such as cabinetry, tile, countertops, and more—my design phase includes guided showroom visits where I accompany you to select the perfect options for your project. Once chosen, either you or your contractor will handle the purchase of those items.
This way, you get my expertise in curating high-quality, cohesive selections, while maintaining full transparency over material costs and contractor expenses.
Questions?
I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
It depends on the project scope. However, here is a general guideline:
• Room planning and design work: 1 month
• Sourcing of materials and/or furnishings: 1 month
• Purchasing, delivery and installation of furnishings can take 4-6 weeks or longer, depending on the manufacturer, (and if any items are custom).
• If construction/remodeling is required in your project, plan on an additional 3-6 months, or longer, depending on project scope and availability of your Contractor.
These are simply guidelines. Let's chat about timelines specific to your project. Book a free Consult Call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today »
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Contractors and builders bring essential expertise to a project, and their focus is rightly on construction. Most do not offer design services, and when they do, material selections may not fully reflect your style, lifestyle needs, or the overall vision for your home. They’re not typically considering how paint, finishes, fabrics, and furnishings will work together—or how each choice will impact scale and flow.
Because construction is a significant investment, having a clear design plan in place is crucial. By partnering with 615interiors before your project begins, you’ll have a thoughtful space plan and a cohesive design direction, allowing you to move forward with confidence and enjoy a smoother, more efficient build-out.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
I'm here for you! My process is designed to bring clarity and confidence to every stage of your project. Through detailed floor plans and 3D renderings of your actual space, you’re able to fully visualize the design before moving forward. From concept development to selecting every finish and furnishing, I manage the entire process for you.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
The process begins with a complimentary Zoom consult. If we determine the project is a good fit, you’ll receive a design questionnaire and we’ll schedule your In-Home Design Session.
This paid 1–2 hour working session includes ideas, recommendations, and design guidance for your space. Afterward, we’ll review potential services for space planning, finishes, and furnishings. If everything aligns, Gwen will outline the next steps for moving forward with a formal proposal.
Learn more about our Process & Rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/process-rates)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Process & Rates
Consult Video Call: Complimentary (30 min.)
Your design journey begins with a complimentary Zoom call with Gwen. This is a chance for us to connect, talk through your vision, and review what you’re hoping to achieve with your space. I’ll explain how my full service design process works, and if it feels like the right fit, we’ll schedule your in-home Design Session/Consult as the next step.
Book a complimentary consult call Now (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)»
In-Home Design Session: $500
This in-home session is the first step for clients who are ready to move forward with a full-service design project.
During our time together, we’ll walk your space, discuss your goals, evaluate scope, and talk through the level of design support needed to bring your vision to life. This session allows me to assess your project thoughtfully and provide clear direction on next steps, timeline, and investment range.
This is not a one-time decorating consult or DIY planning session. It is an entry point for clients who want a professionally guided design process from concept to completion.
What’s included:
• In-home design session/consultation
• Professional assessment of your space and goals
• Investment and scope guidance
• A written summary with recommended next steps
• A curated style direction
If you choose to move forward with a full-service design proposal within 10 days, the consult fee is applied toward your design investment.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
For clients who want a cohesive, professionally executed home and are ready for a designer-led experience from start to finish.
Included in the Design Phase:
1. Interior Design Plan
Whether you’re planning a remodel or a simple refresh, this service is the ideal place to begin. I guide you through a clear, step-by-step process to plan every detail of your redesign. Your conceptual design plan will reflect your style and priorities, complete with a to-scale floor plan and 3D renderings of your fully reimagined space. Together, we’ll make thoughtful layout and design decisions so you can confidently visualize the final result. No guesswork, no trial and error. Just gorgeous results.
Floor Plan Example
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_fb027362171c4806958cc7a74f476fbe~mv2.jpg
3D Rendering Example
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9cc1800fe7114c7991f7167a53231405~mv2.jpg
2. Color & Materials Selections (for builds & remodels)
Concepts will be included in your design plan for review. Then we’ll organize a visit to our preferred showrooms to assist you in selecting materials, finishes, and fixtures.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_9957db60fa8042108ab6ae5b650ac564~mv2.jpg
3. Furnishing Selections (for refurnishing projects)
Concepts will be included in your design plan for review. Then I’ll organize specific options into a selections board for your approval, (usually two options per item.) Most furnishings will be sourced and ordered online through my exclusive trade vendors. For key pieces like sofas, we’ll schedule a visit to my preferred Nashville showroom for a “sit test” and fabric selection.
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3006fa_07b95a6bd9234ee1a87abe95ff3dc90a~mv2.jpg
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Once your design is finalized and all furnishings, finishes, and materials have been selected, we transition into the Implementation Phase - where the plans come to life! At this stage, you’ll choose how you’d like to move forward: full-service professional implementation, where my team handles ordering, tracking, storage, delivery, and installation, or a self-implementation approach where you take the lead to obtain the selections from your design plan.
Options for obtaining our selections:
Option 1: PROFESSIONAL IMPLEMENTATION
Experience a seamless, stress-free transformation with our comprehensive service.
• Exclusive Trade Pricing Benefits: When you use our professional implementation service, we share a portion of our exclusive trade pricing, so you enjoy pricing below retail. These savings help offset the cost of our professional services, providing both value and convenience.*
• End-to-End Management: We handle every detail—from ordering and tracking to coordinating deliveries and addressing any issues that arise, (procurement).
• Secure Warehousing: Your items are received, unboxed and inspected for damage, logged, and stored in our climate controlled warehouse until every piece is ready for a consolidated delivery.**
• White-Glove Installation: On Installation Day, my team and I ensure each item is delivered, assembled, and impeccably styled, bringing your design vision to life without you lifting a finger.
Option 2: SELF IMPLEMENTATION
You handle the purchasing and logistics.
We provide a curated shopping cart with all the approved furnishings and decor. You purchase items at retail pricing and manage delivery details on your own timeline.
You’ll be responsible for:
• Purchasing all items directly at full retail pricing based on the curated list we provide
• Selecting your preferred delivery option at checkout
• Coordinating, receiving and inspecting deliveries
• Handling any damage claims or returns with vendors directly
_______________
Why Choose Professional Implementation?
In our experience, clients who opt for Professional Implementation not only enjoy a hassle-free process but also benefit financially. Handling the professional implementation enables us to provide the best furniture pricing for our clients, creating a win-win scenario: you receive premium service and savings, ensuring your space is furnished beautifully and efficiently.
_______________
Estimated Pricing for Professional Implementation
• Procurement Fee: 20-25% of total furnishing investment
• Warehouse Receiving, Inspection, & White Glove Delivery: 10%-15% of total furnishing investment
• Storage Fee: Varies based on volume and duration
• Custom estimate can be provided upon request once your final design is approved
*Because of the wholesale relationships I have with vendors, my clients usually pay BELOW retail price for furnishings. Typically, my profit margin for purchasing of furnishings falls around 20%-30%, depending on the manufacturer.
**As an option, we can order items for you and have them shipped directly to your home (sporadically/as they become available), rather than to the warehouse. You’ll need to inspect them immediately upon arrival and report any damage promptly for a vendor claim. Returns are only permitted for damaged items.
_______________
QUESTIONS? LET'S CHAT!
Book a free complimentary call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen »
Renovation
The answer depends on the quality of finishes and fixtures you select, and if you're doing the work yourself or hiring a General Contractor (GC), which will add at least 20% for labor. Hiring a skilled general contractor for a full remodel of a mid-to-high-end kitchen typically costs $65K and up.
Please don't believe what you see on HGTV.
HGTV's remodeling prices are often unrealistically low because the shows don't provide all the information about the costs involved. Also, producers use discounted goods and services, which isn't clear to viewers.
Be Wary of Google
You can find remodeling price guidelines on Google, BUT keep in mind that pricing listed there is often MUCH TOO LOW and does not include cost for labor. Always consult a reputable builder who specializes in quality renovations. We can make recommendations for you.
Why Design Planning Pays Off
A well-planned design approach saves time, minimizes stress, and helps avoid expensive missteps. If you’re busy, indecisive, or facing a larger renovation, partnering with an interior designer is one of the smartest investments you can make. Builders appreciate the clarity and direction a designer brings to the process, which often leads to a smoother project—and cost savings for you.
Learn more about our process & rates here.(https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a Complimentary consult call with Gwen today »
The answer depends on the quality of finishes and fixtures you select, and if you're doing the work yourself or hiring a General Contractor (GC), which will add at least 20% for labor. Hiring a skilled general contractor for a full remodel of a mid-to-high-end bathroom typically costs $50K and up.
Please don't believe what you see on HGTV.
HGTV's remodeling prices are often unrealistically low because the shows don't provide all the information about the costs involved. Also, producers use discounted goods and services, which isn't clear to viewers.
Be Wary of Google
You can find remodeling price guidelines on Google, BUT keep in mind that pricing listed there is often MUCH TOO LOW and does not include cost for labor. Always consult a reputable builder who specializes in quality renovations. We can make recommendations for you.
Why Design Planning Pays Off
A well-planned design approach saves time, minimizes stress, and helps avoid expensive missteps. If you’re busy, indecisive, or facing a larger renovation, partnering with an interior designer is one of the smartest investments you can make. Builders appreciate the clarity and direction a designer brings to the process, which often leads to a smoother project—and cost savings for you.
Learn more about our process & rates here.(https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a Complimentary consult call with Gwen today »
The answer depends on the project scope, quality of finishes and fixtures you desire, and if you're doing the work yourself, or hiring a general contractor (which will add at least 20% for labor). Always consult a reputable general contractor for a ballpark estimate on your project. We can make recommendations.
Please don't believe what you see on HGTV.
HGTV's remodeling prices are often unrealistically low because the shows don't provide all the information about the costs involved. Also, producers use discounted goods and services, which isn't clear to viewers.
Be Wary of Google
You can find remodeling price guidelines on Google, BUT keep in mind that pricing listed there is often MUCH TOO LOW and does not include cost for labor. Always consult a reputable builder who specializes in quality renovations. We can make recommendations for you.
Why Design Planning Pays Off
A well-planned design approach saves time, minimizes stress, and helps avoid expensive missteps. If you’re busy, indecisive, or facing a larger renovation, partnering with an interior designer is one of the smartest investments you can make. Builders appreciate the clarity and direction a designer brings to the process, which often leads to a smoother project—and cost savings for you.
Learn more about our process & rates here.(https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a Complimentary consult call with Gwen today »
Remodeling may cost more than a new car. But the bright side is that, depending on the project, investing in your home will actually help increase its value. Remodeling your home is an investment that will see a return.
While paying with cash for home improvement projects would be ideal, it’s not always possible. You do have options when it comes to financing, though, including home equity, refinancing, an FHA home improvement loan, a credit card, or a personal loan.
Many of the remodeling contractors we partner with offer payment options to homeowners. For interior design work, 615interiors offers the option to divide design fees into manageable payments, and we accept payments via check or electronically using card or bank transfer. Additionally, a convenient HELOC application link is embedded in our invoices as an option for financing. Our clients can be approved in as little as 5 minutes and initiate funding in as little as 5 days.
There are many types of home improvement loans, including:
• HELOC (home equity line of credit)
A HELOC offers homeowners a way to tap into their home equity for cash. You can borrow as you go, only pay interest on what you use. A HELOC gives you the flexibility to use the funds for almost anything you need. This is a major benefit of a HELOC as compared to loans that may only be used for a narrow range of purposes and charge higher interest rates.
• Home equity loans
A secured loan that uses your property as collateral. This can be a good way to fund home improvements if you can afford the payments.
• Cash-out refinance
A good option if you can lower your mortgage rate while taking cash out. This only works if current market rates are lower than your existing rate.
• Personal loans
Some lenders offer no-fee personal loans with competitive rates, high loan amounts, and long loan terms.
• Upstart
A good option for people with a low credit score or no credit history. Upstart considers factors like education and employment.
• LightStream
Offers no fees, low rates, and terms up to 12 years. Borrowers can apply for a joint loan to get a lower rate or higher loan amount.
• Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan
A conventional loan program that covers various renovation projects, but has stricter eligibility requirements than government-backed loans.
The best home improvement financing option depends on your situation.
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today.
Anything worth doing needs time. Renovating a single small room can easily take 3 months from initial design research to finished construction, whereas a fuller renovation can take much longer. We always say, "renovation always takes longer and costs more than you think." But there are things you can do to plan ahead and mitigate the unexpected.
Give yourself time to design
A thorough design process should be given two to six months. Projects usually involve more decisions than people expect, so plan to spend several months defining your vision, and some time working with a professional to give it the clarity it deserves.
Allow time for permitting
If you're adding onto your home, permit(s) will be needed. Larger cities generally have more stringent permitting processes, so depending on where you live, the approval process can range from several weeks to several months. Once you've cleared this hurdle you can start building.
Don't believe what you see on TV
TV shows might lead you to believe that you can complete a dramatic makeover in three days, but the reality is that it takes much longer. Between demolition, delivery of materials, building time, and allowing some buffer time, expect at least a month for any renovation that is more than cosmetic. Even a month can be optimistic.
Anticipate scheduling conflicts
People tend to overlook the availability of professionals and materials. Depending on what products you’ve ordered and what trades you require (tilers, plumbers, painters, glass fitters), you may not be able to begin construction on a moment’s notice.
A note on seasonality
It is wise to begin your project in the off-seasons, rather than during the spring and early summer, when people are trying to ready their homes for entertaining. November and December are packed with holidays, so it can be tough finding tradespeople to schedule time with! All of this can be avoided by starting early and booking in advance.
Most Importantly
Always consult a reputable General Contractor who specializes in renovation. We can make recommendations.
Check out our blog post What Is a Reasonable Renovation Timeline? (https://www.615interiors.com/post/what-is-a-reasonable-renovation-timeline-1)
Another excellent resource is Houzz.com's "Beginner's Guide to Home Remodeling", check it out here » https://www.houzz.com/education (https://www.houzz.com/education)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today.
Contractors and builders bring essential expertise to a project, and their focus is rightly on construction. Most do not offer design services, and when they do, material selections may not fully reflect your style, lifestyle needs, or the overall vision for your home. They’re not typically considering how paint, finishes, fabrics, and furnishings will work together—or how each choice will impact scale and flow.
Because construction is a significant investment, having a clear design plan in place is crucial. By partnering with 615interiors before your project begins, you’ll have a thoughtful space plan and a cohesive design direction, allowing you to move forward with confidence and enjoy a smoother, more efficient build-out.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? I'd love to chat with you! Book a complimentary consultation call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with me today.
Help ensure a beautiful, successful remodel by avoiding these five common mistakes.
Starting without a plan
The most regrettable renovations are invariably the ones that don't have a plan. Without one, all sorts of things can go awry, and most homeowners find out too late — a vanity that’s too big for your bathroom, a fridge door that hits into the dishwasher, a bed that won’t fit up the stairs. Planning is paramount to success.
Straying from the designs
Change orders are sometimes necessary, but they can cost serious time and money. Work closely with your team upfront and think carefully about the designs before work begins; then stick to them to minimize delays and budget increases.
Investing in the wrong places
Don’t skimp on the fundamental elements of your home — the foundation, structure, insulation, etc. In fact, you might be dealing with this because the last owner didn't. If you need to cut costs, do so on things that are fairly easy to upgrade later, such as appliances and finishes. Having shoddy plumbing is worse than waiting on a luxury backsplash.
Underestimating costs
Those who don’t budget properly can run out of money and be left with an unfinished project. Be meticulous about crafting your budget, and always include a 10% to 20% buffer for unexpected costs — you can bet there will be a few.
Holding back
Do as much as possible during your first remodel to avoid expensive rework, renovation regret, and future higher prices. If you’re gutting your kitchen now, it’ll cost much less to install that island you really want versus waiting to do it in 10 years when it becomes its own project — plus you’ll get to enjoy it longer.
An excellent resource is Houzz.com's "Beginner's Guide to Home Remodeling", check it out here » https://www.houzz.com/education (https://www.houzz.com/education)
Questions? Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today »
At 615interiors, we offer both interior decorating and interior design services. While we provide guidance on floor planning and design decisions, we do not manage construction, subcontractors, or trades such as painters, carpenters, or cabinetry installers. We are not builders, architects, or engineers.
For renovation projects, we recommend working with a qualified General Contractor to oversee construction, and we’re happy to provide trusted referrals upon request.
Thinking of Managing Construction Yourself?
A new build or remodel involves countless moving parts and a wide range of specialized trades — demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, tile, cabinetry, finishing work, and more. A General Contractor typically charges at least 20% of the total project cost to coordinate, schedule, manage, and pay all subcontractors.
While it may be tempting to take on that role yourself to save money, it is truly a full-time job. Unless you have significant construction experience and ample time, the process can quickly become overwhelming. We’ve seen homeowners experience burnout, delays, and costly mistakes that require even more money to correct later. Proceed with caution.
If you need referrals, we’re happy to recommend reputable builders and contractors for your project.
Learn more about our process & rates here » (https://www.615interiors.com/services#our-approach)
Questions? Book a complimentary consult call (https://calendly.com/gwen-canfield/interior-design-consultation)with Gwen today »
What To Expect During Your Project
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