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INVESTMENT GUIDE
U N D E R S T A N D I N G Y O U R F I N A N C I A L I N V E S T M E N T
Welcome!
We are thrilled to have you join us on a journey of our streamlined, efficient, and fun services! We are a full-service interior design firm where we specialize in new builds, remodels+renovations, and full-room furnishings. This guide is meant to set a realistic expectation on the financial investment it takes to achieve the looks you see on our site.
Why hire a designer?
Hiring an interior designer means accessing expert guidance, creativity, and resources that will elevate your space's functionality, aesthetics, and value. From meticulous space planning to crafting perfect color schemes, we bring professional expertise to ensure a cohesive and personalized result that truly reflects your unique style and needs.
What we offer...
Our tailored service ensures a stress-free, impeccably designed new build or renovation from start to finish. Collaborating closely with architects, builders, and contractors, from initial concepts to overseeing construction, our skilled team manages every interior detail, creating the perfect ambiance for your new home. Oh yeah, and we hold your hand through the entire process! :)

""My husband and I initially tried to decorate and pick furniture ourselves for our new home without any success. We decided to work with DuVäl and his team. This was the best decision we made. DuVäl listens to his clients and helps them execute their ideas. Him and his team are so creative, professional and knowledgeable. We are so happy with our home's new look. We highly recommended them." - Dr. Carol M.

What most clients want to know...

Will DuVäl be on my project?
Absolutely! DuVäl is deeply involved in every aspect of our design projects, working closely with our dedicated team to bring your vision to life. You will have direct access to him via email, phone calls, or text messages throughout the entire project. We begin by thoroughly understanding your needs and preferences, collaborating closely with you and incorporating feedback to ensure the project aligns seamlessly with your style.
How does this work?
It's honestly very simple. We use a three-phase, seven-step process, from design discovery all the way through a project reveal (just like you see on HGTV!). We work for/with you to create concepts, our team will do all the sourcing and purchasing, and then the installation. But for a clearer understanding of each step, take a look at our General Overview here.
Am I the right fit for your company?
Our interior design firm caters to discerning clients who are working professionals with busy schedules. Most of our clients are corporate attorneys, although we work with all professions. They value their time and seek a partner who can expertly manage their design projects from start to finish. These clients understand the value of delegating the intricate details of design and project management to professionals, allowing them to focus on their careers and personal lives while enjoying the transformation of their spaces.
How much will this cost?
In our experience, one of the primary concerns clients have is understanding the costs involved in their project. Mental preparation for these rates is just as crucial as budget allocation. We believe in transparency and value straightforward communication, so let's get into our three (3) different estimated pricing structures...
Investment for Whole Home
Furnishings & Design
Correctly estimating a whole home interior design project is challenging without a comprehensive understanding of all elements involved. Factors such as the scope of work, materials and finishes, customization, vendor costs, project timeline, and client preferences greatly impact the overall cost. Customization, bespoke elements, and changes during the design process can also influence pricing. Therefore, a detailed understanding of all of this is crucial for providing realistic cost estimates that align with the desired outcomes and budget constraints.
However, in hopes to give you a sense of your possible investment, we have provided three (3) rates that can be used to roughly estimate the furnishings and design budget, based on the square footage of your home. These do not include any building materials or construction costs.
To achieve the look that you see on our site, please consider:
EXAMPLE: To complete a home that is 3000 sqft, our recommended starting investment ($85/sqft) would be around $255,000. And it would be $127,500 to complete half of the home. This total includes a full-service interior design project and installation--all layouts, furnishings, accessories, window treatments, all main areas, secondary bedrooms, utility spaces, and hallways. Costs do not include renovations.
$85 per sqft
READY-TO-WEAR
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Standard design concepts and layouts.
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Standard material selections and finishes.
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Standard furniture options from readily available sources.
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Minimal customization on furnishings.
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May or may not include wallpaper.
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Includes window treatments + accessories.
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Luxury project management service and installation.
$145 per sqft
BESPOKE
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Enhanced design concepts with more creativity and customization.
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Upgraded material selections and finishes, including mid-range options.
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Possible architectural changes/additions.
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Some custom furniture pieces or modifications.
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Moderate level of detail and design intricacies, with possible built-ins.
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Includes wallpaper & installation.
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Includes window treatments + accessories.
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Luxury project management service.
$265+ per sqft
HAUTE COUTURE
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Premium design concepts with high levels of creativity and customization.
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High-quality material selections and finishes, including luxury options.
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Architectural changes+additions.
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Custom furniture pieces.
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Includes additional custom built-ins.
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High level of detail, intricate designs, and specialized techniques.
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Includes wallpaper + installation.
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Layered window treatments
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Luxury project management service.
Investment Per Room
The pricing model for single rooms will come with a separate cost per square foot. These numbers are typically higher than entire home rates due to cost averages. To complete a hallway, powder room, or even kitchen furnishings, is much lower than a standard room.
Our clients typically have furnishing budgets beginning at $35,000 and renovations/construction budgets beginning at $250,000.
To achieve the look that you see on our site, please consider:
EXAMPLE: To complete a room that is 12ft x 12ft (144 sqft), our recommended starting investment ($175/sqft) would be around $25,200.
This total includes a full-service interior design project and installation--all layouts, furnishings, accessories, and window treatments.
$175 per sqft
READY-TO-WEAR
-
Standard design concepts and layouts.
-
Standard material selections and finishes.
-
Standard furniture options from readily available sources.
-
Minimal customization on furnishings.
-
May or may not include wallpaper.
-
Includes window treatments + accessories.
-
Luxury project management service and installation.
$305 per sqft
BESPOKE
-
Enhanced design concepts with more creativity and customization.
-
Upgraded material selections and finishes, including mid-range options.
-
Possible architectural changes/additions.
-
Some custom furniture pieces or modifications.
-
Moderate level of detail and design intricacies, with possible built-ins.
-
Includes wallpaper & installation.
-
Includes window treatments + accessories.
-
Luxury project management service.
$635 per sqft
HAUTE COUTURE
-
Premium design concepts with high levels of creativity and customization.
-
High-quality material selections and finishes, including luxury options.
-
Architectural changes+additions.
-
Custom furniture pieces.
-
Includes additional custom built-ins.
-
High level of detail, intricate designs, and specialized techniques.
-
Includes wallpaper + installation.
-
Layered window treatments
-
Luxury project management service.
Full-Service Design Fees
Many clients overlook the fact that the captivating designs they admire are not solely the result of furniture choices. Rather, it's the imaginative expertise behind each selection, the creative genius behind each color combination, the masterful placement of texture, and other innovative elements that truly elevate a space. This is why the investment in design fees are critical.
You can put beautiful furniture in a room but it is the artful balance created by an expert design team that truly optimizes your investment.
Because no project or client is the same, we do not offer a flat rate for designs--we bill hourly. Our rates slide from $125/hr to $325/hr depending on which professional is handling the task. However, after many years and projects under our belt, we found that most project design fees, administration and procurement fees, will end around 20-30% of the furnishings+design budget.
~ 20% Design Fee
Our standard interior design fee for furniture budgets is typically around 15-20% of the total budget, calculated based on an hourly rate. This fee covers the time and expertise required for standard design services, including initial consultations, concept development, sourcing, procurement, coordination, installation, and project management.
~ 30% Design Fee
However, in some cases, clients may require additional services or more extensive involvement from our design team. This can result in a higher level of customization, premium vendor sourcing, complex logistics management, hands-on installation, and concierge-level project management. As a result, the fee for these projects may increase to around 25-30% of the overall budget by the end of monthly invoicing, reflecting the extra time and resources dedicated to meeting the client's specific needs and delivering exceptional results
EXAMPLE: To complete a room that is 12ft x 12ft (144 sqft), our recommended starting investment (20%) would be around $5,760.
For projects where we are more involved (30%), the design fee could total $8,640.
For homes that are READY-TO-WEAR ($85/sqft), and around 3000sqft, the design investment (15%) could start around $51,000.
For projects where we are more involved (30%), the rates could end around $76,500.
New Build Selections Costs
We offer a separate rate for all new builds. Our fees for home selections range between $12-15/sqft, for the entire home, under $3mil,
We have a minimum project investment of $30,000. Design fees will include standard furniture layouts but will not offer suggestions/recommendations on furnishings. Here are all of the areas we manage:
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Plan Changes: working with the architects and builders directly to review of architectural
plans, built-ins, doorways, layouts, arches, fireplace interior, lighting, outlets, tvs, wooden
beams, etc. -
Plumbing Fixtures: type, finish, quantity, jets, sinks, etc.
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Flooring: coordinate finish w/ stair manufacturer, considerations for treads, risers, etc.
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Appliances: will review standard packages provided by architect/builder/developer.
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Cabinets: final layout needed for locations of sinks/electric, as well as color/finish/style.
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Cabinet Hardware: this includes options for kitchen, bathroom, mudroom hooks, etc.
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Interior Doors: style, hinge color, as well as the interior garage doors to match.
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Exterior paint colors and materials – suggestions only.
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Light Fixtures: entrance, dining, kitchen, vanities, under stair, under-cabinet, etc.
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Tile, Carpet, LVT: full selections, designs, locations.
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Countertops: for vanities, kitchen/island, bars, and styles of sinks.
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Stair Railing: handrails, balusters, stain matching, etc.
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Interior Trim: offer pictures and drawings, schedule time to meet millworkers on-site.
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Fireplace Mantle: provide photo/drawing, including dimensions, layouts.
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Wood Floor Stain: make final selection on finish.
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Interior Paint Colors: walls, doors, trim, accents -- stick with 3-4 main colors.
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Exterior/Interior Door Hardware: finish, hinges
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Mirrors: can order or can design for millworker
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Bathroom Accessories: identify locations, quantities, finishes, etc.
EXAMPLE: If you are building a home that is 3000sqft, our selections fee will start around $36,000.


What do design fees actually entail?
Here are just a few of the things our team will be be working on...
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Initial Consultation and Needs Assessment:
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Discuss client's goals, preferences, and budget.
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Evaluate space for design challenges and opportunities.
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Concept Development:
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Create visual design concepts and present to the client.
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Space Planning and Layout Design:
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Develop optimized floor plans and furniture placement.
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Material Selection and Finishes:
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Source materials, provide samples, and recommend finishes.
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Furniture and Fixture Selection:
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Curate furniture and decor items aligned with the design concept.
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Customization and Bespoke Design:
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Design custom elements and collaborate with suppliers.
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Color Coordination and Styling:
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Enhance aesthetics with paint colors, wallpapers, and accessories.
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Floor Plans and Drawings:
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Create detailed layouts with dimensions and annotations.
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Procurement and Expediting:
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Initial RFQs, purchasing, processing damages, replacements, etc.
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Project Management and Coordination:
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Create timelines, coordinate implementation, and oversee procurement and construction.
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Client Communication and Collaboration:
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Maintain open communication, incorporate feedback, and provide updates.
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Documentation and Follow-Up:
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Prepare documentation, assist with post-project follow-up, and ensure client satisfaction.
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Here are the General Timelines
Our projects are guided by our three-phase, seven-step process.

PHASE ONE: (2-3 weeks)
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STEP 1 - Onboarding: collecting the questionnaire, administering Feasibility Study, contracts & deposits
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STEP 2 - Trade Day: on-site measurements, photos, and final criteria meeting
PHASE TWO: (8-10 weeks)
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STEP 3 - Concept Development: gathering inspiration, creating our initial drawings, and conceptualizing
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STEP 4 - Design Development: creating formal drawings, obtaining quotes/budgets, sourcing materials, and first presentation
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STEP 5 - Final Designs: updating design files, making final selections, firming budget and labor costs, and final presentation
PHASE THREE: (2-12+ months)
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STEP 6 - Procurement / Expediting: creating and distributing orders, product confirmations, reselections, etc.
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STEP 7 - Installation: preparing, delivering, and installing products, closing project
Project timelines can and will be affected by clients' decision-making process,
along with total revisions and amendments to proposals.

Why choose DuVäl Design?
Our clients reach out to us, not only for beautifully designed spaces, but mainly for our streamlined approach to renovations and/or new home design/build projects. We make the journey easy by our convenient, uncomplicated approach. As you can probably see by now, we have thorough processes in place, to effortlessly guide you through this arduous adventure. We have crafted our process so that you're not lost, confused, or feeling like the project is out of your control.
We help you avoid pitfalls, reduce your stress, bypass design inconsistencies or underutilized spaces, all while making sure you're having fun!
One additional thing that separates our firm is that, not only have we been able to produce astonishing results from client to client, but we have already been vetted by all major shelter magazines. These honors help to validate our firm's expertise, confirm that we are influencing design trends, and that we are voice within our design community and industry.
Additionally, these types of recognitions open doors to networking, collaborations, and enhances our firm's reach as it pertains to products, innovative design solutions, and so much more!
Here are just a few of the magazines that have included our firm:
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Architectural Digest
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House Beautiful
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Veranda
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The New York Times
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Home & Design Magazine
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The Washington Post
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Ell Decor
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Luxe Magazine
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Modern Luxury
In addition to this, here are a few other accolades we are proud to mention:
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House Beautiful Next Wave 2023 - House Beautiful
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"13 Black Designers You Need to Know" - Architectural Digest
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"Hot Talent" - Home & Design Magazine
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"The One to Watch" - Modern Luxury Magazine
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"People to Watch" - Designer's Today
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"Style Spotter 2022" - High Point Market & Studio Designer

Through our comprehensive project management and attention to detail, you will gain peace of mind about compliance errors, time mismanagement, and overall design coordination. Our partnership will deliver a transformed space reflecting your style and enhance your property’s value and lifestyle.
Come meet your new team!
As in all things in life, no one person can create magic alone.
So, we would like to introduce you to the amazing talent who would be on your project.




DuVäl
Lead Designer, setting the creative vision and tone for all projects, managing company brand and direction.
Tristan
Managing the communication between the office and trades-people, managing product inventory and installations.
Andrés
Resident architect and technical draftsman for all projects, using software programs to draw and communicate ideas.
Erin
Designer, assisting in concepts, materials selections, furniture and fabric selections, space planning, & more!




Katie
Responsible for all procurement processes, managing vendor accounts, and specializing in product knowledge.
Sara
Cabinetry expert, assisting in the design, ordering, and securing of custom cabinets, built-ins, and vanities.
Markus
Photographer and videographer for all DDLLC branded content. Responsible for final shots of completed homes.
Queso
Company mascot making sure to vet each office guest, to sit on laps and require attention, providing distractions throughout the day!
"While I may be the face of this company, nothing can be done without the talent, the genius, and the hard work of a team offering unconditional support. My clients and I are so lucky to have them on this journey!" - DuVäl

What are the Next Steps?
Simply let us know your preferred investment level, taking into account factors such as room size, scale, furniture needs, existing furniture, etc. It's important to note that these investment levels are flexible and can be adjusted as needed.
Having this information allows us to align our services with feasible recommendations, ensure that we source furniture and materials from appropriate vendors, tailor our design concepts to achievable goals, and allocate our resources effectively.
Once this is received, our Project Coordinator will reach out with our design proposals.
Let's get started...
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Based near WASHINGTON DC (DMV) | Servicing all of the EAST COAST