Recently, our team had the privilege of working with a client in Burtonsville, Maryland, on a project that began with what seemed like a request for some final, decorative touches. However, after our initial phone conversation, it became clear this would be a much more ambitious endeavor. It wasn’t just about aesthetics—the clients were after a transformative, functional redesign. They just needed the right guidance to take the plunge. Check out the finished project here!
Breaking Down the Barriers
While our clients were open to exploring possibilities, they held understandable concerns. The unknowns surrounding the cost, time, and potential disruption were understandably intimidating. Here’s where an interior designer’s role truly shines: listening not just to what clients say, but also to what they may be hesitant to articulate. Our first meeting was not about rushing into changes but about hearing the stories behind the walls they’d called home. These included tales of family heritage tied to a cherished purple dining room and a need for practical, child-friendly spaces that didn’t compromise on style.
A Functional Dream: The Design Phase
This project was a balance of honoring history, maximizing functionality, and building trust. Previously, they’d worked with a designer who, unfortunately, didn’t capture the family-centric vision they had in mind. Our job? Craft a haven that felt welcoming, not formal—a place for family connection and activity, not just for show.
The design phase can be nerve-wracking for both the designer and the client. Would the design resonate with them? Would we capture everything they needed while keeping within budget? These are the questions that come to mind when diving into a project of this scale. In this case, after multiple bids, the numbers aligned within $1,000—a rare and welcome surprise that reassured everyone involved.
Building Confidence, Step by Step in Burtonsville
From January to early September, we moved through each stage with intention:
January: Our initial meeting
March: Clients decided to proceed with the design
May: Design presentation
June: Bids and cost finalization
July: Final selections
September: Furniture installation and finishing touches
We focused on building confidence throughout, making adjustments, considering alternatives, and taking the time to get everything just right.
Design Choices: Where We Splurged and Saved
In this transformation, we balanced quality and budget thoughtfully.
Where We Splurged: Custom window treatments, tiles for the fireplace, and built-ins gave each room a unique, high-quality finish that elevated the entire home.
Hidden Gems: We chose poplar wood over maple for cabinets, with a sprayed finish, creating a luxurious look at a more affordable price. Custom lighting with wall sconces provided charm without the cost of more extensive installations. In the desk area, a painted finish replaced natural stone, achieving elegance without excess.
A 10/10 Transformation
The end result? A functional family room, a living room converted into a dual-purpose office/living space, and a home that feels like their forever place. The clients’ initial nerves gave way to excitement, and we couldn’t be happier with how it all turned out.
This project reminded us that while cost considerations are important, designing a home that exceeds expectations is possible when clients and designers work hand in hand.
If you are looking to update or remodel your home, contact us here.
