questions & answers - Interior Design

We are a relationship-based company, providing personal attention and consistent, quality service. This may be your first experience with a designer and we pride ourselves in our ability to guide you through the process, building your confidence in us and the experience. 

The project:

Our strong organizational skills and efficient time management affords us the ability to manage a range of projects, small to large scale. If you're looking for a few signature pieces, a fresh color palette, a one room or whole house design, we offer a variety of services to meet your needs. Our founder's experience with high profile clientele and custom interior design has led to many successful projects, from one room refreshers to the grand Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel in Montecito, CA. 

The aesthetic:

Carefully selected furnishings, layers of textures, and a refined color palette create depth and warmth. It's all about the details and balance. We create a personalized, cohesive, and clean aesthetic for a timeless style that evolves and grows with you.  The ARIS REY ELLE signature is an effortless style curated for leisurely living, laid-back get-togethers, and a life well-lived. 

Some clients only need pictures and fabrics laid out casually, others may need a vision board or digital images. Of course, we always pursue the most cost-effective way to translate ideas, but it really depends on the client and the scope of the project. What matters most is that we understand each other and can effectively communicate to achieve the best results. Our clients appreciate good design, are open to new ideas, trust our judgment, and communicate their thoughts.  

Our signature process works like this:

• Introduction – We meet to discuss the scope of the project, timeline, budget, and fee structure. We review any inspirational images from the client and identify the their needs. 
• Proposal & Letter of Agreement –We outline the project scope and fee structure. Once signed and a retainer received, we proceed.
• Site Measure & Pictures – We will schedule a time to visit the property to take pictures, for reference, and measure the space. At this time we will take inventory of existing furniture. 
• Inspiration – We create a conceptual vision and overall design direction of the project. This is inspiration only and is used as a tool for discussion and selection of real materials and furnishings. Together we review the design inspiration, make adjustments, if needed, and go over any additional ideas for the final presentation.
• Design – We will present fully developed working drawings, color schemes, materials, furniture, fabrics, and pricing for approval. Sometimes this will be in phases depending on the scope of the project. If any revisions are necessary they’re shown in a follow-up presentation for approval.
• Procurement – Once the final design is approved, we will send invoices or deposit requests for required payment on approved items. Orders are not placed unless approved by you and payment is received. We accept credit cards and checks. If paying by credit card a 3% processing fee will be applied. There is no fee for paying by check.
• Project Management – We collaborate with the architect, builder, and tradesmen to ensure all factors of the design plan are accomplished.  We place orders, meet with workrooms, assess lead times, note any delays, and proceed according to the timeline. If re-selects are required we will present new selections for approval. We track all orders, schedule and manage all deliveries. Storage is available through a white glove receiver.
• Installation – Depending on the scope of the project, we will spend 1-3 days installing art, furnishings, and accessories in your home. Gathering art and accessories usually takes a little more time and a follow-up installation may be necessary. 
• The Reveal – We welcome you to your new home. 
• Photo Shoot  

Communication and project management are key essentials in the design business. We are detail oriented and solution driven. There are hundreds, even thousands, of components on each project. We effectively communicate information to, from and between clients, vendors and staff. We rely on, and work closely with, our showrooms and artisans to convey our vision. If an issue arises we resolve it through communication, respect, and trust.   

We prefer to meet with our client and review their project before discussing fees. The scope of every project is unique, we want to ensure we can meet the needs within the budget and accommodate the timeline.