Interior Design FAQs
What to Expect When Working with an Interior Designer: FAQs Answered
Hiring an interior designer is a meaningful step toward creating a home that reflects who you are and how you live. Whether you're renovating a single room, or designing an entire home, it's natural to have questions. At Barbara Nyke Interior Design, we work closely with homeowners in the Greater Toronto Area to guide them through every step with creativity, clarity, and calm.
Here are the most common questions clients ask us — and our expert answers.
1. What should I expect during an interior design consultation?
During our initial consultation, we walk through your space—virtually or in person—and discuss your vision, needs, style preferences, timeline, and budget. We assess your layout, lighting, functionality, and the challenges you're facing. This is a collaborative session where you can ask questions, share inspiration, and gain clarity. Afterward, you’ll have a roadmap of how we can move forward together.
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2. How long does a typical interior design project take?
Project timelines vary based on scope. A single-room furnishing project might take
2 - 5 months, while full-home renovations or new builds can take six months to a year or more. After your consultation, we provide a personalized project schedule and manage everything from planning through execution, so your experience feels seamless.
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3. Do I need to know my style before hiring a designer?
Not at all. Helping you uncover and define your style is one of our strengths. Through conversation, mood boards, and curated visuals, we’ll discover what resonates with you and develop a cohesive aesthetic that feels like home—refined, functional, and uniquely yours.
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4. Can we use items I already own in the new design?
Yes, and we welcome it. Whether it's an heirloom chair, a beloved piece of art, or something sentimental, we’ll thoughtfully incorporate existing pieces into your new space to ensure it reflects your personality while achieving balance and beauty.
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5. What’s your fee structure?
We offer flat-rate design consultations and customized pricing for full-service design projects. All fees are discussed upfront, with clarity and transparency.
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6. Do you offer virtual interior design services?
Yes, we do. Our virtual design packages are ideal for clients outside the Toronto area, or those seeking design direction remotely. You’ll receive mood boards, floor plans, curated furnishings, and implementation guidance—all delivered digitally and tailored to your space.
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7. How involved do I need to be in the design process?
It’s entirely up to you. Some clients enjoy being hands-on throughout the journey, while others prefer to step back and let us handle the details. We tailor our process based on your preferences to make the experience enjoyable and stress-free.
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8. Do you manage renovations, or just the furnishings?
We do both. Whether it’s selecting finishes and overseeing a full renovation, or designing a space with custom furnishings and lighting, we provide comprehensive interior design services. We also collaborate with trusted contractors and trades to ensure a polished, high-end result.
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9. Why should I hire an interior designer instead of doing it myself?
A professional designer brings experience, efficiency, and a trained eye to your project. We help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure every detail works cohesively, and deliver a tailored result that’s elevated, functional, and lasting. The end result? A space that looks beautiful—and lives even better.
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10. Will I be involved in the design decisions?
Absolutely. Our design process is collaborative from start to finish. We listen to your ideas, present options that align with your style and needs, and you have the final say on every key decision, from finishes to furnishings.
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11. What areas do you serve, and do you work outside the Greater Toronto Area?
We’re based in Scarborough, Ontario, and serve clients across the Greater Toronto Area, including North York, Markham, and nearby neighborhoods. For long-distance projects, our virtual design services make collaboration easy.
