Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What is the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator?    Interior Designers and Decorators are terms often used interchangeably by the public. There is a difference however. Beautiful rooms are created by individuals in both categories. Interior Designers are people who have been trained to create beautiful spaces, assessing use, function, and safety. They use specialized knowledge of design, materials, furniture, equipment, construction, and fixtures to design both residential and commercial spaces. These persons also have technical or college training in their industry usually involving a degree. Interior Decorator is the term generally used in referring to an individual with a flair for decorating. Often these persons do not have formal training, but can create beautiful designs using their innate talent and experience in decorating. 2. Did you, Kristine Robinson, have to go to school to be an interior designer?   Yes. Kristine attended Gwinnett Technical College in Lawrenceville, GA where she obtained her diploma in interior design with top honors. In addition to her initial design training, Kristine boasts over 13 years experience in the design industry. She is continually honing her skill, by attending conferences, lectures, and symposiums while at the same time choosing to mentor and teach others the exciting craft of interior design! Kristine's classes and lectures can be seen at both the local (the Interior Design Program at Temple University) and the national level, where she speaks at trade conferences across the United States. 3. How Do you charge for your services? (See services)    Each designer determines their own formula of how they will charge for their services and products. Fees do vary locally and between different designers. Robinson Interiors uses a combination of the methods outlined below.    Hourly Rate--Fees are charged for time the designer will spend working with the client and for doing the research necessary to design the project. Design fees are for services only and do not include products such as furniture, labor, fabrics, etc.    Percentage Above Cost or Cost Plus--In effect, the designer receives a commission for the products sold to you. Kristine purchases the items at wholesale or with a "designer discount." Ms. Robinson then sells the item to you at a percentage above the cost of the item. Generally this saves the client a significant amount of money off the retail price.    Daily Rate--If you are hiring Robinson Interiors at Sycamore Cottage for an out-of-town project, you may choose to work on a daily rate, instead of paying hourly. This usually works in the benefit of the client who also must pay for travel expenses involved with the project. Depending upon your project, Robinson Interiors at Sycamore Cottage may choose to work out a custom agreement with you, combining these ingredients and any other items that are unique to your situation. 4. Why should I use an interior Designer?    Using a design firm, like Robinson Interiors at Sycamore Cottage, can save you from making errors that cost you time and money. Kristine Robinson has a great sense of people and communication skills. She often helps resolve decorating disputes between family members. Ms. Robinson is frequently called in to a home just to rearrange existing furniture and accessories and provide do-it-yourself tips to the homeowners. Kristine also enjoys accompanying clients when they're making selections for all areas of the home: fabric, furniture, wall coverings and accessories are some favorite reasons for personal shopping excursions. Robinson Interiors at Sycamore Cottage also has an extensive list of local contractors and artisans which may be useful within the scope of your project. 5. How should I prepare for our initial design consultation?    Be able to describe your project in detail. What rooms are included? Do you have a deadline? What are your goals for the project? Be ready with any questions regarding fees and services. Kristine will be bringing a letter of agreement for you to sign at your convenience. you may be asked to pay a modest retainer fee based upon the scope of your project. Retainer fees are always applied to future hourly billing.    Don't be afraid to inform Kristine of any budgetary requirements. Have a file of magazine clippings and other inspirational photos ready. These will help you describe the "look" you're going for. Pictures often communicate your individual style better than words. Plan to walk through your entire home with Kristine. Even the rooms you are not planning to redecorate will say a lot about your personal style (Even if it's not what you want the new spaces to look like). Inform Kristine of any items in the space that are to remain the same, whether it be an existing area rug or the light fixture that you don't wish to replace. We don't want to waste any time redesigning something that is to stay in the room. 6. Do you have access to 'trade only' show rooms and Vendors?    Yes. Robinson Interiors at Sycamore Cottage has access to many showrooms and vendors that are not available to the general public. These vendors sell to Interior Designers at a wholesale cost. Even many retail stores (such as Pier 1 Imports) extend "Designer Discounts", which can save you money. We also have an extensive list of area contractors and artisans who can be of help on your project.