Q:
I bought a chair and had it delivered. The color is completely different than what I saw in the store! What do I do?

A:
Lighting varies everywhere! Always ask for a swatch or memo sample of the fabric. Take it home and look at it in the AM and PM light. Even though most retail stores and designer showrooms use color corrected light, it still is not the same as residential lighting. Also fabric dye lots will vary. If you are inconsolable with your chair, contact the store. Any reputable retailer will gladly take care of an exchange. Please let me know how you fare.

Q:
I have beautiful antique furnishings and accessories that have been left to me. They are from many different periods, but look good with each other. How do I put them all together?

A:
You already have the answer! Since you like the way these pieces relate to each other, a unified color scheme will complete your look. This is the perfect assignment for the right designer. He or she can coordinate a myriad of ideas with fabrics, window treatments and floor plans. These solutions will pull it all together for you. Let me know what you decide.

Q:
I hear the terms designer and decorator used a lot. What’s the difference?

A:
I love this question! Interior Designers get involved with construction and decoration. Decorators work with the existing structure to adorn and unify it.

Q:
We enlisted the aid of a well respected designer to help us with our home renovation. The construction seems to be endless and the costs are 25% higher than originally agreed upon. Help!!

A:
Breathe!! Then, continue the dialog between your designer and contractor. Find out exactly why there are delays. Your designer should be able to help you here. As far as the money is concerned, no work should be commenced without agreement on price. I often tell clients: “When thinking of a budget, allow for 20-25% more money and 20-25% more time.” Things sometimes happen that are out of everyone’s control. The issue here is communication.