FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions. If you have additional questions feel free to contact us.

Why should I hire an interior designer and how is it different from a decorator?

An interior designer is an experienced professional who will manage your entire home project from construction and architectural drawings, all the way through the decorating process. Lauren has a master's degree in Interior Architecture and over a decade of experience working as a designer, which gives her a complete understanding of the design build process. She can effectively work with architects and builders to communicate your design intent. Not only does Lauren Miles Interior Design help select furnishings, accessories and art, we create design drawings, assist with the selection of finishes and materials, submit specifications to the builder and stay on top of critical deadlines throughout the building process. Hiring a designer will save you time, money and stress by having a point person to oversee your project and all the moving pieces, keeping all vendors informed and on task, and by preventing you from making common costly mistakes. I do this for a living; you don’t have to. 

We already have an architect and a builder, why do I need to hire a designer as well?

An interior designer is your advocate. We speak the lingo of the professionals while also having a strong understanding of you and the look and feel you want for your home. It is impossible for homeowners to be constantly onsite and available to answer important questions from builders and architects. It is the job of the interior designer to be your voice. We push back when we need to and make sure all the details are communicated in a clear and concise way to all those  involved with your project. We help avoid delays with the builder by keeping everyone well informed and on task. We help translate your vision to all involved in the construction so the final result is everything you hoped for and more.

What if I don't know my style?

That is ok! We will work together to help you find your style and what that looks like.  We ask lots of questions and spend a lot of time listening to how you plan to live in your home. We will introduce you to a number of styles, products and fabrics, and show you imagery to help you find what feels right to you. Then we take that understanding and help curate a space that feels authentic and true to you, your family and your lifestyle. 

What does “full service” mean and why would I want that?

Full services includes a construction component where we manage everything related to building and designing your home, in addition to decorating it. We have experience in every step of the process from reviewing and drafting drawings, to the selection and specification of materials and finishes, to onsite meetings and walkthroughs. The decorative element includes sourcing, selecting and installing furnishings, window treatments, lighting, rugs and artwork. By having someone oversee a project from start to finish, you can feel confident your vision is carried out at every step of the process and no detail is overlooked. We have your best interests in mind throughout the process and make sure it is executed to our high standards.

I want to make some updates to my home but have existing furniture I would like to use, are you willing to help me work with what I have?

Yes! We are more than happy to help give your room a refresh without discarding all your existing pieces. We will help determine the furnishings that can be re-purposed and those that may need to be replaced. Reupholstering a well worn piece, modifying a dated window treatment or changing out a once trendy paint color can make a dramatic difference. We will recommend the changes to make as well as introduce you to new items that will help you achieve the updated look you are going for. 

Do you travel and how far?

Yes, we are willing to travel.  We are based in Burlington, Vermont but we have worked on projects throughout New England and across the country. At Lauren Miles Interior Design, we pride ourselves on our exceptional attention to detail, communication and organizational skills, which allows us to easily plan and coordinate jobs outside of our home state. To be fair to our clients, we do only take on a limited number of projects that require extended travel but we would love to hear more about your project, whether it is near or far!

What makes Lauren Miles Interior Design different from other designers in the area? 

Lauren is a professional Interior Designer with a masters degree in Interior Architecture. She is nationally published with experience working on projects from Coast to Coast at a very high level of design. At LMID, this experience has given us the training and tools to manage and design a project of any size while remaining creative, detail oriented, and organized. We are known for our ability to tailor each project to be unique to our clients, their needs, tastes and lifestyle.