Frequently Asked Questions

Working Together FAQs

  • Discovery Call

    • Every project begins with a complimentary 15-minute discovery call. This is our chance to connect, talk through your goals, and see if we’re the right fit for each other.

    Design Consultation

    • If we’re a good match, we’ll schedule a more in-depth consultation. This is where we dive into your space, your style, and how you want your home to feel. We’ll discuss scope, budget, timeline, and what’s most important to you.

    Proposal & Agreement

    • After the consultation, you’ll receive a custom design proposal outlining services, fees, and project phases. Once approved, we’ll sign an agreement and get started.

    Concept Development

    • This is where the creative magic begins. You’ll receive mood boards, color palettes, layouts, and material suggestions. We’ll refine the concept together until it feels just right.

    Detailed Design Plan

    • Once the concept is approved, we move into detailed design. This includes floor plans, furniture selections, finishes, fixtures, and more — all customized to your space and lifestyle.

    Procurement & Project Management (Full-Service and A La Carte)

    • We handle the ordering, tracking, and coordination of all design elements, so you don’t have to worry about the details.

    Installation & Styling (Full-Service Only)

    • We bring the vision to life, down to the final styling touches. You’ll walk into a fully finished space that feels like home.

    Final Walkthrough & Support

    • We’ll do a final walkthrough to make sure everything is perfect and answer any remaining questions. Support doesn’t stop at install — we’re here to help even after the project is complete.

  • That’s entirely up to you. Some clients love being hands-on and involved in every detail, while others prefer to hand over the reins and let me take care of everything. During our consultation, we’ll talk about your preferred level of involvement so I can tailor the process to suit your needs. Either way, you’ll be kept in the loop at key milestones to ensure the design stays aligned with your vision.

  • It depends on the scope. Smaller projects like mood boards or virtual design usually take 2 to 4 weeks. Full-service projects — especially renovations or new construction — can take 3 to 6 months or more. After our consultation, I’ll give you a clear timeline tailored to your project.

  • Rather than setting strict minimums, I offer a range of design packages to fit different needs, spaces, and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a simple mood board, a virtual design solution, or full-service support for a renovation or new build, there’s a package that’s right for you.

    During our discovery call, I’ll help you choose the best option based on your goals, scope, and investment level. This way, you get exactly the right amount of support — no more, no less.

  • Yes, absolutely. A consultation is a great first step, whether you’re ready to dive into a full project or just need expert guidance to get started. During the consultation, we’ll talk through your space, your goals, and your style, and I’ll offer tailored advice you can act on right away.

    From there, you can decide if you’d like to move forward with one of my design packages — no pressure, just possibilities.

    Schedule a consultation today!

  • To make the most of our time together, it’s helpful to come prepared with:

    • Photos or a video of your space (current condition)

    • Inspiration images — Pinterest boards, Instagram saves, magazine clippings, or anything that reflects your style

    • A list of goals — what’s working, what’s not, and what you’d like to change

    • Your budget and any timelines or deadlines you’re working with

    • Any questions — bring anything you’re unsure about or curious to discuss

    • Completed design questionnaire — this helps me better understand your style, needs, and lifestyle before we meet

    Don’t stress about having everything perfect. The goal is to start the conversation and get a clear picture of your vision.

  • No problem at all — that’s exactly what I’m here for. You don’t need to know your design style before we start. Part of my process is helping you uncover what you’re naturally drawn to, even if you don’t have the words for it yet.

    Through our conversations, your completed questionnaire, and any inspiration images you share, I’ll start to see patterns and preferences that guide the design. My goal is always to create a space that feels like you, even if you’re not sure how to describe your style just yet.

Services FAQs

  • I offer several ways to work together depending on the size and scope of your project. Options include:

    • Full-Service Interior Design – comprehensive design for remodels, renovations, and new construction

    • Virtual Design – professional design guidance delivered remotely

    • Mood Boards – curated boards with up to seven selections to spark ideas and guide smaller projects

    • À La Carte Services – flexible support for one-off needs like a single room refresh, finish selections, or furniture sourcing

    • Commercial Design – tailored interiors for offices, retail, restaurants, and hospitality spaces

    No matter which service you choose, the goal is always the same: a space that feels elevated, comfortable, and uniquely yours.

  • Full-service interior design usually means the designer manages the entire project from concept to completion, rather than just giving you a few ideas or sourcing a single item. Here’s what’s typically included:

    1. Discovery & Planning

    • Initial consultation (learning your style, needs, goals, and budget)

    • Site visits and detailed measurements

    • Creating a project timeline and scope of work

    2. Design Development

    • Space planning and furniture layouts

    • Mood boards, color schemes, and concept presentations

    • Material, finishes, and fabric selections

    • Lighting and fixture plans

    • Renderings

    3. Sourcing & Procurement

    • Selection of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E)

    • Custom cabinetry or millwork design

    • Purchasing and managing vendor orders

    • Trade-only sourcing (access to showrooms)

    4. Project Management

    • Coordinating with contractors, builders, and architects

    • Overseeing deliveries, installations, and construction details

    • Problem-solving issues that arise during the project

    • Budget tracking and schedule management

    5. Final Installation & Styling

    • White-glove delivery and furniture placement

    • Art, accessories, rugs, and soft goods styling

    • Window treatments, bedding, and final details

    • Walkthrough to fine-tune everything and ensure it meets expectations

    6. Post-Project Support

    • Punch-list management (fixing last-minute details)

    • Providing care/maintenance instructions

    • Optional seasonal refreshes or ongoing design support

    In short: full-service means you hand over the reins, and the designer handles every step - from the vision to the finishing touches so you don’t have to manage the details yourself.

  • With a virtual design package, you’ll receive a professionally curated design plan you can implement at your own pace, without the full-service commitment. Typical inclusions are:

    1. Design Consultation (Remote)

    • Questionnaire and/or video call to understand your style, needs, and budget.

    • Review of your photos, measurements, and inspiration images.

    2. Customized Design Plan

    • Space plan/furniture layout tailored to your room.

    • Mood board or digital concept board showing colors, textures, and style direction.

    • Curated shopping list (retail and/or trade sources) with direct links to purchase and/or invoiced by me if sourced through a trade.

    3. Visuals & Guides

    • Styling tips, paint colors, and finish suggestions.

    • Step-by-step “how to implement” guide so you can confidently put the design together.

    The key difference - With virtual design, you handle installations and styling but you’re armed with a detailed, designer approved roadmap to make it stress-free.

  • A mood board package is a quick, creative way to define the look and feel of your space before committing to bigger design steps. It’s ideal for clients who want a clear vision, but prefer to handle sourcing and implementation themselves.

    Here’s what’s typically included:

    1. Style Discovery

    • Design questionnaire to capture your preferences, lifestyle, and goals.

    • Review of your photos, inspiration, and any existing pieces you’d like to keep.

    2. Custom Mood Board

    • A digital concept board showing your color palette, textures, finishes, and overall aesthetic.

    • Example furnishings, lighting, and accessories to illustrate the style direction.

    3. Implementation Tips

    • Guidance on how to pull the look together on your own.

    • Suggestions for layering rugs, art, or décor to finish the space.

    The key difference from Virtual Design - a mood board is all about inspiration and direction, not a full step by step plan. It helps you visualize the style and sets the foundation, while you handle execution.

  • Yes! Golden Interiors designs for both residential and commercial spaces.

    • Residential Design: From full-service home transformations to single-room refreshes, we create interiors that reflect your personal style while balancing comfort, function, and beauty.

    • Commercial Design: We also design for offices, retail, restaurants, and other business environments. Our focus is on creating branded, functional spaces that make a lasting impression—while meeting the practical needs of staff and customers. This can include space planning, furniture and fixture selections, finish palettes, and styling for a professional yet inviting atmosphere.

    Whether it’s your home or your business, we deliver thoughtful, tailored design solutions that bring your vision to life.

  • Absolutely. Not every project requires a full-service design commitment. We offer à la carte design services for clients who just need help with specific selections, such as:

    • Paint color consultations

    • Countertops, cabinetry, and tile finishes

    • Flooring, hardware, and lighting choices

    • Styling advice for rugs, art, or accessories

    These smaller projects are perfect if you’re already managing a renovation or refresh but want a designer’s trained eye to make confident, cohesive choices.

  • Yes we take care of purchasing, tracking, delivery coordination, and installation. This includes:

    • Placing and managing vendor orders

    • Coordinating with trade partners and installers

    • Overseeing deliveries and white-glove installations

    • Styling furniture, artwork, and accessories for the final reveal

Pricing & Policies FAQs

  • Every project is unique, so pricing depends on the size, scope, and service level you choose. Here’s a general overview of how our fees are structured:

    • Full-Service Design - Comprehensive projects are billed with an upfront retainer and hourly design fees, plus furnishings and materials. These projects typically vary depending on room count and complexity.

    • Virtual Design (E-Design) - We offer two flexible options:

    • Mood Board Package (Flat Rate) - A curated design board with color palette, furnishings, and styling direction—perfect if you want a clear visual guide to bring the space to life yourself.

    • Hourly Sourcing - If you already know your style but need help finding the right pieces, we can source furniture, lighting, rugs, or finishes at an hourly rate. This option gives you flexibility to use as much or as little time as you need.

    Both options are delivered remotely and tailored to your space, so you can choose the format that works best for your budget and project needs.

    • Mood Board Packages - Entry-level design direction with curated boards and inspiration, starting at $500

    • À la Carte Consultations - Perfect for smaller needs like paint colors, finishes, or styling advice, billed hourly or per consultation.

    We’ll always review your goals and budget during the initial consultation so you know what to expect before moving forward.

  • No. The consultation is a standalone professional service and is required before beginning any in-person design project. During our meeting, we’ll evaluate your space, discuss your goals and budget, and gather the information needed to develop a customized proposal. If you choose to move forward, your project will proceed under a separate design agreement.

  • Golden Interiors has established relationships with trusted vendors and access to exclusive trade resources not available to the general public.

    Rather than focusing on discounts alone, our clients benefit from professional sourcing, access to trade-only furnishings, vendor relationships, procurement management, and a carefully curated selection process.

    Trade discounts are an established part of our business model and help support the professional procurement services we provide. Every selection is made based on what is best for your project, with quality, functionality, and your overall design vision always taking priority.

    Our goal is to deliver exceptional value through expertise, exclusive resources, and a seamless purchasing experience.

  • Yes. All design services are paid in advance to reserve your project on our calendar and allow us to dedicate the necessary time to your design.

    • Design Services – Design fees are due before work begins. Once payment is received, your project is scheduled and design work can begin.

    • Procurement – Furnishings, materials, and décor are invoiced and paid in full before orders are placed with our vendors.

    • Consultations – In-home consultations and virtual design services are paid at the time of booking.

    This payment structure allows us to dedicate our full attention to your project, maintain project timelines, and provide a seamless design experience.

  • There are no recurring hourly invoices for your design fee. Your design services are paid upfront before work begins. If additional services are requested outside the original scope of work, they will be quoted and approved before any additional work is performed.

    Procurement invoices are issued as furnishings, materials, and décor are approved for purchase and must be paid in full before orders are placed.

Design Approach
& Philosophy
FAQs

  • Absolutely! We encourage blending your favorite existing pieces with new selections. During the consultation and design phase, we’ll review what you already own and decide together what should stay, what can be repurposed, and where fresh updates will make the most impact.

    • Sentimental or investment pieces can often be highlighted as focal points.

    • Foundational items (like sofas, dining tables, or beds) can be styled with new textiles, rugs, or accessories for a refreshed look.

    • We’ll suggest replacements only when something no longer fits the scale, function, or aesthetic of your updated design.

    This approach allows you to keep what you love while still achieving a polished, cohesive design.

  • Definitely. We love incorporating meaningful furniture and heirloom pieces into our designs. These items often add character, warmth, and a sense of personal history that make your space truly unique.

    • Assessment - We’ll review the piece to ensure it fits the scale, condition, and function of the space.

    • Integration - The design plan is then built around your heirloom piece so it feels intentional and seamlessly blended.

    • Refresh Options - If appropriate, we can suggest refinishing, reupholstery, or creative styling to give the piece new life while preserving its sentimental value.

    Your story matters, and we believe the best designs mix fresh elements with meaningful items you already treasure.

  • Golden Interiors is built on the belief that great design should feel both high-style and deeply personal. Our approach combines creativity with practicality so your space looks beautiful and works for the way you live or run your business.

    Here’s what sets us apart:

    • Personalized Comfort - We don’t design “cookie-cutter” spaces. Every project is tailored to your lifestyle, routines, and the pieces that matter most to you.

    • Local Expertise - As a Charlotte-based firm, we have strong relationships with local vendors, trades, and showrooms—giving you insider access and smooth project execution.

    • Dual Perspective - With a background in both design and insurance, Cristy brings a unique eye for style and functionality, while also understanding risk, investment, and long-term value in the choices you make for your home or business.

    • Flexible Services - From full-service design to virtual packages, mood boards, and à la carte consultations, we meet you where you are—whether you want a complete transformation or just need help choosing finishes.

    • Detail Driven Process - We handle the behind-the-scenes management (sourcing, ordering, scheduling, installation) so you can enjoy the process stress-free.

    At Golden Interiors, it’s never just about creating a pretty room—it’s about designing a space that feels like you.

  • At Golden Interiors, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all aesthetic. Instead, we specialize in creating spaces that blend timeless style with personalized comfort.

    Our portfolio includes a range of styles, often influenced by our clients:

    • Modern Classic & Transitional – balancing clean lines with warmth and elegance.

    • Contemporary & Luxe Comfort – sleek, stylish designs layered with inviting textures.

    • Southern Inspired & Traditional Updates – nods to timeless architecture with a fresh, livable feel.

    • Custom Blends – many of our projects mix heirloom or existing pieces with new selections for a space that feels curated and unique to you.

    Rather than sticking to one “signature look,” our specialty is listening to your vision and translating it into a cohesive design that feels like home (or in commercial projects, like your brand).

  • One of the biggest myths is that interior design is only for the wealthy or for “picture-perfect” homes.

    The truth? Good design is about function as much as beauty. It’s about creating spaces that work for your lifestyle, reflect your personality, and make everyday living more enjoyable. Thoughtful design can actually save you money by preventing costly mistakes (like the wrong size sofa or a finish that doesn’t last).

    At Golden Interiors, we believe design should feel approachable, not intimidating. Whether it’s a full home renovation, a single mood board, or just help picking paint colors, everyone deserves a space that feels both stylish and comfortable.

Collaboration
FAQs

  • Absolutely. Collaboration is a key part of our process. We frequently partner with contractors, builders, and architects to ensure that design and construction align seamlessly.

    • For Renovations & New Builds - We provide detailed plans, finish selections, and design guidance that support your contractor’s work and help avoid costly changes mid-project.

    • Communication - We act as the bridge between you and your builder, making sure design details are executed correctly and on schedule.

    • Trade Relationships - In addition to your own builder or contractor, we also work with trusted local trades and vendors we can recommend based on your project’s needs.

    The result is a smoother process, fewer surprises, and a finished space that looks and functions exactly as planned.

  • Yes, absolutely. If you already have a contractor or architect in place, we’re happy to collaborate with them. Our role is to bring the design vision, material selections, and styling expertise to the table, while ensuring everything integrates smoothly with the construction process.

    • Seamless Coordination - We’ll communicate directly with your contractor or architect to make sure the design intent is clear and accurately executed.

    • Design Support - From reviewing plans to suggesting adjustments, we help ensure the finished space aligns with both function and aesthetics.

    • Shared Goal - Whether it’s your team, ours, or a mix of both, the goal is always the same—a beautifully designed space that works for your lifestyle or brand.

  • Yes! While Golden Interiors is based in the Charlotte area, we do accept projects outside the region.

    Full Service Design - We’re happy to travel for larger residential or commercial projects. Travel fees may apply depending on distance and scope.

    Virtual Design - For clients outside the Charlotte area, our virtual packages are a great option. You’ll receive the same professional design direction—delivered digitally—with a clear roadmap to bring your space to life.

    Hybrid Approach - For some projects, we combine virtual planning with one or two in-person visits, giving you the best of both worlds.

    If you’re outside Charlotte and interested in working with us, let’s discuss your project details and find the right fit.

  • Yes! Golden Interiors offers Virtual Design Packages that allow us to work with clients anywhere in the U.S. (and beyond).

    • How It Works - You’ll provide photos, measurements, and inspiration, and we’ll create a customized design plan tailored to your space.

    • What You Receive - A mood board or concept board, furniture layout, curated shopping list with hourly sourcing package, and styling tips to help you pull it all together.

    • Flexibility - You can choose between a flat-rate package (complete mood board plan) or hourly sourcing if you’d like ongoing support.

    This option is perfect for clients outside our local Charlotte area who still want professional design guidance delivered remotely.

A La Carte FAQs

  • Below are just a few of the many ways you can use à la carte design support.

    • Color palette selection (paint, finishes, fabrics)

    • Space planning / furniture layout (floor plans, traffic flow)

    • Lighting plan guidance (fixtures, placement, layering)

    • Window treatment selection (shades, drapery, hardware)

    • Personal shopping trips (sourcing furniture, art, or accessories)

    • Material & finish selection (tile, countertops, flooring)

    • Artwork & accessory styling (finishing touches for shelves, tables, mantels)

    • Seasonal décor styling (holiday, staging for an event, etc.)

    • Home staging consultation (prep for sale or Airbnb photos)

    • One-room refresh (just updating paint, lighting, or accessories)

    • Renovation finish selections (cabinet hardware, faucets, backsplashes)

    • Accessorizing + styling day (designer comes in just to style shelves, sofas, etc.)

    • Art hanging & wall gallery curation

  • No. That is the beauty of à la carte design. These services are meant to be flexible and accessible, whether you’re tackling one small project or just need guidance in a specific area. You only pay for the service(s) you choose, and there’s no overall project minimum. That said, if you’re planning to purchase furniture, materials, or finishes, we’ll always recommend a realistic spending range to ensure the end result aligns with your vision and goals.

  • À La Carte Design Services – The initial consultation is $500 for up to two hours. Additional design time beyond the initial two hours is billed at $150 per hour and invoiced as needed.

  • Yes. I will personally source and shop for furniture, lighting, artwork, and accessories to complete your space. All purchases are made through me, which allows me to manage the ordering process, track deliveries, and ensure everything arrives as expected. This also gives you access to trade-only vendors. Shopping and purchasing time is billed at my hourly rate.

  • Absolutely. I offer stand-alone consultations for things like paint colors, wallpaper, and other finish selections. Whether you need help narrowing down options or creating a cohesive palette for your home, I can provide professional guidance without requiring a full design package. These services are billed at my hourly rate.

  • À la carte design is focused, flexible, and task-specific. Instead of managing the entire project from start to finish, I step in to help with the pieces you choose—whether that’s selecting paint colors, planning a furniture layout, or sourcing a few key items. You stay in charge of implementation and project management, while I provide professional guidance and expertise where you need it most.

    Full-service design, on the other hand, is a comprehensive approach. I handle the entire process from concept to installation, including design development, sourcing, purchasing, project coordination, and styling. This option is ideal for clients who want a turnkey experience with every detail managed.

  • Yes. Many clients begin with à la carte services to address a specific need or try out the design process before committing to a larger project. If you decide to expand into full-service design, the work we’ve already done together can serve as the foundation for the larger project.

Commercial
FAQs

  • I offer a wide range of commercial spaces including offices, restaurants, cafés, retail shops, boutique hotels, and short-term rentals like Airbnbs. Each space is tailored to reflect your brand identity while staying functional for everyday use. I also focus on specifying high-quality furnishings and finishes that are appropriate for the environment. For example, durable seating for restaurants, high-traffic fabrics for hotels and rentals, or hardworking finishes that hold up in office settings. My goal is to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also perform well for the people who use them every day.

  • Commercial design focuses on creating spaces that serve a business purpose, whether that’s welcoming clients, hosting guests, or supporting employees. These projects emphasize durability, safety, and brand identity, with furnishings and finishes chosen to handle higher traffic and heavier use.

    Residential design, on the other hand, is centered on personal style and comfort. It’s about making a home feel beautiful, functional, and reflective of the people who live there. While both types of design require creativity and attention to detail, commercial spaces must balance aesthetics with codes, regulations, and long-term performance, whereas residential spaces prioritize lifestyle and individual preferences.

  • Yes. I team up with builders and contractors to make sure the design and construction work hand in hand. This helps the process run smoothly and ensures the finished space looks beautiful and functions just the way it should.

  • Absolutely. I specialize in weaving your brand identity into the design so the space feels like a true extension of your business. That might include using your logo colors as accents, selecting finishes and furnishings that reflect your brand personality, or designing custom elements such as signage, wall graphics, and feature displays. The result is a space that not only looks cohesive but also reinforces your brand at every touchpoint for clients, customers, or guests.

  • Golden Interiors provides design administration rather than construction project management.

    Throughout the project, we collaborate with your contractor, builder, architect, and vendors to ensure the design intent is clearly communicated and implemented as planned. We remain available to answer design questions, review selections, and provide guidance as needed.

    If installation coordination is included in your project scope, we’ll also oversee the design-related aspects of furniture deliveries, placement, and final styling. Construction scheduling, contractor supervision, and overall project management remain the responsibility of the client or general contractor.

  • Yes. While I’m based in the Charlotte area, I’m available to take on commercial projects in other cities and states. Depending on the scope, I can travel for site visits, presentations, and installations, and I also offer virtual design support to keep the process efficient between visits. Travel fees are discussed up front so you know exactly what to expect.

  • Yes. I partner with developers on projects such as spec homes, boutique hotels, and short-term rentals like Airbnbs. My role is to create cohesive, marketable designs that attract buyers and guests while staying mindful of budget and timelines. I specify high quality, durable finishes and furnishings that stand up to frequent use, ensuring the property not only photographs beautifully but also performs well in real life. Thoughtful design choices help increase property value, guest satisfaction, and long-term return on investment.

  • I offer a wide range of commercial projects, from small business offices and boutique retail shops to larger hospitality spaces such as restaurants, hotels, and multi-unit rentals. A good fit is any project where design can enhance the way the space functions and how people experience it. Whether you need a focused refresh for a single room or a full build-out for a new property, I can scale my services to match the size and goals of your project.

  • The timeline depends on the scope and complexity of the project. A smaller refresh, such as selecting paint, furnishings, and accessories for an office or retail shop, might take a few weeks from start to installation. Larger projects, like restaurant build-outs, boutique hotels, or multi-unit rentals, can take several months and often run alongside construction schedules. During our consultation, I’ll provide a customized timeline so you’ll know what to expect and when.

  • The process begins with a design consultation. During this meeting, we’ll walk through your space (or review plans if it’s not built yet), discuss your goals, budget, and timeline, and talk about how you’d like the space to function and feel. From there, I’ll recommend the best service option for your project—whether that’s à la carte support, full-service design, or a phased approach. This step ensures we start with a clear vision and roadmap before moving forward.

Getting
Started
FAQs

  • Getting started is simple!

    • Reach Out – Fill out our inquiry form or contact us directly to share details about your project.

    • Discovery Call – We’ll schedule a complimentary 15-minute call to learn more about your needs, answer initial questions, and make sure we’re the right fit.

    • Schedule a Consultation – If we’re a good match, we’ll book an initial design consultation (in-person or virtual) to dive deeper into your goals, style, and budget.

    • Choose Your Service – Based on your needs, we’ll recommend the right package—whether that’s full-service design, a virtual package, a mood board, or an à la carte consultation.

    • Design Begins – Once your consultation is complete and the retainer or package fee is secured, we begin the creative process of transforming your space.

    From there, we guide you every step of the way so the process feels organized, collaborative, and exciting.

  • The easiest way to get in touch is through our online inquiry form. This helps us gather a few details about your project so we can respond with the right next steps.

    You can also reach us directly by:

    Once we connect, we’ll schedule a complimentary 15-minute discovery call to make sure we’re the right fit before moving into a consultation.

  • Yes! We offer a complimentary 15-minute discovery call for all new clients. This is a quick, no-pressure conversation where we:

    • Learn a bit more about your project and goals

    • Answer your initial questions about our services

    • Make sure we’re the right fit before moving into a consultation

    If we’re aligned, the next step is to schedule a full design consultation where we dive deeper into your space, style, and budget.

  • Project start dates vary based on our current availability and the scope of your project.

    • Full-Service Interior Design – Once your design agreement is signed and your design fee has been paid, your project will be placed on our design calendar. We’ll provide an estimated timeline and begin work as scheduled.

    • Virtual Design – Virtual projects are typically scheduled sooner and begin based on current availability.

    • À La Carte Design Services – Consultations and additional design services are scheduled based on availability and are confirmed at the time of booking.

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