Hiring an Interior Designer? Here’s the Cost Breakdown

Kitchen with island and barstools.

The question is inevitable.

We meet a great couple, ready to take the plunge into designing their new, custom home. They adore our team, they understand and trust our process, and they absolutely love our designs. Then, despite all the happiness, the mood in the room shifts when someone reluctantly asks, “Alright… how much does it cost to hire an interior designer?”

This is always a loaded question. Hiring an interior designer is not going to be cheap –– we won’t sugarcoat it –– but we can promise you that it will be worth the investment. If money is a concern for you, we encourage you to look at how the benefits of hiring an interior designer outweigh the costs of it all.

A professional interior designer takes the guesswork out of the perfect design by handling all aspects of the project from start to finish. Not only that, an interior designer will save you time, money, and energy in the long run.

Let’s break down how much an interior designer costs before we dive into the many benefits of investing in this service.

How Much Does An Interior Designer Cost?

So, how much does an interior designer cost? We’ll discuss some of the baseline costs that you can expect when it comes to an interior designer’s fee structure. Keep in mind that these  average costs for interior designers may not reflect every designer’s cost.

The way that an interior designer sets out their compensation and pricing may vary from person to person. We will discuss the most common compensation structures for interior designers.

Compensation Structures: Average Costs for Interior Designers

The way that interior designers charge clients for their services is their choice. It typically is one of two structures: flat rate or hourly.

Flat Rate Pricing

A flat rate is a charge that doesn’t vary based on the number of hours spent working. The average cost for an interior designer at a flat rate is between $2,000-$5,000, excluding the cost of furniture. This does not include additional upgrades that may be added to the project.

We typically charge a flat-rate fee calculated by the square footage of your home based on the service you are requesting.

Hourly Pricing

Other interior designers may charge anywhere between $100–$500/hour for their services. Your total price will vary depending on the number of hours taken to complete the project. Again, furniture and design upgrades are not included in this estimate.

In addition to the general fee for hiring an interior designer, there are other factors that may influence the final cost of designing your custom home. These factors include:

  • The size of your home. Larger homes will cost more per square foot.
  • The service requested. Depending on what services you’re requesting, there may be a price increase to cover the cost of any renovations or additional requests.
  • Experience level of your interior designer. A more experienced designer will likely charge more for their services.
  • Type of materials. More luxurious, high-end materials may come with a higher price tag than others.
  • Construction level. The more construction that needs to be done to your space, the higher the price may be to complete the work.

These are just a few of the potential factors that may increase the average cost for an interior designer.

Bathroom with white walls and marble countertops.

When and How Do I Pay An Interior Designer?

You may be wondering what the payment timeline looks like for interior designers. Many interior designers require a deposit of at least 10% before beginning the project. Typically, you will pay the rest of the balance in installments outlined and agreed upon in your contract. When furniture is purchased, some interior designers request a 50% payment upfront for each piece of furniture.

How Long Do Interior Design Projects Take?

This will depend on the project at hand. Some interior design processes may only take one month while others with a number of custom orders, upgrades, and construction may take six to eight months. Overall, the average interior design process takes two to three months.

Is It Worth It To Hire An Interior Designer?

It’s hard to step back and look at what the benefits of hiring an interior designer are, so we came up with 3 ways the benefits outweigh the costs:

1. Optimizing Your Time

We’ve been in the interior design industry long enough to know that building a home always seems to take a little bit longer than anyone originally anticipated. Delivery trucks always seem to come an hour after your 5-hour time window, and the couch you fell in love with won’t get shipped out for another 6 weeks… after it gets back in stock. We’ve learned to laugh through it all!

Hiring an interior designer takes the stress of time completely off your hands. We handle the entire process for you, so you can focus on the other things happening in your life. Having a professional manage your interior design project saves you time because you’re not worrying about it, we are!

2. Improving your Home Value

The best part about hiring an interior designer is the happiness you will feel in your beautiful new home after the process is done. You really can’t put a price tag on the enjoyment of a refreshed space that perfectly reflects who you are and supports your lifestyle.

Another plus of hiring an interior designer is that you will probably experience an uptick in your home’s value, as long as you’re making smart updates. An interior designer will guide you in making the right upgrades if getting a return on your investment is your main goal.

Knowing the market is essential here! And as interior design professionals, we know the market. We will help you make wise decisions if resale is on your mind, but most importantly, we will make you feel happy and comfortable in your new space.

3. Sticking To a Budget

If you decide to move forward with a design, working with an interior designer can actually save you money. I know we just said it was expensive, but stay with us here!

When you first meet with an interior designer, we agree to a set budget based on your preferences and the interior designer’s fee structure. We work hard to stay within this budget and create a design that you will love! When trying to design a home on your own, it’s easy to spend carelessly and buy things that don’t fit with your space, wasting money in the long run.

In the luxury spaces where we practice, we help our clients know when to splurge on that exceptional piece for the room. We bring these pieces to you and make professional recommendations. We also tell you where you can save! Overall, we will help you make all the right decisions when it comes to your space so you are spending your money wisely.

As our client, you will also receive insider access to the interior design world. We have trade discounts, partners in moving and shipping, and the inside scoop on material costs that we share with you. With exclusive access to certain vendors, an interior designer will give you reduced pricing on items you won’t find in a retail environment.

We hope that this guide has helped answer the question, ”How much does an interior designer cost?” and more. When considering hiring an interior designer, you can see that the benefits truly outweigh the costs.

Contact us today for more information about what hiring Alisha Taylor Interiors really will cost!

The Interior Design Timeline, Broken Down By a Pro

interior design timeline

Home is a sacred environment where you can escape to. Entrusting your space to an interior designer can be a scary thought, but understanding how an interior designer works and finding one you trust can be exactly what you need to get that beautiful home you’ve only dreamed of.

Learn how interior designers work, what a typical interior design timeline looks like, and how to team up with the right interior designer to achieve your dream home.

How Do Interior Designers Work?

As interior designers, we take your ideas, jumbled Pinterest boards, and individual needs, and create beautiful, cohesive, well-thought-out living spaces. Using the expertise that’s culminated from countless experiences on job sites, in homes, and at design conferences and markets, we can create stunning designs that enrich an otherwise lackluster space.

Read on to learn how to work with your luxury home interior designer and what to expect during each stage of the interior design timeline.

How To Work With an Interior Designer: Full Timeline

No two clients are the same, so no two homes are the same either; therefore, some projects are quick and done in a matter of months and other projects, like a luxury new build, can take years.

We’ve outlined the general process for a custom home build to give you a better idea of the interior design timeline you should expect.

Custom Home Build Timeline

Building a custom luxury home understandably has the longest interior design project schedule. This is because we will be starting the process from scratch, even before the construction on your home begins.

Idea Exploration

The idea exploration stage is often the most exciting process. In our kickoff meeting, we ask for concepts and images of the homes you like. We use these as inspiration to help illustrate your aesthetic.

You may not know all the lingo and vocabulary terms to properly communicate your style but pictures speak for themselves and offer a great way to communicate with us. Our goal is to use our extensive knowledge to interpret your vision and create a functional and comfortable space specific to your home.

Often, several renderings are created before finalizing a design that captures your lifestyle and personality. The idea exploration step can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks to ensure enough time to truly capture your thoughts in the initial renderings.

Professional Rendering

We display our design expertise during this step of the timeline through accurate and realistic 3D renderings of your luxury home. In addition to 3D renderings that are great to help you visualize your new space, we will draw technical and to-scale drawings for builders and subcontractors, creating detailed specification sheets to go with the designs. This process may take 3-4 weeks to complete depending on the number of revisions that are needed.

Construction

Once your design is finalized and all details carefully selected and approved, it’s now time to make your dream home a reality. At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we value the professional and personalized relationship that we foster with each client as well as with the various other professionals involved in each project. We communicate and stay in touch during the entire construction process working alongside your builder and the various subcontractors to make sure all conceptual designs become a reality the way they were envisioned.

Furniture is also ordered during this time frame with your designer to make sure construction and architectural design are properly partnered with all the finishing touches. This entire process can take months to years to complete depending on the size of your new home and how quickly your construction team can safely complete the build.

Reveal

Welcome home! The most gratifying step of the process is your dream home reveal. After much anticipation, we finally walk you through your professionally designed home. This walk-through is essential to ensure that everything is up to both technical standards and your personal expectations. With the completion of this step, we leave you to indulge in the luxury and this newfound sense of home where you’ll make memories for years to come.

Interior Design Timeline Changes

When it comes to interior design timelines, it’s best to keep an open mind and understand that not everything may go as planned. There are quite a few factors that may influence your timeline and cause a few setbacks. We’ve outlined just a few below to help you prepare for sudden timeline changes.

Material Availability

As mentioned earlier, material availability can have a major impact on the interior design timeline. If you have your heart set on a certain quartz countertop but it won’t be delivered for another three months, you’ll have to prepare for this extended timeline. Understand that luxury materials are a hot commodity and may take longer than expected to arrive.

Weather

If you’re building a luxury custom home, the weather can impact your timeline. Extreme heat can be dangerous for builders to work in, pushing your timeline back until it’s safe for construction to resume. Likewise, a rainy climate may impact your timeline as well. Consider what time of year your team will be working on your home and account for this potential impact.

Local Codes

When designing an all-new space, local codes can disrupt your timeline. If your construction team requires certain permits or permission to create the home you’re dreaming of, your timeline may be pushed back until that approval arrives. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to speed up this process aside from having patience and trusting your team to get the work done.

Work With Scottsdale’s Premier Interior Designer

Located in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, Alisha Taylor Interiors is a full-service luxury interior design firm that conducts extensive home remodels and custom home builds. Partner with Alisha Taylor Interiors and let our expert team create your dream luxury home. See Alisha Taylor’s interior design work across the Valley of the Sun and what previous clients have to say, or if you are excited to jump into the process, contact us today.

5 High-End, Luxury Flooring Options Fit For a Dream Home

Are you trying to decide what high-end flooring to use to bring beauty and elegance to your home? Flooring can often set the tone for the rest of the room. You’ll want to ensure that your furniture, cabinetry, countertops, and more work well with your chosen flooring. That’s why it’s vital that you work with an expert in luxury flooring like Alisha Taylor. An interior designer understands just how important it is to pick the perfect high-end floors for your home and can make the process easier.

Read on to learn more about the best high-end luxury flooring options on the market today along with what makes them unique.

5 Types of High-End Flooring

High-end flooring can tie a well-designed room together and bring that extra flair you’ve been looking for. To decide what type of flooring to choose, partner with an experienced interior designer to assist you in making your vision a reality.

Are you looking to add warmth, open up a space, or maybe show off a fine pattern? Whatever you may be envisioning, an interior designer will help you choose the right high-end floors for your home. Using quality materials is a must when it comes to getting that extravagant look.

Natural Stone Flooring

A natural stone floor is one of the most opulent high-end flooring because of its naturally shiny appearance. Marble is a popular choice for people who want to bring that palace feel to their foyer. It is a premium feature of many high-class homes and brings a bit of whimsy to a space.

Natural stone tile or slabs such as marble look beautiful in the afternoon sunlight and reflect your posh design style entirely. This flooring is surprisingly easy to maintain and suits any modern property. Choosing this floor style will open up your space with its light and airy feel.

Distressed Hardwood Flooring

This list of high-end flooring wouldn’t be complete without distressed hardwood floors. This style of quality flooring leaves distinct grooves in the wood planks and brings warmth and personality to any room. Distressed hardwood floors are rustic and give an antique appearance without being worn.

Perfect for the farmhouse design style, distressed hardwood floors complement white accent pieces and greenery flawlessly. It comes in many different plank widths to match your ideal concept.

Exotic Hardwood Floors

Exotic hardwood floors such as Brazilian Walnut or Australian Cypress are great options for high-end floors. They boast vibrant coloring, wide, rich grain, and durability. Some of the most beautiful wood grains come from exotic hardwoods.

If you want rare, unique-looking hardwood floors in your neighborhood, exotic hardwood may be the best option for you. Exotic hardwood floors add warmth and color to a room to complete the flawless design of your home.

Luxury Vinyl Plank

Nothing exudes sophistication like luxury vinyl plank. This high-end flooring option is perfect for those who want a high style that’s easy to maintain. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is one of the most popular high-end flooring options on the market. It resists scratches and scuffs and can be easily maintained by a skilled cleaning service.

There is a wide range of colors, style options, and plank widths available to choose from so you can customize your high-end floors to your specific liking. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is quiet to walk on, long-lasting, and not to mention, incredibly chic.

Mosaic Ceramic Tile

Mosaic or decorative ceramic floor tiles are sure to spruce up your space with their unique shape and pattern options. There’s a world of glamorous possibilities with mosaic ceramic tile options. From handmade tiles and antique reclaimed tiles to pebble mosaics and custom mosaic tiles, there is sure to be an exquisite style you’ll love.

Decorative ceramic tile is an excellent high-end flooring choice for bathrooms and even kitchens. Enjoy the work of art that are your floors while maintaining a cohesive and elevated style.

Enjoy Shimmering New Floors with Alisha Taylor

Hiring an interior designer may seem daunting, but we at Alisha Taylor Interiors are here to help you create your dream home. Clients and their satisfaction are our top priority, and we make sure to understand your ideal design vision to bring your dream home to life. We take pride in listening to your wants and needs and pay attention to every little detail to deliver the best results. We will make sure you get the gorgeous floors you’re wanting.

Contact us with any questions about what you can expect from hiring Alisha Taylor for your next home project or remodel.

The Right Way to Clean and Protect Your Wood Furniture

Wood furniture is a beautiful way to dress up your home and give it a luxurious feel. Since this furniture style is so coveted, you’ll want to be mindful of protecting your wood from everyday damage. When picking out your new wood furniture, talk with your interior designer about how to protect wood furniture and the best cleaning methods for the specific type of wood your furniture is made from.

How to Clean Wood Furniture

Working with an interior designer like Alisha Taylor means having the opportunity to learn how to clean wood furniture from an expert. Read on to learn the best way to clean, maintain, and protect your breath-taking new furniture.

Remove Built-Up Dirt

Dust and dirt buildup is normal in every home, so you’ll need to brush over the wood furniture to remove any dirt and dust particles before cleaning your wood. A classic feather duster or slightly damp lint-free cloth is best for removing dust without brushing it back into the air. Without first dusting off your wood furniture, you run the risk of scratching the piece as the particles are pushed across it during the cleaning process.

Use a Gentle Cleanser

With so many furniture cleaning products available, it can be confusing knowing where to start with cleaning your wood furniture. We recommend foregoing the highly chemical-based products and starting with gentle cleansers to clean and maintain your wood furniture. A simple mixture of water and dish soap is ideal for regular cleaning. Dish soap is soft on furniture and is the least likely product to leave behind damage to the finish of your stunning wood. You’ll want to use a damp (not soaked!) cloth to wipe lightly over the wood.

Dry Thoroughly

One of the top mistakes homeowners make when it comes to their wood furniture is oversaturating the wood during the cleaning process. Using a cloth that is too wet or leaving the water to dry on the wood can lead to more stains and damage. Once you’ve finished gently washing your furniture with your soap and water mixture, use a clean, soft cloth to dry your furniture thoroughly.

Maintaining Your Wood Furniture

Decorating your home with wood furniture adds an element of design and stylish flair to your space. We want your furniture to last a lifetime, so we’ve compiled a list of maintenance tips and tricks to keep your glamorous furniture looking brand new.

Protective Decor

Who says you can’t protect your wood furniture and decorate your home at the same time? Work with your interior designer to select unique and functional decor, such as customized coasters and matching placemats, to add an extra design element while protecting your wood furniture from water and heat damage.

Regular Dusting

As mentioned earlier, dust is a top competitor for elements that will damage your gorgeous wood furniture. Knowing this, you can better equip yourself with knowledge on how to protect your wood furniture from scratches. Use your classic feather duster or lint-free cloth regularly to keep your furniture looking brand new and avoid additional damages from dirt buildup.

Stain Prevention

Trying to remove stains from your wood furniture is a pesky task that can be avoided. Once you’ve figured out how to clean your wood furniture, a furniture wax is an excellent solution for protecting your wood from future water stains, scratches, heat marks, and more. Apply the wax carefully, rubbing in the direction of the wood grain for the best results.

Are you already dealing with stains? Luckily, we know just the people who can clean your wood furniture as seamlessly as possible and have your beautiful piece looking brand new! Consult a professional cleaning service to safely remove those pesky stains and avoid any further damage to your stunning wood furniture. They’ll also know just how to protect your wood furniture from future stains and scratches so you can keep your furniture looking flawless.

Build Your Wood Furniture Collection with Alisha Taylor

Though there are plenty of resources for learning how to clean wood furniture, Alisha Taylor has the advanced knowledge to truly help you choose and maintain wood furniture for your forever home. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped with all the tools and tips you’ll need to keep your furniture shiny, clean, and stain-free for years to come. Contact us today to start designing your space with the highest quality wood furniture and matching decor.

5 Best Fabric for Curtains: Your Guide to Dreamy Drapery

Placing the finishing touches on your newly designed home can seem overwhelming. At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we know exactly how to fulfill your dreams — all the way down to the curtains on your windows. Read on to learn about the best fabric for curtains and how to decide which one is right for your home.

Key Characteristics of Luxurious Fabric

While it’s simpler to choose a fabric based on your chosen design style, there are a few factors to consider. As your interior designer, we will help you choose the best fabric to create a sophisticated look. To prepare for this exploration process, review these key characteristics of luxurious fabrics.

Durable

Your curtains should be able to withstand the test of time, so you’ll want to consider durable fabric. Common wear is natural, but your fabric shouldn’t fall apart after just a few months. You should also be able to wash your curtains regularly without fear of damaging the fabric. Once you’ve chosen the style you’re looking for, work with your interior designer to find a customized fabric that will maintain its flawless appearance for years to come.

Resistance

Along with durability, you’ll want to find a fabric that is woven with resistance in mind. The way your curtains hang in a room can be a small design detail that adds to your look, so why settle for fabric that won’t hold its shape? The natural drape of your fabric should add an elegant flair to your overall design.

Color Hold

Selecting the perfect fabric color can be a key way to draw your entire style together. With such a careful decision to make, working with your interior designer to investigate fabric dyes can be a beneficial tactic to long-lasting curtains. You don’t want to be heading back to the store in a few months to replace your curtains because the color faded and no longer matches your space.

5 of the Best Fabrics for Curtains

It’s important to understand the factors that play into a well-designed curtain. However, your interior designer will be the most reliable resource for choosing the best fabric for curtains. We will assess your lifestyle and space to determine the best curtain fabric for you based on design and practicality. Karen Barnes, owner of the Elegant Window and Alisha Taylor Interiors partner, shares her expertise in drapery and different fabrics often used for curtains.

Silk

If you’ve ever found yourself enamored with a romantic interior design style, silk curtains are an ideal choice to achieve this look. The smooth fabric’s stunning drape adds a graceful appeal to your space while blocking out a high level of light. However, real silk is a bit more difficult to keep clean as it requires careful dry cleaning to maintain. Silk is also susceptible to sun damage, so we may want to install a solar blind or solar film to the window to prevent the damage.

Linen

Using linen curtain fabric is a stunning way to welcome natural light into your space.  Karen shares, “The flax fibers [linen is made of] are quite long and rigid and once they crease, they remain creased. Because of this characteristic, linen will develop wrinkles, despite careful handling. These wrinkles are an inherent part of the charm and beauty of linen.” The sheer fabric falls into a natural drape ideal for shared living spaces that need just a small touch of contemporary design. The billowy fabric is able to catch the slight breeze as it glides in through open windows, creating a peaceful movement through your space.

Polyester

Highly durable, affordable, and fade-resistant polyester fabric is a wonderful choice for any interior design style. Polyester curtains are easy to care for, making them a great option for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance style. Be aware that while this fabric is relatively simple to wash, polyester will hold onto stains. You may want to discuss with your interior designer which rooms would most benefit from this style of curtain in terms of cleanliness.

Cotton

Cotton fabric is one of the best fabrics for curtains in both a traditional or modernized space. Whether you’re looking for a more sheer design for a naturally lit space or opting for a more private feel, cotton is an adaptable fabric that can accomplish any design goal. Karen tells us, “Fabrics made from natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, and linen tend to hold the shape of the fold much better and are more easily trained than man-made fibers, such as polyester.” The fabric is also much easier to clean as its durable design makes it machine-washable.

Velvet

Extreme durability and luxurious feel combine flawlessly in a velvet fabric. The soft threads of this material are woven tightly together to create a stunning fabric capable of blocking both light and sound. Velvet fabric holds its shape unbelievably well, proving a beautiful additional detail to your grand design.

Reimagine Your Dreamy Drapery with Alisha Taylor

With Alisha Taylor as your interior designer, you can trust that you’ll receive the best fabric for your curtains. Alisha Taylor has spent the last 20 years learning the ins and outs of design, down to the best fabrics for curtains. Our experienced team of professionals can personalize your furnishings to create a timeless space that fits your wants. Contact us today to find out how we can bring your drapery dreams to life and design custom curtains that fit your lifestyle.

 

3 Considerations for a Full Remodel on Your Luxury Custom Home

In recent years, the market for luxury homes has seen a shift. Homeowners are now turning their interest to buildings with smart technology features and sustainability credentials. While luxury homes have always evoked awe for their grand and modern aesthetic, these high-end properties are also now more functional, personalized to the residents, and much smarter. After all, what’s more luxurious than a house that has all the features that you need and want? Make sure to keep these steps in mind if you’re considering making some changes in your luxury home.

Professional Consultations

Professional interior designers, contractors, and builders can translate your vision for a luxury home remodel into a reality. Their knowledge and experience allow them to make custom-made touches that can elevate your space and turn it into the true embodiment of luxury — and one that only you can truly call home.

Make sure that you are working with the most suitable pros for the project by asking the right questions during your initial consultation. Consider the services that they can offer and check if those align with your plan for your home. Pore over their work portfolio and review their client testimonials, if need be, so that you can adequately gauge if they’re the right fit for your remodeling project.

Remodeling Costs and Schedules

Though money is usually not an issue for luxury homeowners, you will still need to consider the costs of the services and the products that you may need for the renovation. A lot of people actually miscalculate the costs of their home renovation, so it’s important to set aside an additional budget for shipping fees, taxes, and other unexpected expenses. It’s also advisable to discuss the costs of the labor work and materials with the interior designers, contractors, or builders in advance so that you can avoid any hitches during the whole process.

The home renovation timeline is another important matter that you need to discuss with your team. It is estimated that bathroom remodels can take up to 4.5 weeks, while a full kitchen renovation may take up to four months if you need to fix the walls and the plumbing. To prevent any issues, ask for an estimated timeline before the project starts, and regularly check-in for updates during the whole process. If you have ordered materials from overseas like marble tiles from Italy or silk textiles from China, then you also need to take their shipping timelines into account.

Sustainable and Smart Solutions

Smart and sustainable features bring you a win-win situation: you can upgrade your home to become smarter and more efficient while also improving its value. Enjoy clean technology and retain your home’s aesthetics by setting up solar roof tiles, instead of solar panels. Windows can also be integrated with energy-efficient sensors that adjust its shades and tints based on the current light conditions. Also, consider using solar or geothermal heating systems so that you can heat or cool your home and keep yourself comfortable with the use of green technology.

You’ll definitely be able to relax better, knowing that your smart devices are taking care of all the housework. Considering all the benefits and the convenience that these technologies can bring, it’s not surprising 63 million American houses are estimated to become smart homes by 2022. Personal robots can do a wide range of tasks, from cleaning your rooms every day to monitoring various parts of your home. Home assistants, like Google Home and Amazon’s Alexa, can switch on your lights and turn on gadgets through voice command. Design3’s smart-home robot CARL, on the other hand, uses its cameras and sensors to guard your pet or to detect possible intruders. As technologies further advance, you can expect that more smart gadgets can be created to suit all of your needs at home.

A full remodel can be a huge task, so take note of all these considerations before you jump into your project.

Best 5 Luxury Kitchen Islands to Inspire Your Next New Build or Remodel

Whether you’re remodeling or designing a new-build luxury custom home, the kitchen will be the heart of your home. In many kitchen designs, the island takes center stage from a luxury design appeal and the working room you need in a kitchen.

Whether it’s a luxury kitchen island with pull-up seating or a stand-alone island for extra workspace, the design and the material selections certainly add to the appeal but also can be functional. We’ve included five kitchen islands from our recent projects that use different materials, finishes and offer a variety of functions and shapes to inspire your next kitchen!

5 Luxury Kitchen Islands to Feast Your Eyes On

1. Granite & Painted Island Cabinetry

This island from our Gilbert Farmhouse project is topped with a durable granite as it serves as the prep and working space for many meals for this young family. The cabinetry is a beautiful painted blue finish that is wipeable and scrubbable for spills and kitchen mishaps. Granite is a true durable material that doesn’t etch or stain. Home chefs can put a hot pan on it, use it as a cutting board in a pinch without a worry.

2. Quartz & Wood Stained Cabinetry

The light and bright quartz, along with the earthy wood finish of the island cabinetry, are a perfect combination for this luxury kitchen island. This island design offers lots of working space, and the quartz also provides quite a bit of durability to use in a kitchen. Left as is, it can turn into a serving bar on the backside, or counter stools can be added for quick meals and casual seating. 

3. Intersecting Countertops

Our Lafayette project’s stunning luxury island creates a gorgeous intersecting shape utilizing two different countertop materials and keeping the cabinetry matching the perimeter cabinetry. The light and bright, pure white quartz countertop in the working zone gives our clients all the durability they need to prep food and the warmth of the wood where the counter stools create a luxury island appeal that feels more like a formal dining space. 

4. The Freestanding Island

For this remodel project at our Arcadia project, the kitchen space was predetermined, but the client needed additional workspace. Adding a freestanding island in the center that contrasts with the rest of the kitchen adds a gorgeous luxury design appeal factor and creates a very workable space. The small island has a stone top that allows for hot pans and can be used as a cutting surface. The wood countertops around the perimeter offer a gorgeous warmth to the space and allow for contrasting island to stand out as a luxury design factor. 

5.  The XL Island

For our Walnut Court new build project, we had space, so we created one large luxury island usable from all four sides. This island is power-packed with luxury appeal with function and storage on each side and cabinetry and working space along the sink side. A beverage fridge on the side offers a guest or family member to grab a quick drink without interrupting the chef at work. Pull up stools to chat with the chef or eat a snack while doing homework are all options from the island’s seating side. A 12’ x 6’ island allows this kitchen to hold and offer every aspect of a luxury home design.

Whether you want the XL size with all the luxury features or a freestanding surface to use as a cutting board or an interesting shape, kitchen islands in luxury home design are all about creativity and function.

The selection of materials is critical when designing one of these luxury islands. Durability and knowing each of our clients’ lifestyles are factors taken into consideration when designing a luxury kitchen island. Kitchens are the heart of the home and set the style, mood and purpose of each home. Whether it’s a casual kickback appeal to the most luxurious grand appeal, it starts with the kitchen and creating that luxury kitchen island design just right for each client.

If you are building or ready to embark on an extensive remodel, let us worry about each detail, from the luxury appeal to the pure function and durability you and your family needs. Call Alisha Taylor Interiors. We want to make the heart of your home our focus!   

How to Choose a Style With an Interior Designer

Choosing an interior design style is a challenging task for even the most experienced homeowner. Your style could mimic a popular trend or be created from scratch based on the specific design elements you enjoy. When it comes to knowing how to choose an interior design style, investing in a trusted interior designer can be an incredibly beneficial choice. Experienced and knowledgeable, your interior designer will work with you throughout the entire process to ensure you receive the home interior design style of your dreams.

How to Choose Your Interior Design Style

There are a few different methods you can use to choose your interior design style. From the initial exploration to the step-by-step process of constructing the design, your interior designer is a trusted guide along the way.

Find Inspiration

Finding inspiration can happen anywhere. Social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are often great starting resources to explore all the luxurious interior design possibilities. You may also find inspiration by wandering into home decor stores, interior designer’s websites, and more. Inspiration may even come from your day-to-day life. You might fall in love with the kitchen design of your neighbor’s home during a friendly dinner party or enjoy the nature-inspired style of your office lobby. Your interior designer may even offer suggestions during your initial meetings that inspire how to choose your interior design style.

Check Out Portfolios

An interior designer’s portfolio is an extensive collection of their finest work. Portfolios can both inspire your style choice and help you decide on the best interior designer for your project. You may be leaning towards a mid-century modern style and discover that a certain interior designer is an extraordinaire in the style. Keep in mind that many interior designers utilize social media to showcase their work, so explore the interior design side of the platforms to help you figure out how to choose your interior design style and the designer who will bring it to life.

Explore Your Home

Take a look around your home. Notice the furniture you’ve chosen and the design elements that currently reside in your space. You may start to see a certain type of style that you’ve been drawn to previously. If the aspects you see currently still seem like a flawless fit for your lifestyle, consider incorporating them into your new style. Invite your interior designer to your home to walk through with their experienced eye and find small details that you may want to carry over into the new design.

Create Your Dream Design with Your Interior Designer

Once you’ve chosen your interior design style, work with your interior designer to start piecing together what you’ll need to complete the project. Let’s look at the next steps you’ll take with your dream team to design your home.

Maximize Your Space

Whether you’re building a brand new custom home or looking to upgrade your existing space, you’ll want a space that works for you. Your interior designer has the expertise to help you decide spaces in your home may need renovations to fit the aesthetic and functionality of your chosen design. Hiring Alisha Taylor to be your interior designer means there’s no need to worry about finding the perfect architect or builder. With her extensive list of contacts, she’ll know just the team to invite to the project that will have your best interest and design style in mind.

Select Your Furniture

Your space has been completed and is ready to be filled with all the furniture and accessories that will make your home uniquely yours. Selecting your furniture is a thrilling step in the process of creating your interior design style. While it can be enticing to purchase all of your furniture at once, let your interior designer help you work through each room to find the perfect pieces. Your interior designer will have a thorough understanding of the best places to purchase the furniture through their exclusive list of vendors that will turn your design style into a reality.

Place the Finishing Touches

After you and your interior designer have completed the layout of your home, it’s time to add the finishing touches! These may come from the initial walk-through of your home or be an all-new selection of decor decided on by you and your interior designer that completes the design style. These small details will complement your chosen style and turn your home into a luxury oasis.

Upgrade Your Design Style with Alisha Taylor

With Alisha Taylor, you can trust that your interior design style dreams will come true. Our fabulous team of professionals will make sure that your home is uniquely designed for you. We’ll analyze all your wants and needs to create the ideal design for your home. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in how to choose your interior design style.

Luxurious Design Upgrades for a Modern Home Office

Home offices should be your quiet sanctuary where you can go to work from home, handle your finances, or curl up with your favorite book. However you use your home office, you’ll want a design that matches the tone. The first step in designing your luxury home office is to hire an interior designer with the knowledge and experience to fulfill your expectations. Professional interior designers like Alisha Taylor know how to work hand-in-hand with you to give you the space you need to get work done.

5 Modern Home Office Upgrades

An interior designer can turn your home office into a luxurious and functional space so you can work from home in a glamorous setting.

Charming Sitting Area

Offices are a space to innovate and achieve insurmountable goals. They are also a space to make connections and build working relationships. A luxury home office sitting area is the perfect place to facilitate these conversations.

You’ll want to invest in high-quality materials and functional pieces that can utilize your space to the max while still maintaining the aesthetic. An interior designer can help you choose the main pieces of the space first so smaller details can fit the design scheme. In addition, choose the furniture that will bring a sense of serenity and productivity to your space.

Elegant Desk

No matter your industry, your worktop or desk is the prime location for productivity. Having a desk that suits your needs is vital to the functionality of your luxury home office.

The desk is a central focus in any office, and an elegant desk and chair set can instantly create a luxurious feel to your space. An interior designer will assess your lifestyle and needs to determine an appropriate desk setup—whether that be a standing desk, an executive desk, or a drafting desk.

Statement Light Fixture

Whether you’re spending the day making connections or working late into the night on your latest project, you’ll want a statement light fixture to brighten your luxury home office. A light fixture or two will keep your space well-lit while adding a touch of custom elegance to your office.

Your interior designer is an expert at choosing the right fixture to match your design aesthetic and fit your needs. Decide with your designer what feel you’re looking for with your lighting, and let them work their magic! Choose from styles such as traditional, contemporary, rustic, and more to fit your functional lighting wants.

Natural Lighting

Natural light is proven to improve mood, energy, alertness, and productivity. With so much time spent working in a home office, an abundance of natural light may be beneficial.

Meet with your interior designer and architect to decide what wall or room may be best to let in the most lighting. They can analyze the space and determine what style and size will fit the space best. A bay window may open up the space and create a perfect nook for custom seating. Picture windows can let in the max amount of sunlight. Work with your interior designer to choose the perfect fit.

Custom Built-Ins

Office spaces are a beautiful blend of functionality and design. An interior designer will help you find balance with custom built-ins.

Your built-in may include a floor-to-ceiling shelving unit for top-tier organization or a wall filled with bookshelves to show off your elegant collection of all the classics. Your interior designer will be able to evaluate the needs you’ll have for your space and design a flawless custom built-in solution.

How an Interior Designer Can Help Upgrade Your Home Office

Upgrading a room in your home can feel like an overwhelming task. It can be a challenge to know where to start, but that’s where your interior designer comes in. Let us walk you through the process of upgrading your space to design the luxury home office of your dreams.

Create Your Dream Design

Once you’ve chosen your interior designer, schedule a meeting to discuss the ideas you have and the best ways to achieve the luxurious home office you’ve been dreaming of. Before meeting with your interior designer, it may be beneficial to scour their social media for inspiration from previous projects to decide on the style you feel will best suit the space.

Home Office Renovations

Redesigning your home office will most likely come with some renovations to make the space as functional and aesthetically pleasing as possible. Your first step is to hire your interior designer, who will work hand-in-hand with an architect and builder to make sure the space meets all your luxury home office dreams. With an interior designer like Alisha Taylor, you won’t have to worry about finding this dream team yourself. Alisha Taylor has established relationships with reputable builders and architects you’ll need to create your ideal space.

Finishing Touches

Your interior designer will know just how to put the finishing touches on your space. Classic wire baskets, a home coffee station, or custom-made paintings can fill your space and add personalized touches. With so much space to decorate in your renovated home office, the possibilities are endless.

Trust Alisha Taylor to Inspire Your Space

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Alisha Taylor has all the knowledge and experience you need to design the home office of your dreams. Alisha Taylor has mastered the ability to complete any interior design project, from glamorous remodels to choosing the perfect piece of furniture to complete your space.

Peruse our expansive portfolio of redesigned spaces, or contact us today to take the first step toward your luxurious home office upgrade.

 

How to Choose the Right Interior Designer for Your Project

The waiting is over! You’ve decided to FINALLY build your dream home and are elated at the idea of the finished project, but are now feeling a little unsure of where to start.

Enter your interior designer, ready to turn your dream home into a reality. You’ll want to hire your interior designer before construction starts on a new build or remodel so they can work closely with the builder and architect through the entire design process. So, who exactly should that interior designer be? Let’s talk about how to choose an interior designer that’s right for you.

How to Choose an Interior Designer

To each person, a home means something different. For some, it’s a place where memories are made. To others, a home represents family or a safe space. When it comes to your home, you want to hire an interior designer who understands what your home means to you. Before you make your decision, consider some of the following factors.

Decide On a Style

Every time you picture your dream home, what style comes to mind? Your first step in the process is to figure out exactly what you want your interior to look like. Industrial? Modern? Minimalist? Farmhouse? Whichever you choose, make sure the interior designer you hire can bring this style to life.

Check Out Portfolios

An experienced interior designer will have a full portfolio of past designs to look at. You’ll be able to see what kind of designs they’re able to complete. This will also allow you to gain a good sense of if their design style is the right one for you. Many interior designers have also taken to social media to show off their inspiring work, so consider checking out these useful platforms to determine what style your interior designer can work with.

Ask Questions

Coming prepared with questions for a potential interior designer ensures that any vital information is covered during your initial consultation. A knowledgeable interior designer will be able to answer any questions you may have to help you feel ready to take on this task.

Trust Yourself

You know the vision for your home better than anyone else. You’ve imagined yourself standing at that stunning, marble-covered island in your kitchen for years. When choosing an interior designer, hire the one you feel will work best with you and understands your vision. Your interior designer will be instrumental in creating the place you call home, so find someone you trust with that responsibility.

Qualities to Look for in an Interior Designer

Designing a space that feels like home is a highly personal experience. You’ll want to work with an interior designer who puts you at ease and makes the entire process run smoothly. When you think of who you might want to work with, think about the qualities you’ve seen in a good interior designer before.

Honesty

When it comes to your home, you won’t want to take any chances. If there is a problem in the design process, you’ll want to choose an interior designer that will be honest about it and transparent from the jump. You may have a grand idea that doesn’t quite work with the given budget or the space, issues that are better addressed honestly from the start.

Strong Work Ethic

Turning your home into a luxurious oasis requires a strong work ethic and dedication to the process—a quality you’ll want to look for in a great interior designer. The right interior designer for you will be equally as passionate and driven about designing your home as you are.

Knowledgeable

When choosing an interior designer, you’ll want a professional who knows the industry like the back of their hand. The right interior designer will bring the knowledge and advice you’ll need to take your ideas and make them a reality. Choose an interior designer who can answer all your questions without hesitation. A knowledgeable and qualified designer should do more than just ‘decorate’. They work with the builder and architect on the floor plan, and provide scale drawings and 3D renderings through the process. They should select materials and finishes for your home in addition to selecting furniture and accessories. Don’t settle for anything less than the best!

Authenticity

One of the qualities that makes Alisha Taylor such an incredible designer is that she’s not afraid to be authentic. She brings her whole self to the table and lets her strengths shine through in her work. The right interior designer will be aware of their strengths (and weaknesses) and know how to use their genuine self to create the best space for you. They want to connect with you and want to complete a design that they feel proud putting their name on.

Make Your Dreams a Reality with Alisha Taylor

In the center of Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona, Alisha Taylor is the right interior design for you. Schedule an appointment today with Alisha Taylor Interiors and let her incredible team help you find happiness in your home.

Advantages of Hiring an Interior Designer for Custom Homes

Interior design is a personal concept that is unique to each family. Different considerations should be made to accommodate your lifestyle and needs—Chef’s pantry? Master bathroom spa? Home theater? An interior designer has the foresight and knowledge to consider these luxury components.

Learn why you should hire an interior designer to design your home.

Who Hires Interior Designers?

Clients who hire interior designers tend to have one thing in common: they want a living space that is functional and comfortable while also expressing who they are. They desire a luxurious ambiance but do not have time to invest in doing it themselves. Interior designers can combine industry experience and careful client considerations to create practical and liveable spaces complete with custom pieces and luxury products. With these personal and exclusive touches provided by an interior designer, those who hire interior designers can achieve a living space that is unique to their tastes.

3 Advantages of Hiring an Interior Designer

There are many advantages to hiring a professional interior designer like Alisha Taylor Interiors. Many have assumptions about how exactly an interior designer can help customize their living space. Here is a list of reasons why hiring an interior designer is worth it, especially if you are building a custom home.

Professional Knowledge and Expertise

Many do not realize that interior design is an art and science, and both must be balanced to achieve the perfect living space for each client. Interior designers study for years to get a bachelor’s degree in interior design and bring both knowledge and professionalism to each client they design for.

Beyond decorating knowledge, an interior designer is trained in specialized skills like working with the computer software AutoCAD to provide a client with custom 3D renderings of their design. They can use these renderings to visualize both the limitations and the possibilities within a space.

Using these skills, a professional interior designer evaluates the living space you want to design and works with both the builder and the architect to bring it to life.

Industry Connections

Interior designers have an eye for creating a liveable space; in addition, they can also “speak” the language of design. Interior design is riddled with jargon—having an experienced designer by your side can allow you to decipher the jargon and make informed design decisions. Interior designers also speak the language of industry professionals.

Often, for luxury custom home builds, interior designers are commissioned early in the process to assist architects, builders, and other professionals. They have a network of custom cabinetry companies, luxury light fixture installers, and other professionals to contribute their knowledge. Even more, interior designers have access to vendors in the furniture industry to enrich and expand their design options.

With these considerations, they create intentional designs and communicate plans to professionals to design a home appropriate for your lifestyle.

Time Efficient

Many assume that hiring an interior designer will take out too much of their time. However, the opposite is true.

With the help of an interior designer, you will save time. When attempting to design or furnish a room on your own, you will spend a good amount of time making many decisions about furnishings and what will go where. An interior designer can work directly with the architect and construction professionals to articulate how to complete the desired aesthetic. They will also be able to make a plan of how to achieve these needs. Finally, an interior designer can foresee any obstacles that may come up and fix them without causing the client any headache.

Let Alisha Taylor Interiors Realize Your Living Space

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we offer different interior design services to meet your needs: new builds and remodels and furniture and furnishings. We carefully think through the process from the first meeting to the final touches to achieve the aesthetic you want.

Alisha Taylor has been working in the interior design industry for over 20 years. With designing hundreds of  homes around Arizona, she possesses the expertise and experience to cater to your living space’s needs.

Her clients rave about her ability to visualize a design and provide the exact specifications for each project. The attention to detail and unparalleled knowledge of each step of the construction process makes Alisha Taylor Interiors the premier interior designer in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Browse our portfolio of personalized living spaces to get inspired, and contact us today to begin the process of creating your dream home.

How an Interior Designer Fits into the Construction Process

Modern Sunset Exterior Design

Ever wonder how your interior designer fits into the construction process of your new home? A true interior designer does more than simply shop for chandeliers and sectionals—they incorporate your lifestyle needs and aesthetic desires into every step of the process.

Although crafting exquisite looks in your residence is a part of it (and don’t get us wrong, we have a BLAST furnishing homes), there’s more behind-the-scenes work that happens before a hammer ever hits a nail! Most people don’t realize that interior designers handle many areas of the design process from start to finish, whether they are working on a new build or full remodel project.

Including your interior designer during the entirety of the construction process makes it easier to create your home custom to your specifications. Interior design construction incorporates all of the people working on your home, saving you time and ensuring that your specifications are met.

Interior Designers See the Whole Vision

With so many moving parts involved in a new build or home remodel, it’s easy to get lost in the details. The architect is focused on one design aspect, the contractor is focused on another aspect, and an electrician and plumber will be focused on another. But who is keeping the bigger picture in mind to ensure the space is not just liveable but beautiful and functional? Enter a skilled interior designer.

Interior design construction considers all factors of what a client wants when planning out their dream home. These professionals bring a different perspective to the project because they have discussed the home design in detail with the client. The earlier you include an interior designer in the construction process, the more seamlessly the moving parts come together.

Granite or marble countertops? Grand chandelier or pocket lighting? Kitchen island options with a luxury accent wall? These are all questions that the interior designer considers that the architect and builder will not think about.

Interior Designers Ensure Your Needs and Desires are Met 

To bring your dream home to life, an interior designer should be involved at the start of the construction process. This way, nothing about your home design is an afterthought. Intentional design is key.

At the beginning of the design process, interior designers prepare and develop all your personalized interior plans. Then, the designer shares the plans with the architect and builder. From the location of doors and windows to the exact layouts of rooms in your home, the renderings will reflect these specifications. Having these 3D renderings from the interior designer gives you the opportunity to fully visualize your new home.

In addition to ensuring the project comes together according to your specifications, the interior designer lessens your decision load. Your designer will handle the selection process of materials and finishes throughout the entire home. The cabinetry finishes, countertops, plumbing fixtures, decorative lighting fixtures, flooring material, vertical surface materials, tile, paint, and stains are carefully selected using the lifestyle and preference information gathered at the beginning of the project.

Time is a valuable resource. Your interior designer understands this. This is why they do the heavy lifting when it comes to making these intricate and time-consuming decisions.

Interior Designers Work in Tandem with the Construction Team

Interior designers possess a deep knowledge of the construction process. This allows them to effectively communicate with the contractor and subcontractors working on the project. Adding an interior designer allows you to skip the hassle of potential miscommunication that can occur between you and your contractors.

After choosing an interior designer to work with the architect, builder, and construction team, they can collaborate and create practical construction and design plans.

Here are just some of the ways that interior design construction can speed up the process:

  • Decide where to place electrical outlets for lighting fixtures
  • Figure out where plumbing fixtures would be best suited
  • Determine whether a space is too large or small for the desired furnishings and adjust the floor plan accordingly with the architect
  • Choose materials for cabinets, flooring, countertops, and more
  • Consider where specific furniture will be placed and installed

Interior Designers Save You Money in the Long Run

Many luxury home builders wait until their home is finished before hiring a professional interior designer. This mistake can be a costly one. Certain aspects of the home may have to be replaced based on the designs that are presented.

An interior designer can construct and design your home with a specific budget in mind.

Because interior designers handle communication with the contractor and subcontractors, they can fully demonstrate the proposed designs for bidding and convey further details of approved designs. Designers know the correct industry terminology and processes, saving you time and money when negotiating with subcontractors.

Think of an interior designer as your go-to problem solver and resource along each point of the project. Don’t have time to browse through the options? Your interior designer can handle the decisions. Wondering what will best suit your lifestyle? Your interior designer will compile a list of recommendations for you. Need confirmation about a design choice? Your interior designer will let you know if it’s a good option or clues you into downsides risks you might not have considered.

If you hire an interior designer after the fact, you may be spending more money in the long run. The cost (and time spent) of making the wrong decisions can lengthen the project timeline and leave you with a less than desirable result. By starting with the help of an interior designer, you can avoid all those extra expenses and watch your ideal home come together seamlessly.

Create Your Dream Space with Your Dream Interior Designer 

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, our expert designers are here to help you through the interior design construction process. We listen to your ideas and then provide you with a plan to design the home of your dreams.

Your home should be a reflection of your lifestyle. It will truly become your haven with the assistance of Alisha Taylor. To begin your journey, schedule a consultation with Alisha Taylor Interiors today!

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