FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
You have come to this page because you are thinking of hiring an interior designer. You have just decided to invest a lot of money into your dream island home, and realize you may need help from an interior designer. ​
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Maybe you have already worked with interior designers in the past, but you have no idea where to start to set up a home in the Dominican Republic? Or perhaps you have been living on the island for a few years and it is time for a refresh?
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​Hiring an interior designer can be somewhat daunting. It’s a big commitment and it’s very personal. After all, you are about to entrust your home, your dreams (not to mention a large sum of money), to someone in the hope that they will provide you with the outcome you are looking for.​
But bear in mind, when you work with a designer:
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You are more likely going to meet your budget
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You are less likely to make expensive mistakes
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You can arrive at your home, drop your suitcases and start enjoying the Caribbean lifestyle - what we like to call the "barefoot" experience
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You will save time, money & headaches!
Below you can read through some of our most commonly asked questions, and learn about what to expect when working with Inspired Interiors DR. If you don't see your question, here, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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How do I get started?Complete the questionnaire, and we will be in touch to set up a free consultation to review your project and answer your questions.
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What if we don't live there and/or won't be on the island?We have years of experience collaborating remotely. Through user-friendly technology and sharing of images, we will work with you to create your vision. We will provide videos of your project as well as live chats to keep you up-to-date on our progress.
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How long does it take to complete a villa or condo design project in the Dominican Republic?Renovation or a complete design of your space is a major undertaking on the island. The time ranges will vary depending on the scope of the project. If you want custom options like furniture, window coverings or carpentry, please know that those things can take time - anywhere from 4- 12 weeks. Remember, there are no large department or furniture stores in the area, so all items have to be sourced in Santiago, Santo Domingo or online.
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Can you source any type of furniture?We are here to help our clients realize their vision of their homes. We have an extensive network of vendors, both pre-manufactured and custom manufacturers to choose from. Depending on your style choice and budget, we can help you choose furniture that meets your requirements. During the discovery phase, we will discuss colors, fabric and styles that will suit your project.
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How does the design process work?After you have completed the questionnaire, we will schedule an introductory call where we will discuss your project, exchange pictures and ideas, and generally get to know one another. Once you decide to move forward with Inspired Interiors DR, we will send you a proposal that outlines the budget and timeline as well as a checklist of required items and project scope. Upon receipt of 1st milestone payment, we will start sourcing the items and creating your design.
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What design styles do you specialize in?We can deliver any style including contemporary, coastal, modern, mid-century, and transitional designs. Not sure what your style is? You can send us pictures of styles and designs you like.
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How do you charge for your services?Fees for our services are based on our experience, your scope of work and the team members who will be needed to make your design dreams a reality. After discussing your goals and timeline and gathering all the info we need, we'll present a priced proposal for your approval.
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Am I better to ship items to the Dominican Republic to save some money?That depends. Many of our clients will ship some items, and then buy the rest on the island. It is important to understand that when you ship things here, it costs about $4.00+/pound and you may have to pay an 18% import tax and a fee for certain electronic devices. Also, take into consideration the time involved in shipping items, storage the items until the home is available as well as the requirement to verify that the items arrive in good condition, because returning items is not possible on the island. Some fabrics, woods and other material may not be conducive to the temperature and humidity of the island, so that is something else to consider and discuss with us.
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What's the best way to contact you?Leave a message here with your email address and we will connect.