Your Questions Answered:



What happens during the discovery call?
The discovery call is a complimentary conversation designed to explore your goals, priorities, and how consultation can best support your project. We discuss your space, lifestyle needs, and desired outcomes to determine if my approach aligns with your expectations and if we are a good fit to work together.
This call is not a sales pitch, it is a conversation grounded in clarity, direction, and mutual understanding.
Why do you focus on consultation rather than full-service procurement?
My work has evolved toward helping people think more clearly about their homes rather than managing every detail of implementation. Consultation allows me to focus on what I do best, offering experienced guidance, insight, and direction, while also dedicating time to writing and teaching on a broader scale. This approach allows my work to reach more people and empowers clients with clarity they can carry forward long after our sessions together.
What can I expect from a design consultation?
A design consultation provides actionable recommendations tailored to your space and goals. This may include layout guidance, color and finish suggestions, lighting strategy, kitchen or bath planning, and clarity around next steps.
Consultations are structured to support confident decision-making, whether you implement the advice independently, work with trades, or seek further support.
Can we work together virtually or long distance?
Absolutely. Virtual consultations are a core part of how I work, especially for clients outside Western North Carolina. Through video calls, detailed questionnaires, and digital presentations, you receive the same design direction, clarity, and support, without geographical limitation.
Can I implement the design recommendations on my own?
Yes. Most of my consultation work is designed to empower clients to implement plans independently. You can take your design direction and confidently move forward on your own timeline or choose to seek additional support as needed.
Your comfort and clarity in execution are central to how I guide clients.
How long does a consultation engagement typically last?
Since we work consultation-first, timelines vary based on the scope of guidance you need. Some clients book a single session for targeted direction, while others engage for an extended series of consultations during larger projects.
During the discovery call, we will establish a timeline that reflects the level of support you are seeking and the complexity of your space.
Do you require a retainer to begin design consultation?
Yes. A non-refundable retainer is required upfront to secure your place on my calendar and begin design consultation. The retainer covers billable design time, including review of materials, custom questionnaires, and preparation for our consultation sessions. It is applied toward your design time when you move forward.
This approach ensures focused attention and thoughtful direction from the start.
Is the retainer refundable?
No, because the retainer compensates for time and expertise already committed, it is non-refundable. The guidance provided during this phase is yours to keep and can be valuable for future decisions.
How is additional design time billed?
Design time beyond the retainer is billed in 15-minute increments at my standard hourly rate. This applies to all consultation activities, including review of materials, advice, communication, and follow-up support.
How should I prepare for a consultation?
Preparation helps maximize the value of your consultation. During our session, you may be asked to provide photos, measurements, inspiration imagery, and a completed questionnaire. This allows me to understand your space and needs in advance so our time together is focused and productive.
If you would like to better understand how consultation works or determine next steps, you may review What to Expect During the Discovery Call Session.
"My wife and I purchased a second home in Waynesville, NC, in 2005. Coming from Ohio, we needed some help with decorating ideas, and we connected with Tina after learning about her experience in home design. The cabin was a generic log cabin that needed our personal touch and comfort. Tina was there from choosing paint colors to arranging furniture. Just this year (2024), we painted the walls of the master bath a neutral shade of white and added new accents under Tina's direction. Tina has also been the tiebreaker when we couldn’t agree on a common theme. It’s been a work in progress for 20 years, and we’re still using Tina’s ideas to fulfill our dream cabin. Life is for learning."
~Mike and Bona Griffieth
Got More Questions?
Let’s talk about it together. I’m excited to learn more about your project and want to help create a beautiful, personalized design that fits your style and need.


