Light Bright open concept kitchen and dining with large A-frame windows

You’ve been thinking about hiring an interior designer. Maybe you’ve scrolled through Pinterest for months, saved a hundred Instagram posts, or tried to DIY your space—and realized something’s missing.

But before you make the leap, you want to know:

What actually happens when you hire a designer?

Is it overwhelming? Is it expensive? Do you have to commit to a massive project? Will they “get” your style—or push something you don’t want?

Let’s break it down.

This post walks you through the entire design process at Sukkha Interior Design—from that first connection call to the final reveal—so you know exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and how to get the most out of your investment.

Step 1: Inquiry + Free Connection Call

Image of a dusty pink telephone on a pink background

Every design project starts with a conversation. Whether you fill out the form on my website or shoot me a DM on Instagram, the first step is a free 20-minute connection call.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

What’s not working in your space right now?
What are your goals (function, feel, timeline)?
What level of support do you need?
What’s your ballpark budget?

You’ll also get a feel for my process and personality—because design is personal, and we should both feel excited to work together.

💬 No pressure, no pushy sales tactics. Just a clear, honest conversation to see what’s possible.

Step 2: Choose the Right Service Tier for You

At Sukkha, I offer three flexible design options so you can choose the level of support that fits your life and your project:

1. Project Jumpstart (Best for quick clarity)

a chart that breaks down the different interior design services available

60-minute virtual session
Follow-up PDF guide with notes, product suggestions, and next steps
Ideal for solving a single design problem or planning a mini refresh

💡 Perfect if you just need a designer’s brain on your space for an hour—and want to take it from there.

2. Design Plan (Best for the DIY-minded with support)

Full custom design for one or more rooms
Includes mood boards, layout plans, color palette, and sourcing
You handle ordering and setup at your pace

📦 Great for clients who want a high-level plan but feel confident executing it on their own timeline.

3. Full-Service Design (Best for busy professionals who want the “after” without the stress)

Turnkey experience from concept to install
I manage the vendors, orders, deliveries, and final styling
You show up to a finished, beautiful space

🛋️ This is our most hands-on, high-impact service—and it books fast.

Step 3: Design Discovery

Once we’ve chosen the best service path for you, we dive into the discovery phase. This is where I get to know you, your space, and your style on a deeper level.

What it includes:

A detailed design questionnaire
Measurements and photos of your space
A Pinterest or inspiration folder
A style vibe check (Don’t worry—I help with this!)

We’ll also talk through what’s staying, what’s going, and what your daily life looks like. Because good design doesn’t just look great—it works for you.

Step 4: The Concept Phase

This is the fun part: where the vision starts to take shape.

Depending on your package, you’ll receive:

Mood boards
Color palette options
Preliminary floor plan or layout ideas
Sample furnishings or inspiration references

This is where we align on the overall look and feel before getting into the nitty gritty.

🌿 My goal is to create a space that feels like you—elevated, functional, and welcoming.

Step 5: Detailed Design Plan

Image of a interior design plan presentation

Once we’ve aligned on the direction, I’ll create your complete design plan. This includes:

Finalized layout(s)
Full sourcing list with links (or trade vendors for full-service clients)
Paint colors, finishes, fabrics
Lighting, art, window treatments, and styling details

If we’re doing a Design Plan or Full-Service project, this is the phase where everything starts to click into place.

🛠️ If you’re using contractors, this is also when I provide them with design specs, elevations, or site notes.

Step 6: Ordering, Purchasing, and Project Management

This step depends on your service level:

Design Plan clients receive all links and purchasing info. You handle ordering, deliveries, and setup at your pace.
Full-Service clients have it easy—I manage vendors, track shipments, resolve issues, and coordinate everything behind the scenes.

🧩 This is where a lot of DIY projects fall apart. With full-service, I take that stress off your plate.

Step 7: Styling + Install (aka the Magic Moment)

Once everything’s in place, we bring it to life.

For Full-Service Design clients, I’ll:

Oversee furniture installation
Style shelves, beds, and tables
Add final touches like florals, books, and textiles
Reveal the completed space to you

For Project Jumpstart or Design Plan clients, I provide styling notes and guidance so you can achieve a finished look on your own.

📸 We can also do professional photos at this stage if you’d like to document the transformation!

Timeline: How Long Does This Take?

Design timelines vary depending on the scope and service. Here’s a general range of deliverables:

Service Type

Timeline

Project Jumpstart: 1-2 weeks from session

Design Plan: 4-5 weeks

Full-Service Design : 2–4 months (avg - based on scope of project)

Need something fast for the holidays? Let’s talk—I can help you prioritize the rooms and updates that make the biggest impact.

What Does It Cost to Hire a Designer?

Here’s a quick breakdown of my pricing:

Project Jumpstart: $1,500 Flat fee – great for quick wins
Design Plan: starts at $4,999+ Priced per space and scope – transparent quote provided after connection call
Full-Service Design: starts at $9,999+ Custom quote based on size, scope, and location - get your own HGTV reveal moment!

Hiring a designer is an investment—but it can save you money by avoiding costly mistakes, acheiving goals more efficiently, improving home value, and giving you a space that actually works for your life and goals.

Bright minimalist bedroom with wood walls and ceilings

Client FAQs

Q: Do I have to buy everything you recommend?

A: Not at all. I always offer options—and I’m happy to incorporate pieces you already love.

Q: What if I don’t know my style?

A: That’s my job! Through our discovery process, I help you define a look that feels authentic and timeless.

Q: Can you help me with a vacation rental or tiny home?

A: Yes! I specialize in small spaces and Airbnb design, and I bring both strategy and style to every project.

Q: Is virtual design really effective?

A: Absolutely. I have worked with clients nationwide for nearly 10 years, using clear communication, detailed visuals, and personalized plans that make remote collaboration seamless.