FAQs
Q: Why should I choose Fiona Bateman Interiors?
A: At Fiona Bateman Interiors, we take great pride in both the work we produce and the service we provide. We understand that taking on a project can feel stressful, and our years of experience allow us to guide you through the process. We are honest, approachable and empathetic, qualities that are vital when working closely with a designer over an extended period.
Q: When should I hire an interior designer?
A: We strongly recommend engaging Fiona Bateman Interiors at the very beginning of your journey. Once we have discussed your wishes, we can provide informed guidance to your architect and contractors, or recommend trusted professionals we have worked with on previous projects, ensuring the best interior solutions for you and your home. Many areas of construction require the specification of final materials and product choices. We also create lighting and electrical designs to suit our furniture layouts, so it is important that the designs are completed before any construction work begins.
Q: Do I have to pay for the initial consultation?
A: The initial video consultation is complimentary, as it provides a great opportunity for both parties to meet. If you are happy with the information provided during the consultation, we will then arrange an initial site visit to see your space in person. This allows us to provide an accurate design fee for your project. The initial site visit is charged at £300, which is refundable on booking. For clients based more than an hour from our Lincoln office, travel time and expenses will incur an additional non-refundable charge.
Q: How far do you travel for a project?
A: Fiona Bateman Interiors undertakes projects across the UK. For locations more than an hour’s travel from our Lincoln office, travel time and expenses will be chargeable
Q: What services do you offer?
A: Our main service is full room design, supply, installation and project coordination. This ensures we have full control over all the moving parts, helping the process run smoothly from start to finish. In addition, we offer a separate design advice service for clients who would like guidance for a smaller number of hours. This is charged at £300 for a half day (up to 4 hours) or £600 for a full day (4–8 hours).
Q: Does the design fee include products and installation?
A: No. The design fee covers our time to carefully curate and cost the designs, as well as to make any necessary revisions. Depending on the size of the project, this process can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks. At the first design presentation, we will provide a detailed estimate for the products we have suggested and will procure on your behalf, along with any associated installation costs. This ensures you have a clear understanding of the full investment required and the level of care and attention going into every aspect of your project.
Q: I’ve never worked with a designer before, what is the process?
A: We start with an initial video consultation, where we talk you through our process and pricing structure. If you are happy to proceed, we then arrange an initial site visit to your property, allowing us to provide an accurate design fee. The design process begins with a detailed design meeting, where we discuss all your wishes and survey the space at the same time. We then develop the designs and, a few weeks later, present them along with the estimated costs. If you would like any revisions, we make the necessary adjustments. Once you have approved the designs and costs, we order the products and book the contractors. Finally, we oversee the installation and deliver all items, ensuring your new space is ready for you to enjoy.
Q: How do I purchase the items you have specified for my project?
A: At Fiona Bateman Interiors, we add value by only taking on projects that we can manage from design to completion. We will invoice you for all the items carefully sourced for your unique project and place the necessary orders on your behalf. We check stock levels, sign for deliveries, inspect for any damages, and store your products until the installation is complete. All our products are sold at RRP to ensure the price you pay is fair. For suppliers who do not offer an RRP, a small handling fee is included. Over the years, we have built strong, trusted relationships with our suppliers, and this approach allows us to maintain a viable and efficient service. We act as an agent between you and the individual retailers, so any guarantees lie directly with them.
Q: What is your return policy?
A: The return policy varies between individual retailers. As your agent, we will discuss these terms with you on a case-by-case basis. Please note that bespoke items are non-refundable.
Q: Do you have a minimum size project?
A: For our full design, supply and installation service, the smallest project we take on is a complete room. This ensures continuity and allows us to maintain the high standard of design and execution you expect.
Q: Can you provide references?
A: Absolutely. Many of our past clients are happy to share their experiences of working with us, giving you confidence in the quality of our work and the care we take throughout each project.
Q: Is my budget enough for what I want to achieve?
A: We understand that discussing budget can feel daunting, as there is sometimes a fear that a designer will try to spend as much as possible. The reality is that it is very difficult to create a successful design without understanding your investment. For a full room, depending on size and specification, we recommend a minimum investment of £25,000 to achieve a space we can both be proud of.
Q: How much input will I have and how involved do I need to be during the process?
A: Our work is a collaboration, and your input helps us create a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle. You can be as involved as much or as little as you like, and we will guide you every step of the way. We simply ask that clients are available and responsive when we have questions, so the process can move forward efficiently.
Q: What if I’m unhappy with the design?
A: We take a very detailed brief at the start of every project to ensure we create a design you’ll love. In the rare instance that an item doesn’t meet your expectations or the price isn’t quite right, the design fee includes one round of amendments, allowing for a small number of changes to ensure you are happy with the final design.
Q: Do I need to use your architect or contractor/sub-contractors?
A: We work closely with many architects and contractors and can provide guidance to your chosen team to ensure the best interior solutions for your home. If you prefer, we can also suggest trusted professionals we have successfully worked with on previous projects. On the rare occasion that we need to work with a company new to us, we will always discuss and agree this with you first.
Q: Will you manage the whole project?
A: Our project coordination service ensures we oversee a large portion of the construction and installation process. However, we are not full-time project managers and cannot be on site all day, every day. For larger projects or if full-time on-site management is important to you, we recommend engaging a dedicated project manager.
Q: How long will my project take?
A: Project timelines vary depending on size and complexity. A single room refurbishment, including the design process, typically takes around 3-4 months, depending on supplier and contractor availability. Larger projects, such as a full house build, can take 2 years+.
Q: Can I pause my project at any time?
A: We understand that circumstances can change, and occasionally a project may need to be paused. In such cases, any additional time required will be charged. Please also note that supplier prices cannot be guaranteed and may increase, and contractors originally scheduled may no longer be available, which could lead to changes in your project team or revised timings. Your project can resume when we next have availability, which may not be immediately.
Q: Will you photograph my project?
A: From time to time, we professionally style and photograph projects at our own expense to feature in our portfolio. This helps us showcase the work we have created together and allows future clients to see our design approach. We ask for your support in allowing photography to take place, and your privacy and personal information will always be fully protected. We greatly appreciate your cooperation in helping us celebrate our work.
