Decca Design FAQs
Which services do you provide?
We are unique in the market in that we offer both custom design and interior design, as well as overall project management. Whether it’s a new home build, a home renovation, or a commercial design, we can manage every stage of the project from conceptualization and planning through design, building, and furnishing. Our residential and commercial clients expect nothing but the best and work with us for our attention to detail and uncompromising, personalized service.
How much do you charge? Do you quote on a square foot basis?
We typically work on a flat fee basis, although we do also work hourly, depending on the needs of the project.
There are anywhere from 1,000 – 1,500 decisions to be made in a typical custom home build, regardless of square footage. The size of the space doesn’t have a significant impact on the selection of materials and finishes or on the amount of time required to make those decisions.
For instance, in every custom home build we select material for the kitchen floor. That single decision doesn’t change whether amount of flooring ordered is 200 square feet or 1,000 square feet.
What does your fee include?
Our services vary according to the unique needs of the project and client, and are outlined in our detailed proposal prior to commencing the design of your project. Each project is one-of-a-kind and has unique requirements but will generally include a combination of one or more of the following:
- Initial concept feasibility and creative brainstorming
- Individual design and conceptual drawings
- Development and building permit packages
- Construction drawings (site plans, floor plans, elevations, perspectives, etc.)
- Interior design and 3D perspectives and/or hand drawn artistic renderings
- Selection of materials, finishes, and fixtures
- Pre-construction planning and documentation
- Specification documents
- Ongoing project management
- Sourcing furniture, upholstery, fabrics, and accessories
Who will we be working with? Who will handle our account?
Every project has two “go to” people for the project. The first is Decca’s principal and project lead, Jennifer Brown. She works one-on-one with each of our clients. An additional team member is also assigned to each project so that you can always speak with someone fully knowledgeable and up-to-date on your specific project whenever you have questions.
Do you have an architect on staff?
Decca Design does not have an architect on staff but Decca’s professional family includes various consultants, including architects, engineers (structural, electrical, etc.), and building consultants. We only work with the most reliable and skilled professionals who we bring in for various stages of the design process, if required.
How long does it usually take to complete the design?
The timeline depends on the type, size and complexity of your project. We outline the expected schedule in our detailed proposal but you, as the client, dictate the actual timeline. Do you know what you want? What is the finished look? Do you make decisions quickly? How many decision makers are involved in the process?
Will you help us get our development and/or building permits?
Yes, our design service includes all of the drawings you need to apply for a development permit (giving you permission to develop) and your building permit (the detailed specifications of exactly what you plan to build)
How long does it usually take to complete the interior design?
The interior design stage typically takes anywhere from eight to 10 weeks, including approximately 10 to 12 client meetings.
Can the interior design process move faster than the typical 8 to 10 weeks?
Yes, this time can be reduced if needed but we’ve found this schedule helps prevent overwhelm and ensures that you don’t feel rushed to make decisions. After all, you’ll be spending a significant amount of time and money to design this space.
That’s why our clients appreciate both our extensive library of samples and our years of experience. We promise to help guide you to the best materials and finishes to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Can’t we go look at samples ourselves?
Yes. The advantage of our extensive samples library is that you don’t need to drive to several different suppliers or showrooms to see the full range of finishes available for your home.
We gather everything together in one place, eventually creating a colour board showing how all of your selections work together.
In addition, many suppliers will charge you to take a sample out of their showroom (for example, to compare it with other finishes to make sure they look good together).
What if we want something special that you don’t have in your library? Or from a supplier you don’t deal with?
No problem. You are free to source other products that we can then investigate and incorporate into the design. The market is constantly evolving and new products are introduced every day. We work with you to make sure you are satisfied with all products used in your project.
We use our library as a starting point and we then call upon many suppliers to locate the perfect match for your project.
Do we have to commit to a “green” or sustainable building if we work with you?
No, our LEED accreditation enhances our work but doesn’t define (or restrict) it. Also, a building doesn’t have to be LEED certified to reap the benefits of sustainable materials and building practices. For clients interested in green building, whether for health, cost or environmental reasons, we can guide you on locally sourced options, low emission products, sustainable materials, and energy saving features.
Will you help us with the tender process?
Yes, because all of your building and product selections are documented, in detail, with our Exacting Project Control System, we can tender bids knowing that you can do an apples-to-apples comparison of the quotes.
We can manage a tender for your project if it is a requirement of funding or bank approval, or if you are looking to ensure the best pricing and trades for your project.
Can you oversee construction?
Yes, if you have a general contractor for your project we can continue to act as your representative and oversee the execution of your project.
We can attend site meetings and be available for questions and clarifications as needed. We can also participate in walk-throughs to ensure your design decisions and selections have been implemented correctly.
How long have you been in business?
We’ve been working with Calgary homeowners and businesses since 1999. See About Decca to learn more about our history and our team.
Do you have professional liability insurance?
Yes. Your asset is safe with us. We will review this information with you in relation to your specific project.
Do you speak any language other than English?
Yes, we also speak French.
Do you do work outside of Calgary, AB, Canada
Yes, we offer virtual design consultations and meeting for our clients based out of city, province and country. We pleased to extend our services to encompass Alberta, Canada and the USA.
Can you provide references?
Yes, we welcome you to talk to our past clients to learn about the full project experience from their perspective. You can also visit How We Work to learn more about each step of the design/build process, or take a look at our portfolio to see a selection of our past work.