What interior design services does Studio Fridae offer?

Studio Fridae offers commercial, residential, and hospitality interior design — from new builds and full renovations to concept exploration. We also design custom furniture and lighting in-house, giving each project a one-of-a-kind character.

Where is Studio Fridae based, and do you work nationwide?

We are based in the United States and work with clients nationwide. Whether your project is local or across the country, we can collaborate remotely and travel to site as needed throughout the design process.

How much does an interior design project cost?

Every project is unique, so fees are tailored to the scope, scale, and complexity of your space. After an introductory conversation, we share a proposal outlining the project phases and fee structure so you know what to expect before any commitment.

How long does a typical interior design project take?

Timelines vary by scope — a single-room renovation may take a few months, while a ground-up build can span a year or more. We establish a project schedule during schematic design and keep you informed at every milestone.

What is Studio Fridae's interior design process?

Every project moves through four phases: Schematic Design (consultation, site visit, mood board), Design Development (materials, 3D renderings, custom millwork), Construction Documents (technical drawings and specifications), and Construction Administration (site visits, submittal review, contractor coordination).

Does Studio Fridae design custom furniture and lighting?

Yes. We design custom millwork, furniture, and lighting in-house whenever an off-the-shelf piece will not do. This lets us tailor each element to the space — from a built-in banquette to a hand-forged pendant.

How do I start a project with Studio Fridae?

Fill out the inquiry form on our contact page or email us directly at hello@studiofridae.com. Share a few details about your space, timeline, and goals, and we will reach out to schedule an introductory conversation.

Do you offer a consultation before a formal proposal?

Yes. Every project begins with an introductory conversation — a call or visit to understand the scope, budget, and goals. If we are a good fit, we then share a tailored proposal outlining scope, phases, and fees.

Do I need a licensed interior designer?

It depends on your state and your project. In California, designers who submit construction documents for permits need specific qualifications. For a furnishings-only project, licensing is less critical. For a project involving construction, ask whether the designer can submit drawings for permits and what credentials they hold.

How to Hire an Interior Designer: Questions to Ask Before You Sign

Hiring an interior designer is a significant investment of money and trust. The right designer makes the process smooth and the result better than you imagined; the wrong one turns your project into a source of stress. This guide covers what to look for in a portfolio, the questions to ask in a first consultation, the red flags to watch for, and what a good contract should include — so you can evaluate any designer, including us, with confidence.

Mariscos El Güero wide-angle view of the main dining area — hospitality interior design in San Bernardino, CA by Studio Fridae

What should you look for in a designer's portfolio?

Range vs. one-trick-pony

A strong portfolio shows range — different styles, different project types, different scales. A designer who only does one look may be excellent at that look, but if it is not your look, they are not the right fit. Look for adaptability.

Real project photos vs. renderings only

Renderings are concepts; photos are reality. A portfolio that is all renderings tells you the designer can draw but not necessarily execute. Look for real photos of completed projects — and look for the details (hardware, trim, junctions) that show whether the execution matches the concept.

Bandoleros Café — full dining room with hanging greenery pergola — hospitality interior design in Huntington Beach, CA by Studio Fridae

See our real project work in Mariscos El Guero and Bandoleros Cafe. — and look for the details (hardware, trim, junctions) that show whether the execution matches the concept.

Before and after

Before-and-after photos show what the designer can do with a problem space. If every project starts from a blank canvas, you do not know how they handle constraints.

What questions should you ask in a first consultation?

What is your process? A good designer has a defined process — schematic design, design development, construction documents, construction administration. If they cannot articulate it, they do not have one.
What is the timeline? Ask for a realistic timeline and check if it fits your schedule. A designer who promises unrealistically fast delivery is setting you up for disappointment.
Who sources the furniture? Some designers source everything; others expect you to buy from their list. Know what you are getting.
What is your change-order policy? Changes mid-project are the most common source of budget disputes. Ask how changes are priced and documented before you sign.
Can I see references? A confident designer gives you references willingly. Call them and ask about communication, budget management, and whether the result matched the concept.

What are the red flags?

No contract. A designer who works without a contract is a designer who cannot be held accountable. No contract, no project.
Vague pricing. If the designer cannot tell you how they charge (hourly, flat, percentage) or give you a range, they are either inexperienced or hiding something.
No references. If a designer cannot provide references from past clients, walk away.
Pressure to sign immediately. A good designer gives you time to review the proposal and think it over. High-pressure tactics are a sign of desperation, not confidence.
No insurance. For projects involving construction, the designer should carry liability insurance. Ask for a certificate.

What should a good contract include?

Scope of work. Exactly what the designer will do — and what they will not do.
Fee structure. How and when the designer is paid (hourly, flat, percentage, milestones).
Payment schedule. When payments are due and what triggers them.
Change-order process. How changes to the scope are documented and priced.
Project timeline. A realistic schedule with milestones.
Termination clause. What happens if either party ends the relationship early.
Intellectual property. Who owns the drawings and designs — you or the designer.

What is the difference between an interior designer and a decorator?

A decorator works with surface-level aesthetics — paint, furniture, accessories. An interior designer works with space planning, building codes, and construction documents. Designers can typically submit drawings for permits; decorators cannot. For a project involving construction, you need a designer.

Here is what to look for — including in us. We are transparent about our process, our pricing, and our references. If you want to see if we are the right fit, reach out for a consultation. For cost context, see our guide on interior designer cost in Orange County, and for design context, see our guide on modern interior design.

From Our Portfolio