Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working with LuLa
We know that commissioning an interior designer for the first time can feel like a big step — and that having the right information makes all the difference. Below you will find answers to the questions we are asked most often. If there is something we haven't covered, please don't hesitate to get in touch — we are always happy to have a chat.
Where do you work?
We are based in the Vale of Belvoir and work with clients across Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and the wider East Midlands. If you are not sure whether we cover your area, just ask — we are always happy to discuss travel further afield for the right project.
How does the process work?
Every project starts with an initial conversation — either by phone or email — where we find out a little more about you, your home and what you are hoping to achieve. If we think we can help, the next step is a home visit where we come and see the space in person, ask lots of questions and start to get a feel for the project. From there we put together a proposal setting out our recommended approach and our fees. You can read more about how we work on our Our Approach page.
How much does interior design cost?
Every project is different, so costs vary depending on the scope and scale of what you are looking to do. We offer three levels of service — Design Essentials, Full Room Design and our Bespoke Design Service — to suit a range of budgets and requirements. We are always transparent about costs from the very beginning so there are never any surprises. You can find full details of our services and fees on our Services page.
Do I need a big budget to work with an interior designer?
Not at all. Whilst we do work on larger whole home projects, we also work with clients on individual rooms and smaller briefs. Our Design Essentials service is specifically designed for those who want expert guidance and advice without committing to a full design project. Whatever your budget, we will always be honest with you about what is achievable and how we can help.
How long does a project take?
Again this varies enormously depending on the scale of the project and how quickly decisions are made and items are ordered. A single room project might be completed within a few months, whilst a larger whole home project could take considerably longer. We will always give you a realistic timescale at the outset and keep you updated throughout so you know exactly where things stand.
Will you work with furniture and pieces I already own?
Absolutely — and we love to. One of the first things we ask our clients is whether there are pieces they already own and love that they would like to incorporate into the new design. Whether it is a favourite armchair, a piece of inherited furniture or a painting with personal significance, we will always look for ways to work with what you already have.
Do I have to be available throughout the project?
We manage the entire process on your behalf, so you don't need to be hands-on at every stage. We do ask that you are available for key decision-making moments — approving the design concept, signing off on furniture selections and so on — but beyond that we take care of everything so you can get on with your life and simply look forward to the reveal.
Do you offer a virtual or online service?
Our Design Essentials consultation can be carried out virtually for clients outside of our usual area. For larger projects we prefer to work in person as there is so much you can learn from being in a space — but please do get in touch to discuss your specific situation and we will always try to find a way to help.
What areas of the home do you design?
We design all rooms — from primary bedrooms, guest bedrooms and dressing rooms to living rooms, drawing rooms, home offices, garden rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. We also work on whole home projects where multiple rooms are designed as a cohesive scheme. If you have a space that needs some love, we would love to hear about it.
How do I know if LuLa is the right fit for me?
The best way to find out is simply to get in touch. We only take on projects we are genuinely excited about, and we always have an honest conversation at the outset to make sure we are the right fit for each other. Interior design is a collaborative process and the relationship between designer and client matters enormously — so if it feels right from the start, it almost always is.