Why should I engage a professional interior architect / designer?
Designing residential interiors requires a very focused skill set which encompasses and relates to structural boundaries, building code compliance, ergonomics, the use of sustainable materials, interior lighting as well as other various aspects of the built environment.
By engaging an Interior Designer you will ensure your likes, needs, lifestyle and budget are within the reality and requirements of your home or apartment whilst also ensuring the end result is more collected and unique.
As professional Interior Designers we are members of the Design Institute of Australia (DIA). As DIA members we must meet minimum requirement of experience in the interior design field and possess the appropriate balance of education, ethics, professional experience and ability.
What are the benefits of engaging a design and construct firm?
Whether you are renovating a single room or your entire home or apartment, the renovation process can be a very stressful process not to mention most people are extremely time poor these days and simply don’t have the time to invest that is required. Our studio provides a total and seamless solution by integrating its interior design services with individually handcrafted joinery and professional construction services. This means that you get a wealth of skills and areas of expertise and only have to deal with the one company when it comes to handling: Interior Design, Construction, Project Management and Interior Styling and Decoration.
Will I be given a copy of the plans during the design phase?
As a design and construct firm we retain full copyright of the design and only hand out working drawings / plans once an approved QBCC contract has been signed for the construction works. Our room design fees are therefore charged at a cheaper hourly rate and do not reflect ownership.
Whilst we do not hand out physical copies of the plans we do spend as much time as necessary going through the designs to ensure you understand each and every element. We also welcome you to come in and view the plans in our studio at any time.
How do we ensure everything remains within our budget?
It’s important that the designer ascertain a clear project budget as a part of the brief and prior to commencing the design process – otherwise they are flying blind. If you are unsure of the costs involved and would like to ascertain this prior to commencement we are able to perform a full feasibility study prior to the commencement of any design work. The feasibility study is provided at a small cost but will allow you to examine and breakdown the overall costs and budgets to allow you to evaluate the proposed project.
At the completion of the design phase you will be presented with a detailed quotation for the construction phase so that you ensure you have a clear picture of total costs before proceeding. A QBCC approved contract is signed for the construction phase of the project.
Do you offer feasibility studies for my potential project or renovation?
Yes. For a small cost we can provide you with a detailed feasibility for your project or renovation. This will allow you to evaluate the potential of a proposed project and assist in the decision making or budgeting process.
Will you work with my architect or building designer?
Absolutely. We often work with architects and building designers. Whilst we both share common knowledge, we will both bring to the table specific talents and abilities that relate to your project. The interior of a building evolves directly from the conceptual ideas of the building itself as is the building directly impacted by the design of the interior. So it’s imperative that these two elements work in harmony – so working together as a team will create the best final product.
Are you the builder? Do you organise all trades (plumbers, electrician, benchtops, splashbacks etc) for me?
Yes. We will make the process as easy and stress free for you as possible. The entire project including all trades will fall part of the one contract. As the builder we oversee and co-ordinate the entire project from start to finish. This ensures quality control and a smooth and seamless process with no confusion. With so many trades involved in kitchen, bathrooms and interior renovations it’s crucial that the person overseeing the project specializes in this field.
Are you licensed?
Yes, as a QBCC licensed builder, a licenced builder with NSW Office of Fair Trading, a member of the Kitchen and Bathroom design Institute (KBDI) and the Housing Industry Association (HIA) we carry a professional guarantee of quality and are bound by their individual mark of assurance for the industry standards.
Are you insured?
Yes. In addition to having the relevant builders license both in Queensland and New South Wales we also have all the relevant and necessary insurances in place including public liability and current workers compensation insurance. In addition each kitchen or bathroom project is covered by QBCC mandatory Home Owners Warranty Insurance.
Can you design and renovate my entire apartment?
We design and renovate a lot of apartments so we are very familiar with the challenges and opportunities that are specific and unique to apartments. We have extensive knowledge when it comes to understanding access, permissions, approvals and of course neighbours.
Can you renovate my entire house or apartment?
Yes. We can assist you with both the design and renovation of any room or your entire house or apartment. We specialize in renovations, extensions and additions and more importantly, Darren James Interiors are licensed to undertake these works.
Do you use environmentally friendly materials?
As a company Darren James Interiors are committed to increasing the use of environmentally friendly materials and practices.
Recycled materials: Promoting the use of recyclable materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, glass;
Low emissions: all constructive parts of Darren James Interiors cabinetry are E0 and E1 class for formaldehyde emission (low emission);
Sustainable products: all wood veneers feature sustainably farmed timbers;
Energy efficient products: commitment to specifying energy and water efficient products
Can you supply my appliances?
Yes, we are aligned with several appliance companies and receive very competitive prices. An important part of the design process is understanding your cooking requirements and our designers and appliance partners can assist you in the selection process. You may choose to organize your own appliances, however we do require them to be fully specified to finalise the design process as well as delivered to our factory before manufacturing commences to ensure the project remains on schedule.
Do I have to be home during the renovation?
No. It’s entirely up to you. You may decide to move out or go on holidays whilst the renovation is happening. Either way you can rest assured knowing your home will be in good hands, with strict key security measures in place, full supervision of the renovation and a team that will always respect your home and your privacy. You’ll have complete peace of mind working with Darren James Interiors.
How long will the renovation process take?
If it’s a typical kitchen renovation you will generally be without your kitchen for approx. 2-3 weeks and bathroom approx. 3-4 weeks. However it really depends on the extent and type of renovation work to be done. If you are relocating walls / services or combining rooms it can take a little longer. You’ll find Darren James Interiors run a very efficient manufacturing and construction schedule where the entire renovation is programmed out with timelines. We understand the importance of ensuring your project runs like clockwork and causes as minimal disruption to your lifestyle as possible.
Will my new kitchen or bathroom come with a guarantee?
Yes. All work carried out by Darren James Interiors is to the highest standards and exceeds today’s regulations and industry standards. The renovation is fully insured and then your kitchen or bathroom will also be covered by the QBCC mandatory warranty period of six and half years. That’s the benefit of using a reputable company like Darren James Interiors, giving you the peace of mind and certainty you deserve. We are also licenced by the NSW Office of Fair trading to complete projects in New South Wales.
Do you offer Interior Styling / Interior Decorating Services?
We sure do. If you are wanting to take your project to the next level we offer complete interior decoration and styling services for all your interior décor and furnishing needs. If commissioned we are qualified to provide decoration and styling services for any room within the home including floor and wall coverings, lighting, soft furnishings and other materials including furniture, ornaments, curtains, rugs, artwork, carpets, and other accessories for interior decoration.
What area do you service?
Based in Brisbane Australia we service all of Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. We have also provided design and if required construction services throughout Australia. We will go anywhere our services are demanded.