"Tess is wonderful and exactly what I wanted. Over the years we've collected lots of "things" - oriental rugs, artwork, travel finds, etc. And I love the outdoors, indoor plants, and lots of greenery. I've shied away from interior designers,, having heard tales of total makeovers with new everything, budget overruns and personal bias. I really wanted someone who could work with precious things I have or need, and at the same time could help me part with some things I thought I couldn't get rid of. I also needed a serious jolt of creativity and color. Tess to the rescue! She listens and has the patience of a saint. She came equipped with all kinds of samples to help me hone the "look". She was realistic about my budget, sensitive to my needs. Her talent defies description. I immediately signed on for a second project, the master bedroom. I will return to her again for more specific treatments around the house. I can't recommend her highly enough."
"Division we had for our dining room was achieved. We had cabinetry and bookshelves in our dining room that were replaced by curio cabinets, and totally repainted to match our furniture. US pro painting did a wonderful job with flawless painting, reinstallation of lower cabinets and installation of new curio glass cabinets. JR, the owner, was very cooperative, and provided photos at each step of the renovation, since we were away during that time. If we have a painting or renovation project, we will use them again."
"The designer from Abode,Kathy, fully explained what her services would be and what the cost was...after having met several times and and going over some basic concepts I think this is a going to be a great partnership"
"Brian is great. Came down to assess the damage and was back in 2 days with a new window. He also fixed a broken screen at no charge. Definitely would recommend."
"It is a very easy process. Block takes care of everthing. The contractor was amazing. The catalog of fixtures was good. The designer was great. t made the process of remodeling our bathroom painless. We didn't have to spend too much time worring about the project. Would recommend them and use them again."
"I was most impressed by her ability to interpret what we would like with her design, it is amazing what she got to do with her design, she is professional, enthusiastic, and most of all very talented we were blown away."
"Glen is a just an excellent carpenter. He is a creative, efficient, and artistic problem solver. I hired him to install some cabinetry that came without instructions and had been partially installed by someone else. He did a fantastic job - he is a real expert. I will hire him again for my next project."
Interior Design and Decorating questions, answered by experts
It depends on the scope of the project and your confidence in your own design capabilities. If you’re simply replacing a few appliances or want to change the cabinetry, you most likely do not need a designer. If you’re doing a full reno, you should bring in a pro unless you have a very strong design sense and want to spend hours laboring over the various technical details.
Professional holiday decorating services cost between $300 and $2,500 or more, with an average cost of about $1,500. The total price depends on the size of your home, the extent of the work, your location, and whether materials are included. Simple interior decoration may cost around $300, while a combination of interior and exterior work often totals around $800. For large or extensive design services, you could pay $2,500 or more. Common service costs can include: exterior holiday light installation ($400), Christmas tree decoration ($200–$600), interior holiday design ($50–$200 per hour), and holiday landscaping ($50–$100 per hour). Note that some prices may only include labor, not the cost of the decorations themselves.
Yes, many providers offer design consultations to help optimize and maximize space, functionality, and usage. It is recommended to confirm the availability of this service with your specific installer or contractor.
Current trends in custom furniture design are heavily influenced by a desire for sustainability and functionality, often incorporating reclaimed or eco-friendly materials. There is also a focus on multifunctionality, allowing pieces to adapt to various needs and spaces.
Professionals often use extra materials that aren’t included in traditional tree decorations, like pins and more expensive wired ribbon that can be carefully shaped. But even without these elements, you can improve your decorating by taking a few professional cues.
Always start by picking an overall theme, including colors, types of ornaments, and the overall feeling or message you want to create. Fluff your tree to its fullest potential, and include a generous amount of garlands, lights, ornaments, and bows to complete the look. Professional trees tend to be very “full” and well-balanced, with only a couple of ornament types to help the decorations flow.
The Newton Upper Falls, MA homeowners’ guide to interior design and decorating services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The cost to paint the interior of a house in Boston, MA depends on size, layout, type of surface, and more. Learn what factors can influence your total in this guide.
Find out how much an architect costs in Boston, MA. Learn what you can expect to pay for local design services and start planning your dream project today.
Interior decorators elevate a home’s look with coordinated wall art, paint, furniture, and accessories. Here is everything you should know before you hire one.
Thinking like an interior designer isn’t so difficult with the right tips in your back pocket. Create your dream home with these pro designer-inspired ideas.
If you’re shaping raw space or renovating, hire an interior designer. If you’re furnishing or freshening up an existing room, opt for an interior decorator.
