faq

Everything! We work in historic homes, vacation homes, new construction and a la carte design challenges. We are happy to consult on design as well as oversee the construction. We offer full-service design—including space planning and room layout, sourcing and procurement of materials and management of buildout.

We work with clients across the country. Being based in Cleveland, OH and Detroit, MI, the studio services many clients within our communities and neighboring suburbs. We've recently completed projects in Florida, Colorado, New York City, Georgia, Chicago and California.

All projects kick-off with a complementary design consultation. Following an in-person meeting, a design proposal is submitted outlining project scope, timeframe and associated design fees. Once a project agreement is approved, the project will be placed into the studio schedule and the design process will begin. Projects are billed monthly. Product deposits are required for the purchasing of any design materials. 

The bldc team travels for new, unique and trending resources. We foster good relationships to obtain fair pricing on new-to-market and on-trend quality products. Our source library features the latest designs and is thoughtfully maintained through the help of our vendors. Our team values inspiration—we visit High Point Market, Chicago Merchandise Market, the Lighting Show, the Vegas Design Show, NKBS and New York City.

Yes, we work in the commercial space. We have designed offices, yoga studios, doctor and dentist offices, boutique hotels, restaurants, and a children's performing arts center.

Throughout our careers, we've identified valuable partners and resources for their timeliness and quality of work. Our select group of trade partners include construction, tile, carpet, painting, window treatments, upholstery work, carpet installation, wallpaper hanging, and more. We have a mutual understanding of quality and professionalism with our partners. We are also open to working with new resources.

The studio is led by designers Linda Mauck Smith and Dawn Cook, and supported by a curated team of design-minded professionals. A Lead Designer oversees each project with care, communicating with the client and managing the team to execute the design. A dedicated Design Assistant and in-house staff manage procurement, orders, billing, installs and deliveries.

We work to define the scope upfront. Included in contract are defined work responsibilities, purchasing practices, trades relationships, design fee and payment options. Once a contract is signed, a retainer is requested to enter the bldc queue of new work.