How We Work

Maria Comes to You

The initial appointment typically lasts about an hour. Larger projects may require more than one appointment. If you decide to work together Maria will take photos and video, and measure the space during the design appointment. If there are multiple areas to be measured, she may return another day.

Maria will request a complete walk through, and you should mention any other problem areas you may need to work on later. If you’re working on a residential space she may also ask to see your closet to get an idea of the colors and patterns you wear. This is a time to get to know each other and decide how to move forward.

Budget

People are often shy to discuss a budget, but for both parties it is by far one of the most important aspects of your initial consultation. You may not know how much things cost and we can work with you to determine a budget that accomplishes your overall project goals.

You may choose to work on one space at a time or an entire home or business. The investment will determine the furnishings Maria can include in the project. Fortunately, we have access to a vast array of products.  We have to the trade only pieces and custom upholstery and drapery. We also have imported furniture at different price points to help fit in anyone’s budget. We also offer a full range of commercial furnishings.

Making Selections

Every project presents its own unique set of circumstances. Maria prides herself on working side by side with you to accomplish your design vision. She’ll discuss the specifics of your project, help determine the budget and make some preliminary design suggestions.

Depending on the size of the project, she may be able to get started with just one meeting but generally a full room project (or larger) may require several appointments. At her studio, interior designer Maria Loveless will begin to plan out the space she is decorating and start to make selections for your individualized design.

Design Plan

Maria will present her ideas through a mixture of PowerPoint with floor plans, 3-D drawings and product images, and hand samples of products such as flooring, tile, drapery and furniture fabrics. If needed she can also drop samples at your home/office then talk to you via FaceTime or Zoom.

Maria will have worked with the budget that was agreed on earlier in the process and will be able to give pricing on all elements of the design project including installation.

As your products are ordered from a wide range of vendors, items arrive individually and are stored safely until everything arrives. Some things may arrive within weeks, custom items may take several months depending on fabric availability and production schedules. Maria will keep you informed throughout the process.

The Final Reveal

If you are having major renovations, you will see most of the work being done. But if you are having a room decorated, you can look forward to a surprise.

You’ve waited patiently for installation day, surely the most exciting day for both you and Maria! It is advisable to leave Maria alone in your home to supervise the sub-contractors who will install window treatments and hang light fixtures.

If you are having paint and wallpaper installed, that may happen earlier to avoid paint spills on your new furniture. Maria will call you to return home when everything is perfect. There is nothing nicer than having left your home in the morning then returning later to see the final reveal. Enjoy your new space — hiring an interior designer is worth every cent!

Maria Loveless and The L&L Design Team in Manassas, VA offer full service interior design services for residential and commercial projects of all sizes. Call 703-330-4451 today.