Frequently Asked Questions

The average rate for an interior design consultation in the DMV area varies depending on the designer’s experience, service level, and project complexity. In areas like Chevy Chase, Bethesda, and throughout the DC–Maryland–Virginia region, consultation fees often range from $500–$900 for a standard session. These meetings are typically structured to give clients an initial sense of direction, review design goals, and determine project fit.
At Lindsey Abrams Design, our consultations are scheduled after an initial discovery call. Unlike brief meet-and-greet visits, these are two-hour working sessions designed to give you meaningful value from the start.
You’ll walk us through your home, share your lifestyle needs, and discuss your aesthetic preferences. We help identify what’s working and what isn’t, explore your functional goals, and review any inspiration images you’d like to share. This allows us to interpret your vision clearly and begin shaping a design direction that reflects your style.
We also explain our full-service design process, answer your questions, and begin outlining the initial scope of work for your project. After the consultation, you’ll receive a detailed design services agreement that outlines the next steps and the retainer required to officially begin your project.
The Washington D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia region, with its rich tapestry of historic charm and contemporary innovation, inspires a thoughtful mix of design styles. Transitional styles continue to resonate, blending classic forms with modern simplicity, while traditional elegance, minimalist restraint, and curated eclecticism also thrive. Palettes range from subtle, textured neutrals to vibrant, story-driven hues. Across all styles, there’s a focus on refined details, smart storage solutions, and spaces that balance function with elegance. At Lindsey Abrams Design, this regional diversity informs our work, as we craft residences that harmonize timeless aesthetics, individual storytelling, and sustainable elements—creating spaces that reflect your unique style and are attuned to your lifestyle in the D.C. metro area.
An interior designer manages both the creative and technical sides of interior design to ensure a space is beautiful, functional, and thoughtfully executed. At Lindsey Abrams Design, our role goes far beyond selecting finishes or furnishings. We provide a comprehensive, high-touch process that guides your project from initial concept through final installation, whether you are planning a new build, a remodel, or a single-room transformation.
Design Strategy & Space Planning
We begin by understanding how you live and what you need from your home. From there, we develop a cohesive design concept, detailed space plans, and material selections that balance aesthetics, durability, and long-term value. Every decision supports how the space will function day to day while maintaining a consistent design vision.
Project Coordination
We prepare detailed construction drawings and specifications and collaborate closely with vetted architects, general contractors, and trades. You hold the construction contracts directly with them. Once construction begins, the general contractor manages daily site activity, while we oversee design compliance, answer design-related questions, and ensure the work aligns with the approved plans and intent.
Trusted Network of Professionals
Years of experience working throughout Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Potomac, Arlington, and Washington, DC allow us to assemble the right team for each project. This may include millworkers, custom furniture makers, upholsterers, lighting designers, AV consultants, and art consultants. We curate a team tailored specifically to your project’s scope and complexity.
Furniture, Art, Décor & Procurement Management
Interior designers manage the sourcing and coordination of furnishings, artwork, textiles, lighting, and decorative elements that bring a space to life. We access to-the-trade resources, place and track orders, coordinate deliveries, inspect items upon arrival, and resolve damages or returns. This ensures every piece—from large furniture to art and décor—arrives on time and meets quality standards.
Installation, Art Placement & Final Styling
We oversee installation and styling so furnishings, art, and decorative objects are placed with intention and balance. Artwork is scaled and positioned correctly, and décor layers are thoughtfully edited to create a finished, cohesive home that feels complete and lived-in, not staged.
Clear, Consistent Communication
Throughout the process, you receive regular updates, clear timelines, and concise decision requests. You stay informed and in control without managing daily logistics, schedules, or trade coordination yourself.
In short, an interior designer acts as your advocate, creative partner, and project guide. Our job is to translate your vision into a fully realized home, manage the many moving parts behind the scenes, and deliver a space where architecture, furnishings, art, and décor work together seamlessly.
Rather than focusing on discounts, we prioritize transforming your home and delivering exceptional results. Because we purchase directly from manufacturers, we offer custom, to-the-trade furnishings at a stronger value than typical retail—without compromising quality or craftsmanship.
At Lindsey Abrams Design, we source through a trusted network of vendors, artisans, and workrooms to curate pieces that reflect your style, elevate your space, and support the way you live. With a trained eye and years of experience, we consider scale, proportion, function, and materials when selecting every item so your home feels cohesive, intentional, and tailored.
Our long-standing relationships with our partners allow us to provide a level of customization, quality, and service that simply isn’t available at retail.
At Lindsey Abrams Design, we believe a luxurious home should also be livable. Many of our clients have active households with children, pets, and busy schedules—and they want spaces that look beautiful, function seamlessly, and stand up to real life.
With specialized training in textiles, materials, and finishes, we thoughtfully select furnishings that offer both elegance and durability. We have access to a vast array of beautiful, easy-care materials and are able to match your lifestyle with exactly the right products.
From fabric and layout to every functional detail, we design with your lifestyle in mind—so you never have to compromise on comfort, quality, or style.

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Lindsey Abrams Design offers more than beautiful luxurious interiors—we provide clarity, structure, and confidence throughout the design process. Our work is defined by thoughtful design, disciplined project management, and a deep respect for how our clients actually live. The result is homes that feel refined, functional, and enduring, not trendy or overdesigned.
Every project begins with careful listening. We take the time to understand your lifestyle, priorities, and long-term goals so the design reflects who you are and how your home needs to work for you. This intentional approach ensures each space feels personal and purposeful, with every decision made in service of both beauty and daily life.
Led by Principal Christine Lindsey Abrams, the firm brings an uncommon level of organization and leadership to residential interior design. Christine’s background in managing complex, high-stakes projects translates directly into a process that is structured, transparent, and calm. Clients value having a designer who not only creates a strong aesthetic vision, but also anticipates challenges, coordinates details, and keeps projects moving forward smoothly.
We are a full-service interior design studio, guiding projects from initial concept through construction coordination, furnishings, art, and final installation. Our long-standing relationships with trusted architects, contractors, and specialty trades across Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Potomac, Arlington, and Northwest DC allow us to assemble the right team for each project and ensure a high standard of execution.
What truly sets Lindsey Abrams Design apart is the experience we create for our clients. We manage the details, communicate clearly, and advocate for your vision at every step—so you can enjoy the process as much as the finished home.
Sustainability forms a core pillar of the philosophy at Lindsey Abrams Design, where we thoughtfully integrate eco-conscious choices into every project. We excel in selecting materials and furnishings that are responsibly sourced and environmentally friendly, fostering healthier living spaces and a lighter environmental footprint while maintaining exceptional beauty and durability. By favoring high-quality durable pieces, we minimize waste and the need for frequent replacements. Our commitment extends to enduring design principles: shaping interiors that transcend trends, embody your personal aesthetic, and evolve gracefully with you. This results in thoughtful, resilient homes that honor your values and support your way of life, both today and for years to come.
Our process is designed to keep your project running smoothly, with clarity at every step. While each project is tailored to your specific needs, full-service interior design projects generally follow these key phases:
1. Discovery Call
We begin with a complimentary phone call to discuss your goals, design preferences, budget, and whether we’re the right fit. We typically reach out within 48 hours of your initial inquiry.
2. In-Home Consultation
This two-hour, in-depth session allows us to walk through your space, understand your priorities, and outline the preliminary scope. If we’re a good match, we’ll send a scheduling link within 24–48 hours of your discovery call.
3. Site Documentation, Feasibility & Schematic Design
Once the design services agreement is signed and retainer is received, we take detailed measurements, capture photos, and conduct trade walk-throughs. This ensures feasibility and alignment with your budget. Initial schematic concepts are then developed.
4. Design Development & Presentation
We prepare scaled floor plans, elevations, renderings, and curated material and furnishing selections along with budget estimates. These are presented in one or more meetings, typically scheduled 6–8 weeks after the site documentation visit, depending on the project scope.
5. Project Implementation
Once designs are approved, we submit proposals, place orders, and coordinate with trades. We manage logistics, track deliveries, and oversee all moving parts. Timelines vary—custom furnishings generally take 6–12 weeks; renovations range from 8–24 weeks depending on the scale.
6. Installation, Styling & Final Reveal
After construction is complete and all items are received, we coordinate deliveries, install furnishings, hang art, style accessories, and complete the finishing touches. Installation is typically scheduled within 1–2 weeks of project readiness.
* Timelines are estimates and will vary based on the complexity of your project, contractor availability, and product lead times. A furnishing-only room refresh may take 3–4 months, while a full-home renovation can take 9 months or longer.
Why it works
Our phased approach, paired with meticulous coordination and transparent communication, keeps everything organized and your project on track—resulting in a refined, comfortable home without the stress of day-to-day oversight.
Absolutely. Coordinating renovations and managing project logistics is a core part of our Full-Service Interior Design offering. From early planning through final installation, we manage the details that keep complex projects moving smoothly, allowing you to stay focused on key decisions without taking on the day-to-day coordination.
Project Coordination (Not Contracting)
We prepare detailed construction drawings and specifications and collaborate closely with vetted architects, general contractors, and trades. You hold the construction contracts directly with them. Once construction begins, the general contractor manages daily site activity and construction execution, while we oversee design compliance, respond to design-related questions, and ensure the work aligns with the approved plans, selections, and overall design intent.
Established Professional Network
Through years of experience working throughout Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Potomac, Arlington, and Northwest DC, we maintain strong relationships with trusted architects, general contractors, millworkers, custom furniture makers, lighting and AV consultants, and other specialized trades. This allows us to assemble the right team for each project efficiently and thoughtfully.
Procurement & Logistics Management
We manage the ordering, tracking, and coordination of furnishings, materials, and finishes. This includes monitoring lead times, inspecting deliveries, and addressing damages or returns to minimize disruptions and protect the overall project timeline.
Design Oversight During Construction
We conduct regular site visits, provide timely responses to contractor questions, and address design-related issues as they arise. Our role is to protect design integrity, anticipate challenges, and resolve issues before they impact progress.
Clear, Structured Communication
You receive regular progress updates, clear next steps, and timely decision requests. Our process keeps you informed and in control while eliminating the burden of coordinating schedules, trades, and logistics.
Yes. As part of our design process, we provide floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings along with material and finish samples to help you visualize your space before any furnishings are ordered or installation begins. These tools allow you to clearly see how the layout, materials, colors, and furnishings will come together, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
We find this step especially valuable for clients who appreciate having a clear picture of the design direction. It’s one of the ways we ensure the process feels transparent, thoughtful, and tailored to your home.
Absolutely. Our Full-Service Interior Design offering scales from a single-room refresh to complete home transformations, including chef-caliber kitchens, spa-inspired baths, and everything in between. For new-construction builds, we collaborate closely with you and your builder to select finishes and fixtures that reflect your style and meet your functional needs. From there, we guide you through furnishing and accessorizing each space—so your home feels cohesive, elevated, and truly move-in ready.
How we make it happen:
- Deep expertise in kitchens & baths
  We tackle space planning, layout optimization, and custom cabinetry, then specify tile, countertops, plumbing, finishes, lighting, and appliances that marry beauty with performance. Precise drawings and specifications keep the construction team aligned, while our tight procurement and logistics oversight protects your timeline.
- Whole-home vision & phased planning
  Starting with an in-depth discovery session, we craft a room-by-room roadmap that translates your ideas into cohesive experiences—even when styles color palettes vary across spaces.
- Curated selections, zero overwhelm
  From architectural finishes and lighting to bespoke furnishings and art, we present clear, edited options and expert recommendations so you can decide with confidence and avoid costly delays caused by indecision.
- Seamless coordination with trade partners
  We work shoulder-to-shoulder with architects, general contractors, and specialist trades, monitoring progress and troubleshooting issues to ensure every detail is executed beautifully.
Absolutely. At Lindsey Abrams Design, collaboration is central to how we work. We regularly partner with architects, general contractors, and other professionals to ensure your project runs smoothly and that every detail—from structural elements to finishes and furnishings—is thoughtfully integrated.
With a strong background in project management, we’re skilled at navigating complex timelines, communicating clearly across teams, and advocating for your design vision throughout the process. Whether we’re brought in at the start of a renovation or mid-way through planning, we work seamlessly with your build team to deliver a cohesive, beautifully executed result.
We’re happy to help. While we frequently coordinate renovation projects, we also work with clients who need full-service furnishing and styling without any structural changes. Whether you’ve just moved into a new home or are ready to refresh your space, we can make it feel layered, polished, and complete with thoughtfully selected furniture, lighting, window treatments, art, and accessories.
We take the time to understand your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences, curating pieces that are both beautiful and functional. Our approach adds character and warmth, transforming blank slates into spaces that reflect your personality and support the way you live.
From the big picture to the finishing touches, we manage every detail to ensure your home feels cohesive, elevated, and uniquely yours.
Yes—Lindsey Abrams Design works with clients who live outside the Washington, DC area or are designing second homes, provided the project scope and location are a good fit. We offer the same high level of service for out-of-town projects, combining virtual collaboration with scheduled site visits to ensure every detail is thoughtfully managed.
While we take on select projects beyond the DC metro area, there are some locations where we may not be able to offer our full-service model due to licensing requirements or logistical constraints. If you’re interested in working together, we’d love to learn more about your project and can confirm early on whether your location is one we can support.
Every space we design is as unique as the client it’s created for. At Lindsey Abrams Design, we source from a trusted network of to-the-trade vendors, artisans, and workrooms to curate furnishings and custom pieces that reflect your style, elevate your space, and meet your practical needs.
With a trained eye and years of experience, we consider scale, proportion, function, and materials when selecting each item—ensuring everything we propose feels cohesive, intentional, and tailored to your home. We've built strong relationships with our vendor partners over time, which allows us to offer exceptional quality, customization, and service you won’t find at retail.
We regularly attend High Point Market and other leading trade shows to stay current with the latest offerings and to discover emerging designers and distinctive sources. Because we purchase directly from manufacturers, we’re also able to provide custom, to-the-trade pieces at a better value than what you'd typically find elsewhere—without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.
Every project starts with a complimentary discovery call, during which we’ll discuss your goals, budget, and overall fit for the project. Just click the Contact button above to schedule your call.
Getting started begins with our in-home consultation—a focused, two-hour working session where we take the time to understand your project in detail. You’ll walk us through your space, and we’ll talk about your lifestyle, functional needs, and design preferences to get a clear sense of what’s working and what could be improved.
You’ll have the opportunity to share inspiration images and ideas, which helps us begin shaping a design direction that reflects your personal style. We’ll also walk you through our design process, answer your questions, and begin outlining the initial scope of work.
Following the consultation, we’ll send you a detailed design services agreement outlining the next steps and the retainer needed to begin the project.

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Additional Questions?