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Chris Kittrell, CID
Allied Member ASID

Frequent Questions

The stress of an interior design project is enormous. As homeowners, we understand that good communication is paramount to a successful project. If you have additional questions, please contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions...

• Why should I choose Kittrell & Associates as my Interior Designer?
  
  

  Chris Kittrell is a Certified Interior Designer, (CID).  This means she had sufficient design education and experience to qualify to take the extensive CQRID exam, which tested her knowledge by a 4 hour written test and a 6 hour drafting test, both of which she passed.   In addition, she studied and passed the CA Building Codes test and then applied for and obtained her CID status.

  There is also a requirement to take ongoing CEU’s or Continuing Education Units, to maintain the CID status and this keeps Chris on the leading edge of design trends.

  Not all designers have the CID appellation, it is a sign of a serious, educated and experienced professional designer. 

• Chris is also an Allied Member of ASID. Why hire an ASID Interior Designer?
  
  

  Quoted from the ASID website:

  “When you hire an ASID member, you get an experienced practitioner who can solve problems, help you avoid costly mistakes and, most importantly, create an attractive, affordable space designed specifically to meet your needs.”

  “ASID members have the training and expertise to manage all the details of your project. They know the importance of listening to your ideas and understanding your needs. From consultation to planning to the finishing touches, they can help you every step of the way, explaining your choices and adding value to your budget.”

  “All members must agree to abide by the Society's Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct to maintain their membership.”

• What experiences make Kittrell & Associates the best choice for my project?
  
  

  Chris has designed new homes under construction ranging in size from 2,700 square feet to 11,000 square feet, throughout Southern California.  She is capable of reading blue prints and can analyze your spaces for optimum effectiveness and function, before they are built.  She knows the building and remodeling deadlines and has an efficient way of guiding Clients to resources to select plumbing fixtures, appliances, and all interior materials. This keeps her Clients ahead of general contractor deadlines, so keeps the process moving.

  There is a team spirit about the way Kittrell & Associates works in concert with the Clients, the Architect and the Builder for the best possible end result, and the goal of a positive working environment for all.

• What are some other qualifications of Kittrell & Associates?
  
  

  Chris has been an active participant in two Philharmonic House of Design showcases, volunteering her time to design the Home Office in Tustin 2005 and the Master Bath in Ladera Ranch 2006.  In 2007 she was the Assistant ASID Design Chair, for the Philharmonic House of Design, and in 2008 she was the ASID Design Chair for the Philharmonic House of Design, leading 27 other volunteer designers to complete the showcase house from framing to ready for the public in 6 months.  The home was 8,500 square feet and built by Stonefield Development.

  In addition, Chris was asked to join the Faculty of Interior Designer’s Institute, Newport Beach, where she now teaches two design classes.  In addition, she will be instrumental in helping the Director of the School develop a Masters Degree Program to be launched in 2011.  Chris holds a BA in Art Education, a Master’s in Business and an AA in Interior Design.

• How much experience does the company have? How long has it been in business?
  
  

  Chris Kittrell began this business in 1998 as a sole proprietor.  The firm has grown mostly by referral from very satisfied Clients or from General Contractors or Vendors and from Clients who have reviewed her work on this website.

  The firm is now incorporated as Chris Kittrell & Associates, Inc. doing business as Kittrell & Associates.  We have served over 200 very satisfied Clients and can provide references upon request.

• Has the company won any Awards?
  
  

  Yes, we have won three Gold Awards for Excellence in Kitchen Design, one for Excellence in Home Office Design and finally Home of the Year, under 3500 square feet, all as recognized by ASID and OC Home Magazine and ASID and Orange Coast Magazine.

• What is the design process all about? How does it work?
  
  

  Contact us regarding a phone discussion regarding your project. Set up an informal and complimentary one hour meeting to discuss the scope of work.

  At that time, we will listen and assess your needs and priorities. An estimated number of design hours and design fee will be provided. The contract will be explained.

  There is no obligation to proceed after that, but we hope you will!

• What happens first?
  
  

  This depends on the size and nature of the project.  If it’s home furnishings, we discuss your style , your budget, then do a space plan and a complete design recommendation, then establish a timeline.

  If your project involves remodeling or building,  we have several well-qualified builders and general contractors to refer you to for detailed bids.

  Again, a timeline is established and with everyone’s agreement the project is launched.

  We guide you through the process, as it pertains to your individual project, one step at a time.

• What are the design fees?
  
  

  Hourly rate is $175 and invoices are monthly. A retainer is taken to solidify the contract and the amount will depend upon the size of the project. We are known for our efficiency.

• What about discounts on furnishings?
  
  

  Some discounts apply on home furnishings depending on what trade resource discounts are afforded to designers.

  This will be discussed at the initial interview and confirmed in the contract. We have “Confirmations of Orders” on all purchases.

  Mark ups or discounts are all clearly defined and orders signed as approved by our Clients before anything is ordered. All sales are final.

• What size of jobs will Kittrell & Associates accept?
  
  

  Small to large. We are mostly seeking Clients who understand the value an Interior Designer can bring to them while they are investing money in building, remodeling or furnishing their home.

• How do we contact Kittrell & Associates?
  
  

  Our office phone is 949-737-5511, or click on the Contact Us tab just under our logo on any of the website pages.