Frequently Asked Questions

Explore answers to common questions about working with House of Shima, our interior design services, project investments, and what to expect throughout the design process.

Our Interior Design Services

  • House of Shima is a full-service interior design studio offering residential and commercial design services. From new construction and renovations to furnishings and finishing touches, we create thoughtfully curated interiors that reflect our clients' lifestyles, needs, and personal aesthetic. Our services include space planning, material and finish selections, custom furnishings, lighting, window treatments, and project coordination.

  • Full-service interior design is a comprehensive approach that guides a project from initial concept through final installation. At House of Shima, this includes developing the design vision, selecting furnishings and materials, coordinating with contractors and trades, managing purchasing, and overseeing the finishing details. Our goal is to create a cohesive, personalized space while simplifying the experience for our clients.

  • Yes. House of Shima provides interior design services for both residential and commercial environments. Our residential work includes whole-home projects, individual rooms, renovations, and new construction. We also design commercial spaces, with an emphasis on functionality, comfort, and creating environments that reflect each client's unique needs and identity.

  • House of Shima is based in Bethesda, Maryland, and serves residential and commercial clients throughout the Washington, DC metropolitan area, including Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Kensington, Georgetown, Spring Valley, the Palisades, McLean, Great Falls, Arlington, and Alexandria. We also consider projects outside the region depending on the scope and travel requirements.

The Design Process

  • Every project begins with a complimentary 30-minute discovery call. This initial conversation allows us to learn about your space, design goals, anticipated investment, and timeline. From there, we can recommend the most appropriate services and next steps for your project.

  • Ideally, an interior designer should be involved early in the planning process, before major architectural, construction, or finish selections are finalized. Early collaboration allows us to consider space planning, lighting, materials, furnishings, and architectural details together, helping create a cohesive design while minimizing costly changes later.

  • Yes. We collaborate with architects, builders, contractors, and skilled trades throughout the design process. This coordination helps ensure that design details, material selections, and installation requirements are thoughtfully integrated into the overall project. Our involvement varies depending on the scope of work and services selected.

  • Project timelines vary depending on the size, complexity, and scope of work. A single-room furnishing project may require several months, while a whole-home renovation or new construction project can extend considerably longer. During the initial consultation, we discuss anticipated timelines and the factors that may influence scheduling, including product lead times and contractor availability.

Project Investment and Getting Started

  • Interior design fees depend on the scope, complexity, and level of service required. House of Shima offers consultations, hourly design services, and comprehensive design packages tailored to individual projects. During our initial conversation, we discuss your goals and anticipated investment to help determine the best approach for your needs.

  • Interior design investments vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, the furnishings and materials selected, and the level of customization involved. A single-room furnishing project will naturally differ from a comprehensive renovation or whole-home design. During our initial discovery call, we discuss your goals and anticipated investment to help determine the most appropriate approach for your project.

  • Absolutely. In addition to comprehensive interior design services, House of Shima offers individual consultations and our Designer by Your Side packages for clients seeking professional guidance on a more focused scope. These options are ideal for those who need assistance with design decisions, furnishings, finishes, or bringing an existing space together.

  • We invite you to begin by scheduling a complimentary 30-minute discovery call. We'll discuss your project, design goals, anticipated investment, and timeline to determine how House of Shima can best assist you. We look forward to learning more about your space and helping you explore the possibilities.