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FAQ
Welcome to our FAQ, designed to provide you with all the informations you may need on our interior design services.
We believe in transparency and want to ensure that all your questions find answers.
Should you have any lingering questions, feel free to reach out directly.
Does AH Design Studio also provide general contracting services? AH Design Studio focuses mainly on the design phase of the project and does not have an RBQ license. However, we do work with several licensed general contractors and have contacts for every construction trade needed. We also offer project management services. Meaning, if you do not wish to hire a GC for your renovation project, AH Design Studio can hire the necessary trades and manage the flow of construction for you.
Why do I need an Interior Designer? Three main reasons: 1) to save money, 2) to save time 3) to provide you with the space you need. Just like any major investment, planning the details and making important decisions in advance can save you a lot of money. AH Design Studio specializes in analyzing cost-benefits of renovation, and ensure that the design solutions will almost always increase your property's value. In addition, an interior designer specializes in designing for function and ergonomics, meaning that a well designed space will likely be much more functional for the occupants than without a design professional’s input.
What areas do you work in? We mainly take projects in the west island burrows of Montreal such as Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Kirkland, Pointe-Claire, Beaconsfield, Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, Pierrefonds, Ile Bizard etc. However, we are quite flexible on project locations. We have worked on projects in Hochelaga, Plateau, LaSalle, Verdun, NDG, Laval, Hudson, Blainville, Terrebonne and Brossard. If you're located outside the greater Montreal area and are interested in our services, contact us and we will let you know if we can take on your project.
Can you help me get a building permit? Yes, the construction documents we have produced have helped many customers get building permits for their home renovations.
What do I need to get a building permit for my extension? Although every municipality has their own bylaws, you will almost always need to provide the city with the following: plans, elevations, sections and samples of the exterior finish (if applicable). Some municipalities will require the architectural drawings to be stamped by an architect. In this scenario, we can help you design the interior, but will need to bring on one of our architects to complete the necessary drawings for the permit application.
How long does a design take to complete? That really depends on the size and level of complexity of the space. However, typically it takes between one and four months to go from the pre-construction consultation to delivering the preliminary design proposal.
What are your fees? That really depends on the size and level of complexity of the space. Every project is custom, therefore so are our fees. To get an estimate of what your design fees will cost you, please contact us with a description of your project, and we will get back to you as soon as possible with an approximate price.
How does your showroom work? Once your 2D and 3D design drawings are completed, we then schedule 1 or 2 showroom visits at our in-house showroom in Pierrefonds. Here, we look at samples and assemble sample boards and color schemes with our samples. After we have sourced all the different materials such as tiles, faucets, cabinets etc. we prepare a digital sample board along with a specification sheet. The specification sheet is like a shopping list. It contains all the different vendors, product codes, quantities and prices for your materials.
Do you order materials for our renovations? Absolutely! Once we have completed the showroom visit and have sourced all of your finishing materials, we coordinate with your contractor and take care of all the orders. This alleviates alot of time for both you and your contractor throughout the construction phase of the project.
What is the process? It all starts with a discovery call where we ask you a few questions about your project to better understand how we can help you. During the discovery call we book the in-person consultation. Consultation: During the in-person consultation, the goal is to gather information about the space, such as square footage, structural and plumbing constraints, etc. After the initial consultation, you will receive a quote for the design services you need. Once the letter of agreement is signed, and the deposit is paid, we are ready to book the on-site measurements. It is during the on-site measurements where we perform an in-depth site survey and measure up the entire space we are working with as well as take note of all structural, plumbing, electrical and mechanical requirements for the project. Design Phase: Once our measurements are taken, we can begin preparing the initial proposal. The initial design proposal consists of multiple options and solutions for your space. At AH Design Studio, we believe in taking the time to explore all of the spaces possibilities to ensure that we make the absolute best decisions during the design phase. After the you receive the initial proposal, we will meet over the course of multiple video calls to review and tweak the design until we reach a conclusion. Showroom: Once the main decisions for the project are made (usually in plans and 3Ds) we then meet at our in-house showroom. During our showroom visits, you will be greeted with a beverage, your plans and 3Ds will be displayed on a TV and you will be guided by one-on-one with an experienced interior designer who will put together a physical sample board for your new space live. Working Drawings: Once all of the materials are sourced and priced, we will begin preparing the working drawings for the construction phase. At the same time, together we will be shopping for different estimates from contractors. Once we have selected our contractor and booked the start of the project, we will coordinate the orders and deliveries of all of the finishing materials to arrive at the appropriate times. Construction: During the construction phase, we will serve as your consultant and as the contractor's administrative assistant to ensure that the initial design is being properly followed at that we are finding appropriate solutions to potential changes during construction. Décor: Once construction is complete, we will then guide you through the décor process to finally make your space feel like the dream we envisioned at the start. And lastly, we finish it all off with a photoshoot and a thank you gift!
Do I need to hire a moving company during my renovation? For small updates, you may be able to move furniture to other rooms. However, for larger renovations, hiring a trusted Montreal moving company can help you protect your belongings and keep your project on track. Movers can: 1) Pack and move your furniture off-site efficiently, 2) Prevent damage to your belongings from dust or accidental bumps, 3) Clear space so contractors can work efficiently and keep your project on track, and 4) Help unload and place your items back in the right spots once the project is complete.
What is the advantage of buying cabinets from AHDS? We simplify the process by offering a one-stop solution for all your needs. We provide a wide range of finishing materials essential to your project. Once you’ve finalized your material selections, we handle the entire ordering process and coordinate delivery schedules directly with your contractors to ensure a smooth and efficient experience from start to finish.
Do you do built-ins? Yes, we offer custom built-ins designed and tailored specifically to your space. Every project is thoughtfully planned to ensure a perfect fit that complements your home’s layout and overall design. We create custom built-in cabinetry that combines both practicality and style, enhancing the functionality while elevating the aesthetic of your space.
What 3D views will I receive as part of my project? You will receive 3D views of all the spaces being modified in the plans. These views will allow you to clearly visualize every design choice, including the layout, finishes materials, and built-in elements. They provide a realistic representation of the result, helping you understand how each space will look and function before construction begins.
How does sourcing work at AHDS? At AHDS, we offer a curated selection of materials and finishes directly from our office, making it easy for you to see, feel, and choose the best options for your project. Our offerings include flooring tiles, paint and finishes, lighting fixtures, plumbing, hardware, and built-ins. Please note that we supply these materials for the planned design and renovation work outlined in your project scope, ensuring that every element aligns perfectly with your vision.
What part of the stages of construction are we involved in? At AHDS, we focus on the design and planning stages of your project. We begin with a consultation and precise on-site measurements to fully understand your space and vision. From there, we create detailed plans, layouts, and specifications that act as a blueprint for your renovation or build, including finishes, materials, and fixtures. While we don’t carry out the construction ourselves, our plans guide your contractors so your project is completed smoothly, efficiently, and exactly as you envisioned.
What information should I prepare for our first meeting? For your first meeting with AH Design Studio, it’s helpful to bring any materials that give us a clear sense of your vision. This can include inspiration images or ideas, such as photos, magazine clippings, or links to spaces you love, as well as existing plans, layouts, or measurements you may already have. If your project involves an extension, please bring a certificate of location. It’s also useful to prepare a list of priorities, goals, or questions, so we can address your needs and guide you effectively. The more information you provide, the better we can tailor our design solutions to your space, style, and requirements.
What makes AHDS different from others? What truly sets AHDS apart is our ability to bridge the gap between creative vision and technical reality. While many firms offer only digital concepts, we provide a tactile showroom experience where you can touch your finishes and see your 3D designs come to life on a large scale. Having spent time working directly in the construction industry before moving to the design studio, we understand the "bones" of a building from the inside out. We don't just create beautiful renderings; we produce technically sound plans rooted in structural reality.