Frequently asked questions

Everything you want to know before we get started.

Questions I'm often asked by people working with an interior designer for the first time.

Don't see your question here? Feel free to send me a message.

Getting oriented, the interior designer and your project

What exactly does an interior designer do?

I translate your wishes into a complete spatial plan: layout, custom-made pieces, furniture, lighting, colors, materials and styling. From the first moodboard to the last accessory, with 3D visuals so you can see in advance how it will turn out.

What's your added value as an interior designer?

As an experienced interior designer, I look beyond the individual steps you may have already thought of yourself: I bring your wishes, your home and every element together into one concrete design. On top of that, you benefit from my network, purchasing advantages and guidance during the renovation.

What makes you different from another interior designer?

With me, you don't get a standard solution but a personal, eclectic approach with an eye for detail. Clients especially value my creativity and the ease with which I translate their wishes into an interior that makes them happy every day.

Do you have references or reviews from clients?

Yes, several clients share their experience on my website: how well they were listened to, the creative solutions, and the end result they still enjoy every day.

When should you bring in an interior designer — for a renovation, a new build, or even just to refurnish a single room?

You can hire me for a single room or for an entire house, whether it's new construction or the renovation of an existing home.

What kind of projects do you work on?

From compact city apartments to entire homes, villas and penthouses — both single rooms and full houses. Take a look at the projects to get a good sense of the style and scale.

Can I see previous projects or a portfolio?

Certainly — on the projects page of my website you'll find recent projects, from apartments in Rotterdam and Amsterdam to a villa in Bergen.

Pricing

What does an interior design project cost?

We agree on a fixed price for the concept phase up front. The elaboration is billed hourly, with an estimate of the hours and check-in moments agreed in advance. Transparent, with no surprises afterwards.

Is the cost of furniture and materials included, or is that on top?

The price only covers my services; furniture and materials are separate. However, I can often buy at a discount from many shops and brands, which benefits you.

Is there a minimum budget to work with you?

No, I don't work with one. Whether it's a single room or an entire house, I'm happy to think along within your budget.

Do I get a discount or purchasing advantage on furniture and materials through you?

Yes, definitely. I have arrangements with various suppliers that let me buy at better prices than if you ordered directly yourself.

What does a single consultation or a stand-alone styling session cost?

That depends a lot on your specific question. Feel free to get in touch, no obligation, and we'll discuss the options and costs.

Do you offer a free or no-obligation first conversation?

Yes, the initial introductory conversation or intake is always free. It's a chance for both of us to see if there's a good match.

Process and way of working

How does a project at MaeN interiors unfold?

In five steps: an in-home intake, a concept with moodboards and layout plans, the design with 3D visuals, the realization with my network of craftspeople, and finally the furnishing and styling. Take a look at the process for more details.

How long does a project take?

That depends on the scope. A single room can be finished within a few weeks; a whole home with custom work and renovation can easily take several months. I'll give you a realistic timeline during the intake.

Can I also just get advice, or take on part of the process myself?

Yes. Some clients just want a concept, or color and material advice, while others want to be guided through the entire process right up to the styling. We tailor my role to what you need.

Do you work with 3D visualizations or renders, so I can see in advance how it will look?

Yes, I work with moodboards and 3D visuals, so you can really see and feel what your space will become well before the work starts.

How much input or how many rounds of revisions do I get during the process?

After each phase I present that part of the design and you give feedback. We agree in advance how many revision rounds are included in the price, so it's clear for both of us.

Do you work together with contractors and suppliers?

Yes, I work with a fixed network of craftspeople, furniture makers and suppliers. You can have me guide the execution completely, or just take the design and carry it out yourself.

Do you put the agreements and costs in writing beforehand?

Yes, after the no-obligation introductory conversation, also known as the intake, you'll receive a tailored quote based on your wishes and requirements. You'll get this along with a project brief, as an initial summary, and the general terms and conditions.

What if I change my mind about the design partway through the project?

We exchange ideas often throughout the project, and there are several presentation moments built in. We also agree on the number of revisions in advance. My goal is always that you're happy with the design and how it's turning out.

Do I need to free up my own time during the renovation, or do you handle most of it?

That depends on the scale of the renovation, and whether you'll keep living at home or move out temporarily. I can take care of a lot of the coordination and stay in contact with the contractor. Everything can be arranged in consultation.

What about delivery times for furniture and materials — can that cause delays?

It can always cause delays. That's why it's important that we allow enough time for the whole process. Every phase takes its own time, and with orders we need to account for lead times. Large furniture pieces, kitchens and other custom-made items can often have lead times of 8 to 12 weeks.

Style and specialization

What's your style?

Warm and distinctive: rich colors, beautiful materials, and old furniture alongside new finds. No showroom style, but an interior that's unmistakably yours.

Can you work in my style, or do you mainly design from your own signature look?

I work with a mix of styles, and your own taste definitely plays a role in that. The only condition: don't be afraid of color.

Do you have experience with specific spaces, such as a kitchen, bathroom, office or practice space?

Yes, by now I've designed all kinds of spaces: bathrooms, kitchens, living and bedrooms, children's rooms, but also commercial spaces such as a pedicure salon. Both private homes and business premises are possible.

Do you only work on homes, or also on business and commercial spaces?

I mainly work on homes, but I've also done commercial projects and I'm certainly open to more of them.

Practical and logistical

Which regions do you work in?

I work from Amsterdam and Málaga. Previous projects include Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Bergen, De Meern, Maassluis and Spain. Further afield is negotiable.

Do you work on-site, or also remotely through online interior advice?

Both are possible. My preference is an on-site visit, but online interior advice and individual consultations work just as well.

Can you also work remotely for clients who don't live in the Netherlands?

My working area is mainly the Randstad in the Netherlands, as well as the Málaga region in southern Spain. Online advice is definitely an option. Get in touch with me if you'd like to know more.

Can I work with my own furniture, or does everything need to be new?

Absolutely. If you have beautiful pieces with a story, or simply (fairly) new ones, I'm happy to incorporate them into the design, though sometimes we do have to say goodbye to something that no longer fits.

How sustainable or circular is your way of working — think secondhand furniture or local makers?

I like working with local partners and think vintage finds make a lovely addition. If you have specific sustainability wishes, I'm happy to give them extra attention.

Contact and next steps

How do I make an appointment?

Through the contact form, via WhatsApp, or just an email to martijn@maeninteriors.com. The consultation is free and no-obligation.

What do you need from me to get started, such as a floor plan, photos or a Pinterest board?

A floor plan is handy to have in advance; I take the photos myself, though it's welcome if you send some beforehand. A moodboard on Pinterest is also very welcome.

How quickly can you start after signing up?

I can often schedule a first appointment on short notice. If I happen to be busier, I'll simply let you know.

Contact

Let me know what you're dreaming of.

I'm happy to think it through with you. Book a free, no-obligation consultation, and together we'll look at how to make it a reality.

martijn@maeninteriors.com +31 6 50987586

Amsterdam — Málaga

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