An interior designer shapes how a space looks, feels, and functions. We consider the project as a complete composition: reviewing layouts, materials, lighting, fixtures, millwork, furnishings, clearances, and transitions in relationship to one another rather than as isolated decisions.

As many decisions as possible are made, coordinated, and specified BEFORE construction begins. Drawings, schedules, and specifications give the general contractor and subcontractors clear information from which to price, coordinate, and build from.

This preparation reduces guesswork, last-minute decisions in the field, missed opportunities involving long-lead items, and the disappointment that can occur when important choices are made too late. Construction will always require some problem-solving, but a thoroughly developed design gives the entire team a shared roadmap.

An interior designer also brings a working knowledge of the market. We stay current on materials, products, furnishings, and fabrication methods; maintain relationships with trusted vendors, local tradespeople, and artisans; and provide access to resources clients may not otherwise encounter. Experience helps us recognize where an investment will make an impact, where a more economical choice will perform just as well, and which items require early attention because of lead times or availability.

Hiring an interior designer provides both creative direction and technical foresight - resulting in a space that feels cohesive, functions well, and can be carried through with greater clarity from the original idea to the finished project.

Full-Service Interior Design is best for clients seeking comprehensive involvement through design, construction, and installation.

Schematic Design establishes a focused creative direction without ongoing execution.

Furnishings + FF&E is for complete rooms or homes that primarily need furniture, lighting, textiles, art, and finishing layers.

If you are unsure, describe the project in your inquiry and Rift Sawn will recommend the appropriate service.

Whole homes, substantial renovations, and comprehensive furnishings projects are our primary focus. However, we reserve limited availability for smaller, clearly defined projects that offer strong creative potential.

These may include a kitchen, primary suite, or focused furnishings scope.

Earlier than most people expect.

For ground-up construction, the best time is before the architectural plans are finalized. For renovations, we recommend reaching out well before contractor pricing or construction begins.

Early involvement creates more opportunity to improve layouts, coordinate details, and make informed budget decisions before changes become costly.

You do not need to have everything figured out.

Share whatever is currently known: the location, approximate scope, desired timing, anticipated investment, and any available plans, photographs, or inspiration.

You also do not need to arrive knowing exactly what the space should look like or needs. We collaborate closely with our clients to uncover what matters most and bring clarity to each decision.

Full service means Rift Sawn is involved from early concept development through the detailed decisions required to realize the design.

Depending on the scope, this may include space planning, materials, fixtures, lighting, millwork, furnishings, documentation, coordination, procurement, construction involvement, and installation.

The exact scope is defined for each project proposal.

Schematic Design typically includes programming, preliminary planning, creative direction, an initial palette, important material or fixture concepts, and selected visual studies.

The final package provides a coherent foundation from which the project can continue.

It does not ordinarily include detailed construction drawings, final specifications, permit documentation, purchasing, or ongoing contractor coordination.

Potentially.

If the project and studio schedule align, Rift Sawn can prepare an additional scope for design development, documentation, furnishings, or construction involvement.

Continued availability should not be assumed unless it is discussed and reserved in advance.

Not necessarily.

Rift Sawn can become involved before the full project team is assembled and can help identify the professionals a project may require.

For construction projects, we collaborate closely with architects, contractors, engineers, and fabricators. Rift Sawn’s drawings communicate design intent. Depending on the project type and scope permit, structural, and code-related documentation may require to be prepared by the appropriately licensed professionals.

Yes. Some of our strongest projects begin with an established architect or contractor.

We value collaborative teams, clearly defined responsibilities, and early communication between everyone involved.

All Rift Sawn design services are billed hourly.

Because every project presents different needs, the anticipated scope and estimated hours are developed individually based on the project’s scale, complexity, timeline, and required level of involvement.

Following the introductory call and scope meeting, Rift Sawn prepares a project-specific proposal outlining the recommended services, estimated design hours, hourly rate, and any anticipated additional expenses.

Construction, furnishings, procurement, travel, and reimbursable expenses are separate from design fees unless specifically noted.

A realistic project budget includes separate allowances for construction, furnishings, and professional services.

We discuss investment early so that the design direction is appropriate to the project. Rift Sawn can help establish priorities and preliminary allowances, but contractor pricing and market conditions ultimately determine construction costs.

You do not need to have every number finalized before reaching out. A thoughtful starting range is enough to begin the conversation.

For projects that include studio-managed procurement, Rift Sawn prepares proposals, places approved orders, and coordinates with vendors, receivers, delivery teams, and installers.

Procurement terms, pricing, and responsibilities are explained in the client agreement.

Studio-managed procurement is strongly recommended for substantial furnishings projects, particularly when many items must be coordinated around construction or a target move-in date.

Clients may choose to purchase directly in some cases. This should be established at the beginning of the project so that Rift Sawn can source from vendors available to the public and the responsibilities for ordering, tracking, delivery, damages, returns, and installation are clearly understood.

Items purchased independently by the client are generally outside the studio’s responsibility for order management and resolution.

Absolutely. Collaboration is central to the process.

Designs are presented at defined milestones, and scheduled revision rounds allow the work to respond to your feedback while maintaining a cohesive overall direction.

The proposal will specify the included revision process and explain how substantial changes or additional revisions are billed.

Presentations vary according to the project but may include plans, elevations, material samples, imagery, specifications, and three-dimensional views. Design meetings may be in-person or virtual depending on the project needs.

Whenever possible, we present materials and finishes together so that clients can understand not only each individual selection, but how the complete composition will feel.

Timelines vary considerably.

Ground-up homes and major renovations often require a year or more, while focused design or furnishings engagements may take several months. Custom fabrication, construction schedules, product lead times, and the pace of client decisions also affect timing.

We establish a preliminary schedule at the beginning but encourage clients to contact us as early as possible.

Yes.

Rift Sawn primarily serves Truckee, Lake Tahoe, and Donner Summit while accepting select projects elsewhere. Remote design is available for appropriate scopes, and travel or scheduled site visits can be incorporated when needed.

Rift Sawn considers select hospitality, retail, and other experience-driven commercial projects.

The strongest fit is a space that values materiality, craft, atmosphere, and a thoughtful relationship between how it looks and how it is lived in or used.

Yes. Existing pieces can provide history, character, and a meaningful starting point for the design.

During the discovery process, we identify what should remain, what may be reworked or relocated, and where something new is needed to support the overall direction.

Complete the inquiry form with whatever information you currently have.

We will review the project and contact you about scheduling an introductory conversation if it appears aligned with the studio’s services and availability.

From there, we may arrange a more detailed meeting or site visit so that both sides can understand the project and determine whether the working relationship feels like the right fit.