Frequently Asked
Questions

Planning a renovation or new build? We've put together a dedicated set of answers covering timelines, budgets, and how we work with your builder and architect.

The Build Process, Explained →

And for everything else, here's what people ask us most….

  • Vela specializes in full-service interior design for renovations, new builds, and furnishing projects across residential and select boutique commercial spaces.

    Our work spans remodels, new construction, and fully curated furnishing projects. We are best suited for clients who view design as a long-term investment and value highly considered, cohesive environments.

  • We are based in the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro and work nationwide, with projects ranging from New York to San Francisco.

    Projects located more than 50 miles from our studio require travel coordination.

  • It’s never too early. Engaging early allows us to align with your vision, collaborate with your architect or builder, and ensure thoughtful, well-documented execution from the outset.

  • Every project begins with our Discovery + Strategy phase.

    During this foundational engagement, we:

    • Clarify goals and priorities

    • Define scope and investment parameters

    • Establish aesthetic direction

    • Identify opportunities within the space

    Discovery ensures alignment before design development begins. It is where strategy and vision converge — setting the tone for a seamless process.

  • Our work unfolds in three intentional phases:

    Discovery + Strategy
    Understanding how you function and what the space must accomplish.

    Design + Curation
    Developing a cohesive concept and curating materials, furnishings, and details with precision.

    Execution + Reveal
    Managing procurement, coordination, and installation — bringing the vision to life with clarity and care.

    We collaborate closely with architects, contractors, and trades to ensure cohesion at every stage.

    To maintain dedicated focus, we typically design one project at a time during active development. Implementation phases may overlap, but our attention remains intentional and structured.

  • Our clients are involved in direction, not burdened by complexity.

    We guide the process with clarity and intention — presenting thoughtful, curated selections at key decision points while managing the countless details behind the scenes.

    The result is a collaborative experience that feels refined, not overwhelming.

  • Our design fees are fixed and based on project scope and scale. Your proposal clearly outlines phases, deliverables, and payment schedule to ensure transparency from the outset.

    Investment varies based on size and customization. While every project is unique, our starting design fee is $8,000.

    During Discovery, we help establish realistic expectations aligned with your priorities.

  • Vela manages procurement in its entirety.

    We verify specifications, coordinate vendors and receivers, track lead times, and oversee white glove delivery and professional installation.

    To ensure accuracy, accountability, and seamless coordination, we manage purchasing for all specified furnishings and materials.

    Should delays or damages occur, we handle resolution directly - coordinating repair, replacement, and revised timelines on your behalf.

    Our full-service model protects both the integrity of the design and your experience.

  • Timelines vary based on scope, complexity, and level of customization.

    Typical ranges include:

    • Furnishings: approximately 3–6+ months

    • Renovations: approximately 9–18+ months

    • New builds: often 12–24+ months

    Project timelines are influenced by construction schedules, client approvals, product availability, and custom fabrication lead times. Many materials are made to order and require extended production windows.

    We provide timeline guidance early and maintain clarity throughout the process.

  • Vela is a principal-led studio. You will work directly with our design lead throughout your project.

    We establish a structured communication rhythm at the outset, which include scheduled meetings, site visits, curated presentations, and consistent updates. You will always understand where the project stands.

  • We partner best with clients who value:

    • Thoughtful, structured process

    • Clear creative direction

    • Elevated, highly considered results

    • A streamlined, full-service experience

    Vela is grounded in clarity, intention, and confident creative leadership. Our work is defined by thoughtful editing rather than trend, and by environments designed to feel cohesive, enduring, and deeply considered.

    If you are seeking a refined partnership that manages complexity while delivering calm, expertly guided results — we may be an excellent fit.