Understanding Our Client’s Vision: How We Conduct Design Consultations


At Amy Dutton Home, we believe that great design starts with understanding our client’s vision. Choosing the right design for your home can feel overwhelming, but we aim to simplify the process. Whether you’re looking to transform your entire home, build from the ground up, or simply refresh a single room, our design consultations are tailored to meet your unique style and needs.

The Consultation Process

We offer a variety of consultation options to suit every client. For those just starting out or wanting to explore ideas, we provide a complimentary 15-minute consultation through our virtual company, Abrigo Home. This is a great way for you to share your design goals and get to know us better. If you’re ready to dive deeper, we also offer paid consultations of varying lengths– 60 minutes or a comprehensive 2-hour session at your job site. Whether you prefer to meet in our design studio nestled in the charming town of Kittery, Maine, or connect virtually, we make it easy to get the help you need.

Collaborating on Your Design Vision

During our consultations, we take the time to ask the right questions to uncover your priorities and preferences. We discuss your project goals, desired aesthetic, budget, and timeline, allowing us to understand the full scope of the project. We’ll delve into your lifestyle and the functional needs of the space, ensuring we create an environment that not only looks great but also works for you. 

When it comes to understanding your vision, we love it when clients come in with a Pinterest board filled with design inspiration. These visual cues help us get a feel for your personal style and the atmosphere you want to create in your home. Don’t have a board yet? No problem! We can help you set one up, guiding you to explore different styles and ideas.

Whether it’s architectural elements, interior materials, or outdoor landscaping, we know how interconnected these aspects are. Our approach, which we call “Whole Home Design”, ensures that every element works together harmoniously, creating a cohesive and beautiful space.

A Structured Yet Fun Experience

While we believe that design should be enjoyable, our process is also structured to give you peace of mind. From the moment you share your vision, you can rest assured that you’re in capable hands. We’ll review the specifics of your property, including its layout and structural components, which allows us to create a design that is not only beautiful but functional as well. Our role is to guide you through the design process, helping you understand how to layer textures, balance colors, and create focal points in your space. We consider every detail, from material selections to architectural features. 

Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of reclaimed wood, the sleekness of modern finishes, or the charm of vintage accents, we’ll collaborate with you on sourcing plumbing fixtures, lighting options, tile, countertops, and appliances that resonate with your aesthetic. While we’ll offer our professional insights and suggestions, the final decisions are always yours. We’re here to help encourage you to think outside the box and to consider elements that will make your home vibrant and engaging.

Notable Projects in Progress

We are currently working on several exciting projects, showcasing our commitment to diverse design solutions. One of these is the renovation of an old historic home in Portsmouth, NH. This project involves not only reviving the home’s classic charm but also adding a thoughtful addition to the back, allowing for modern amenities while respecting the original structure’s character.

We’re also bringing to life a coastal-themed home close to Rye Beach, where we’re embracing soft blues and sandy neutrals to reflect the serene beach environment. Additionally, we’re considering a strategic rebuild on stilts for a Maine beach home in York, Maine, which was flooded by the Atlantic Ocean last winter. This rebuild not only addresses environmental concerns but also offers an opportunity to create a stunning, elevated space that maximizes ocean views.

Getting Started

After the consultation, a site visit is scheduled following a signed contract agreement, which outlines the project scope, fees, and next steps. Site visits involve a space assessment, where we take measurements, photos, and note any existing features or limitations. This information allows us to provide accurate estimates and a thoughtful design plan tailored to your needs.

Ready to unlock the potential of your home design project? Book your free 15-minute consultation with us today! Together, we’ll explore every detail, ensuring that your space is tailored to your lifestyle, functional needs, and personal style. We can’t wait to hear about your vision and help you take the first step toward creating the home of your dreams! 

 
 
 

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