FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CAMEROON
1. How do you handle construction projects? Kaïsa Design Studio manages new construction and renovation projects in Cameroon, whether the client lives in Cameroon or abroad. This includes pre-construction strategy, space planning, kitchen and bath design, custom cabinetry, color consultation, materials specification, lighting design and more! We work with architects and engineers, and we remain transparent with regards to the management of your project and money. You will know at all times how your money is spent. Transparency and collaboration are key elements of each project. The client doesn't have to rely on family to build their retirement or vacation home. Direct contact and communication with our experienced team ensure that the client is informed each step of the way. We provide updates in the form of videos, photos, online chats, emails, phone calls, and financial documents.
2. What other services do you offer your clients? We offer interior decoration and online design services. To learn more about these, please consult the Interiors and e-Design pages. The uniqueness of design services offered for Cameroon is that Kaïsa Design Studio is able to provide concierge shopping services. Concierge shopping entails buying furniture and accessories overseas and shipping them to Cameroon. The client is responsible for all costs, including designer's fees, shipping, insurance, customs, and taxes.
3. How do I get started with a construction project? As with all of our services, contact us by filling out the design questionnaire and then schedule your 15-minute Discovery Call during which we'll discuss your needs and see if we are the right fit for you. If so, we'll follow up with a paid 1.25-hour design consultation during which we'll discuss your space/land and gain insight into your vision for the completed project. If you reside in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, we can meet with you there. If you reside outside of the DC metro area or abroad, we can discuss with you through WhatsApp, Zoom, or Teams. In both situations (whether you live in the Washington DC area or not), one of our employees will visit your construction site or home in Cameroon. After our consultation, we will send you a proposal outlining the scope of work and fee schedules along with a contract. Once you and your designer sign the contract, we'll begin working on your project. For a dramatic and cohesive look, our construction management services come as a package that also includes interior decoration; however.
4. Can some of my existing furniture pieces be used? Certainly. As much as possible, we try to incorporate your own purchases and special finds to provide clients a personalized and affordable interior makeover, as long as these pieces work within the overall design style.
5. How do I know what my budget should be like? As Kaïsa designers, we will work with you to create a realistic budget for your project based on your needs and taste. We pride ourselves in being honest and upfront with our clients about realistic costs of designing and furnishing a room.
6. Do you work within the project's budget? Of course, provided your budget is realistic. That being said, for the interior decoration portion of your project, our ability to create a dramatic transformation will be determined by what you’ve set aside for the project, the extent of your preference for designer vendors only (expect to spend more) or retail vendors only (expect to spend less.)
7. Will you make changes if I don’t like something? Absolutely! That's why we have a session called Design Presentation. This is when we present to the client a simulation of the designed space. You can change the fabric, color, furniture or accessories of the space, or even a room size (with the guidance of your interior designer.) This re-selection by the client comes at no additional cost.
8. What types of spaces do you build? We build homes, apartments, offices, restaurants, small hotels, and small commercial spaces.
9. How do you work? We want every space we design to be a reflection of our client’s personality, taste, hobbies, family, collection, and anything else that matters to you. No project is too big or too small. We will work with you to achieve an end result that is surprising, comfortable, on time and within budget.
10. Where do you offer construction management? We perform construction management services in Douala and Yaoundé only. For design, decoration, or concierge shopping services, we can work anywhere in Cameroon.
