FAQ

Straight answers about the studio, the work, and how a project begins.

  • Where is Stushek Design?

    An interior design and renovation studio at 1125 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22901. (540) 256-2516 or erin@stushekdesign.com.

  • Where do you work?

    Charlottesville, Keswick, Ivy, and Crozet.

  • What services do you offer?

    Full Renovations. Erin is a Class A contractor, and our team manages every detail of your project, from initial planning and design to the final build. This includes coordinating with contractors, ensuring compliance with building codes, and overseeing materials, timelines, and installations.

    Interior Design. Transform your spaces into a functional, beautiful environment tailored to your lifestyle. From concept to completion, this service can include everything from selecting colors, materials, and furniture to managing purchases, project oversight, and installation.

    Creative Advisory. We offer expert guidance on design concepts, color palettes, materials, and styling to bring your vision to life. Perfect for clients seeking inspiration, fresh ideas, or support refining their aesthetic, this service provides tailored, creative input without full project management.

    Elevations + 3D Modeling. These visuals provide a clear representation of your space, allowing you to see designs from multiple angles before anything is built. This service helps communicate ideas effectively, incorporate your feedback, and make adjustments with ease.

    Decor + Finish. We’re here for the details and beauty. Our design focuses on selecting and implementing all the decorative elements and final finishes for your space, including paint colors, flooring, lighting, furniture, accessories, and window treatments, creating a cohesive and complete aesthetic.

  • Can one studio handle the design and the renovation?

    Yes. The work is full-service and turnkey. Erin is a Class A contractor, so the studio that designs the space also manages the build.

  • Can I hire you without a full renovation?

    Yes. Creative Advisory, Elevations + 3D Modeling, and Decor + Finish stand alone.

  • How do I get in touch, and how soon will you reply?

    The contact form, phone, or email. We reply within two business days.

  • What does a project look like?

    Discovery & Vision. Each project begins with a focused consultation to understand your lifestyle, goals, and aesthetic. Scope, budget, and design direction are clearly defined to ensure alignment from the start.

    Concept & Visualization. Through curated concepts, material palettes, and 3D visuals, your space begins to take shape. This phase allows for collaboration and refinement before implementation.

    Design Development. Selections are finalized and details are thoughtfully resolved. Materials, furnishings, and trades are coordinated to ensure a smooth path forward.

    Implementation & Styling. The design is brought to life with careful oversight and finishing touches. The result is a cohesive, elevated space that feels both refined and personal.

  • What are your fees?

    Design is hourly. Third-party services are cost plus 20%. A flat project fee is available when a client asks, after there is enough to present one.

  • How long does it take?

    The schedule is set in Discovery & Vision. A whole-home gut takes 3–4 months. A luxury kitchen with wall or ceiling changes takes 2–3 months. A basic kitchen takes 2 months. A basic bath takes 2 months. A luxury bath with wall changes takes 2–3 months.

  • What can I look at?

    Foxfield, Melrose, Sugar Hollow, Rugby, Glenmore, Hillwood, and Sienna: kitchens, baths, whole-home renovations, furnishings, and decor.

  • Studio or the house?

    First meetings are at the house. The Park Street studio is used, less often. Being on site is part of the process.

  • When was the studio founded?

    2020, by Erin Stushek.

  • Who is Erin Stushek?

    Founder, principal designer, and Class A contractor. She leads each project from design through construction, and trained for five years with local custom boutique construction companies. The longer biography is on the About page.

  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes. Class A, and the studio is insured.

  • What is your design style?

    Timeless and traditional in feeling, texture-heavy, with a touch of drama. One-of-a-kind pieces, antiques, and patina, and the warm European cottage look.

  • Do you remodel kitchens and bathrooms?

    Yes, from planning and design through the build.

  • Do you work on older and historic homes?

    Not yet.

  • Do you build additions or new homes?

    Erin designs and builds additions. She has not done a new build yet, and her license is being updated so she can.

  • Do you take commercial projects?

    Yes. Law offices, property management firms, and exercise studios.

  • Who handles permits?

    The studio applies. The homeowner may apply instead. Either way, the studio can complete the work.

  • Can we live in the house during the renovation?

    Yes, if you are prepared to. The team zip-seals each room and vacuums or sweeps at the end of every work day. A temporary kitchen or bath is yours to arrange.

  • Can you work with my architect or contractor?

    Yes. Architects, contractors, and builders.

  • Can you use furniture I own, and do you buy new pieces?

    Yes to both. Invoices go out every two weeks and include design hours, third-party services at cost plus 20%, and furniture.

  • Is the first consultation free?

    No. The Discovery & Vision consultation is $195 and includes a written record of the meeting, with recommendations and planning notes.

  • Do you offer virtual design outside Charlottesville?

    She has not taken one yet, and she is open to it.