Mini Design Session I Portland Interior Design
Expert Insight. Zero Pressure.
Mini Design session
For the hands-on homeowner who just needs a little professional backup.
Fast, Focused Feedback
Perfect for validating your ideas, narrowing down choices, or avoiding costly missteps.
“I need a second opinion before I hit ‘buy.’”
Immediate Problem-Solving
We troubleshoot layout issues, color questions, and more—in real time.
“I’ve spent weeks obsessing over the wrong thing.”
Actionable Takeaways
You’ll get clarity and a written summary you can implement immediately.
“I don’t want more ideas—I want a plan I can follow.”
Mini Design Session
Strategic Design Clarity Without the Full-Service Commitment
A focused design intensive to bring clarity, direction and confidence to your space.
You have ideas and inspiration. Now you need expert structure to make sure everything works together beautifully.
In this focused 2.5-hour session, we will:
Clarify your vision and define a cohesive design direction
Solve specific challenges such as layout, paint colors, materials or furnishings
Review and confirm remodel selections (tile, countertops, cabinetry, fixtures and finishes) before you order
Refine key decisions so you can move forward confidently
Identify next steps to keep your project on track
Whether you're starting fresh or knee-deep in decisions, this session gives you professional insight without committing to a full-service design engagement.
Who Is This For?
Homeowners who want expert perspective before making purchases
Remodelers who want their selections confirmed before they commit
Clients who feel stuck mid-project
DIYers who want a professional eye
Future full-service clients who want to start with clarity
What’s Included
2.5 hours, virtual or in person in the Greater Portland / Vancouver area
Real-time design strategy and recommendations
Remodel selection review, if you're mid-project (bring your samples, spec sheets or quotes)
A written recap with actionable next steps
Investment
Flat-rate investment: $595
No surprise fees. No open-ended hourly billing.
Furnishings Add-On
When your room is almost there.
You've lived with it. You've moved the chair three times. Something still isn't quite right, and you can't put your finger on what.
Usually it's not the whole room. It's the rug that pulls everything together. The accent chair that finally makes the corner feel intentional. The piece that makes the room feel like yours.
That's where we come in. We'll find the pieces that make it click, so you can stop scrolling and start loving your space.
Package 1: The Missing Piece · 1–3 pieces
The rug, the chair, the art. The one or two things holding your room back.
Design fee: $395
Package 2: The Refresh · 4–6 pieces
A fresh layer for a room that needs a little more than a finishing touch.
Design fee: $695
Furnishings are priced individually and purchased through Design With Refinement.
What's included
A curated selection for your space, presented for your approval
Pieces chosen to fit the scale, layout and direction from your session
A "piece" is a furniture, rug, lighting, or mirror item. Matched pairs count as one. See what's included in FAQ below↓.
Add a package during your session or within 30 days afterward.
Ready for more than a few pieces? If you'd love the whole room designed, sourced and installed for you, that's what our Full-Service Design is for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mini Design Session available virtually?
Yes. Sessions are available virtually nationwide or in-person throughout greater Portland, Tualatin, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Vancouver WA, and Camas.
What should I have ready before my session?
A few photos of your space, any inspiration you love, and the questions on your mind. If you're mid-remodel, have your samples, spec sheets or showroom quotes on hand so we can review them together.
I've already picked my remodel selections. Can you just confirm them?
Yes, and it's one of our favorite ways to help. We'll review your tile, countertops, cabinetry, fixtures and finishes together, flag anything that won't work, and confirm the rest so you can order with confidence. Our review is a design recommendation. Final measurements, quantities and installation stay with you and your contractor.
What happens after the session?
Within a few days, you'll receive a written recap with your design direction, specific recommendations and next steps.
Do I get a shopping list?
Your session includes design direction and a written recap. Specific product selections are part of the Furnishings Add-On, where we source each piece for you from trade-only vendors.
How does the Furnishings Add-On work?
Choose The Missing Piece (1–3 pieces, $395) or Refresh (4–6 pieces, $695). For each piece, we'll present three hand-selected options. If none feel right, we'll do one more round. Once you've chosen, we place your order and your pieces ship directly to your home.
What counts as a "piece"?
Rugs, seating, tables, case goods, in-stock beds, lighting, art and statement mirrors, each $250 or more. A matched pair, like two lamps or two nightstands, counts as one piece. Accessories, pillows, throws, bedding and plants aren't included, and neither are custom or made-to-order items like upholstery and window treatments. If you'd love those too, let’s chat.
How are the furnishings priced?
Each piece is priced individually and purchased through Design With Refinement. Your selections are paid in full before we place your order. Shipping and freight are billed at cost.
Can you help me with art?
Yes, in two ways. In your Mini Design Session, we'll give you art direction (size, placement, scale and mood) so you can shop with confidence. Or add it to your Furnishings Add-On, and we'll curate wall art from our trade partners, sized and framed for your space. Because art is made to order for you, it's final sale and has a longer lead time.
Can I add furnishings later?
Yes. You can add a package during your session or within 30 days afterward.
Who handles delivery and setup?
Your pieces ship directly to your home, and we'll pass along order confirmations and tracking so you know what's coming. You may have the option for white glove delivery or you may need to receive, unpack and place a piece depending on the vendor. If you'd love delivery, installation and styling handled for you, that's part of our Full-Service Design.
Can I return a piece?
Many of our trade vendors don't accept returns, so all sales are final once an order is placed. That's why we show you three options for every piece and include a revision round, so you can choose with confidence.
What if I need more than six pieces, or help with several rooms?
Designer by Your Side or our Full-Service Design may be a better fit. We're happy to help you decide.
How is this different from Designer by Your Side?
The Mini Design Session is a single 2.5-hour session focused on one space or one set of decisions. Designer by Your Side is a 10-hour block of design time you can use across rooms and visits, ideal when you want ongoing support.
Can this session lead to a full-service project?
Yes. Many full-service clients start with a Mini Design Session. If you move forward with Full-Service Design within 30 days, your session fee is applied toward your project.
Can I book a Mini Design Session just for paint colors?
Absolutely. Many clients use their session to choose paint colors for a room, an open floor plan or a whole house. We'll test options in your light and leave you with a written color plan. Choosing new finishes or furniture at the same time? We can cover those in the same session.
Not the right fit? Check out out our
“I hired Refinement for a consultation on some cosmetic updates… paint color, cabinet pulls, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. She was prompt, friendly and listened to my concerns. Her suggestions were extremely helpful and allowed me to move forward with my changes with confidence.”