Hiring an interior designer shouldn't be scary or break the bank. At Studio Aster, we evaluate the scope of your project and your budget before anything else — so there are no surprises. Each project is completely custom to your needs and we are here to listen and make your vision a reality. Typically, interior design services range from $150–$250 per hour depending on the project.

There is a big difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator. As interior designers, Kaylie (M.Arch) and Casey (BFA Interior Architecture) both have degrees in the architecture field. This means they have a strong background in how and why a project is built the way it is, which helps them design projects efficiently and confidently. A decorator on the other hand may not have the same level of technical knowledge when it comes to moving walls and how a building is built from the ground up. We do however love our interior decorators — they bring a valuable skill set and we always enjoy collaborating with them.

Most residential remodel and ADU projects don't require a licensed architect — and that's great news for your budget! At Studio Aster, we work hand-in-hand with structural engineers who can review and stamp the design where needed. Having an engineer visit the site and confirm the design is typically all it takes to get your project through permits smoothly, without the added cost of a full architectural stamp.

Every project has two main phases — design and build — and timelines vary depending on scope. Using a kitchen or bathroom remodel as an example: the design phase typically takes around 3–4 months, which includes space planning, material selections, and preparing full construction documents. The build phase then runs another 3–4 months from start to finish. So from our first meeting to handing you the keys to your newly designed space, you're generally looking at 6–8 months total.

In most cases — yes, and honestly permits are nothing to be afraid of! They exist to protect the quality, safety, and long-term value of your home. That said, not every project requires one — scope and location both play a role. At Studio Aster, we'll walk you through exactly what your project needs from the very start so there are zero surprises down the road.

Chances are — yes! California has made it easier than ever for homeowners to add an ADU, and most properties have more potential than people realize. The best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with us. We'll assess your property, walk you through your options, and let you know exactly what's possible. It's honestly one of our favorite conversations to have.

No contractor? No problem! At Studio Aster we have worked with many contractors over the years and have a few great companies we love working with up our sleeves. We love to partner with contractors and build strong working relationships so you feel confident and taken care of every step of the way. Having a team that already works well together makes the whole process smoother and way less stressful for you.

Our initial consultation is honestly one of our favorite parts of the process — it's where everything starts to come to life! We'll come to your home, walk through your space together, and get to know how you live, what you love, and what you've been dreaming about. We'll talk through your goals, your timeline, and your budget so we can put together a proposal that actually makes sense for you. No pressure, no overwhelm — just a really good conversation about your home and what it could become.

3D modeling is honestly a game changer — and it's something we include with every single project at Studio Aster. Instead of trying to imagine what your new kitchen, bathroom, or ADU will look like from a flat floor plan, you actually get to see it before a single wall is touched. You can explore material combinations, test layout options, and catch anything you want to change before construction begins — which saves time, money, and a lot of second-guessing. It's one of the things our clients consistently tell us they're most grateful for.

Choosing the right designer is such an important decision and it comes down to a few things — experience, communication, and fit. You want someone who has real knowledge of the construction process (not just the aesthetic side), who listens to your vision rather than imposing their own, and who you genuinely enjoy working with because you'll be spending a lot of time together! At Studio Aster, Kaylie and Casey bring both architectural education and hands-on construction experience to every project, serving homeowners across Walnut Creek, Dublin, Pleasanton, Danville, San Ramon, and the greater Bay Area. We'd love to be your people.

Easy — just reach out! You can contact us through our contact page, shoot us an email at info@studioasterdesigns.com, or give us a call at 925-808-9768. We typically respond within one business day. From there we'll set up a consultation, come see your space, and talk through everything. We genuinely love this part — hearing about your project and dreaming up what it could become. We can't wait to meet you!