--- title: "Carolina Moncion Design — Kitchen & Bath Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/carolina-moncion-design-pfvwus-pf~218551381 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~218551381.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Carolina Moncion Design" category: ["Kitchen & Bath Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/67e30f7b01d8c88c_4112-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "San Antonio, Texas 78266, United States" latitude: 29.6643 longitude: -98.3118 phone: "(210) 275-3027" website: http://www.carolinamoncion.com rating: 5 review_count: 12 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 318 last_updated: 2026-11-08 --- # Carolina Moncion Design Original Houzz profile: [Carolina Moncion Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/carolina-moncion-design-pfvwus-pf~218551381) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Kitchen & Bath Designers - **Location:** San Antonio, TX - **Serves:** San Antonio, Austin, Waco, New Braunfels, Schertz, Cibolo, Canyon Lake, Universal City, Boerne, Hewitt, Live Oak, Fredericksburg, Selma, Fair Oaks Ranch, Bulverde, Garden Ridge, Shavano Park, Northcliff, Marion, Spring Branch, Sisterdale, Timberwood - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (12 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2015–2018), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 250 Ideabook Saves Carolina Moncion Design is an Interior Designer, Kitchen and Bath Design, Architectural Drafting and Custom Design Fabrication Firm. We focus on quality work for the most discerning clients. With sixteen years of fabricating experience, we have an understanding of drapery, bedding and upholstery. Our belief is that great design is based on the client, their style and their needs. We use color, lighting and textures to create a space that will not only look good but make you, the client, feel good. Formally trained in Kitchens and Baths, we focus on safety and function first, as well as the client's storage needs. We provide 3-dimensional drafting services for the design and remodeling industry. Our mission is to provide quality design concepts and services that reflect you, the client. We firmly believe that good design is never about the designer: It's all about you, the client. ### Services Provided - Kitchen Design - Custom Cabinets - Bathroom Design - Custom Kitchen Cabinets - Custom Bathroom Vanities - 3D Rendering - Custom Countertops - Home Additions - Custom Pantries - Lighting Design - Laundry Room Design - Mudroom Design - Floor Plans - Project Management - Home Extensions - Pantry Design - Custom Walk-in Closets - Drafting - Wine Cellar Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Bathroom Remodeling - Custom Bedding - Draperies - Interior Decorating - Interior design - Remodeling - Tile Installation ### Areas Served - San Antonio - Austin - Waco - New Braunfels - Schertz - Cibolo - Canyon Lake - Universal City - Boerne - Hewitt - Live Oak - Fredericksburg - Selma - Fair Oaks Ranch - Bulverde - Garden Ridge - Shavano Park - Northcliff - Marion - Spring Branch - Sisterdale - Timberwood ### Typical Job Cost $1,100 - 1,500,0000 Realistic Design and Blueprint Drafting - Starting costs $1,1000 with three sets of blueprints and a personalized web page for our clients to view images on their own time. Kitchen Renovations - $50,000 + Contingent on Scope of Work. Bathroom Renovations - $30,000+ Contingent on Scope of Work. Whole Home Remodeling - $120,000 + Contingent on Scope of Work. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Carolina Moncion Design | | Address | San Antonio, Texas 78266, United States | | Phone | (210) 275-3027 | | Website | http://www.carolinamoncion.com | | Followers on Houzz | 318 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/CarolinaMoncionDesign - Blog — Http://www.carolinamoncion.com ## Offers Call for an In-Home Consultation ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Carolina Moncion Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/carolina-moncion-design-pfvwus-pf~218551381) - **Website:** http://www.carolinamoncion.com - **Phone:** (210) 275-3027 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Certified Interior Designer. - Member, NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association). - Design Legend, 2017, BFID (Black Female Interior Designers). - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2015–2018), for Service. **Affiliations** - [National Kitchen & Bath Association](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-kitchen-and-bath-association-pfvwus-pf~1351084655) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 12 reviews** ### All 12 reviews **★★★★★ — Claire Vollmar, July 2017** > During just one hour Carolina was able to clarify ideas and make suggestions about several design projects I have been considering. Her ability to see the whole picture and make immediate suggestions gave me confidence in her designs.I will definitely be depending on her to help me with redecorating several rooms in my house and to make decisions I won't regret. **★★★★★ — Craig Hardy, June 2017** > My wife and I bought a great ranch style house over 20 years ago. Over the years, we've made lots of changes. Some of these changes were good while others turned out "not so good". When we decided to make MAJOR changes to our kitchen, den, living room and dining room we wanted to make sure we were avoiding the "not so good" changes but instead were making decisions that led to "good changes". My wife specifically wanted someone to keep an eye out for things that we, as non-professionals, might overlook or not catch We interviewed and spoke with several designers. One stood out as she had great suggestions and understood the current trends. Notably, she actually listened to us and our preferences as she asked us the right questions to help us decide what we really wanted in our remodel. Without a doubt, partnering with Carolina Moncion was the best decision we made during this entire project. From the start Carolina was helpful in big decisions and small. > Carolina made it a point to be available when the cabinets were being installed. I'm really glad she did as the installers were off by over six inches in the placement of our center island. She caught the mistake before it became a MAJOR issue! The following week the countertops were installed. They looked great- yet there was one issue. One small separate section of countertop was cut in the wrong direction. We had not noticed it. Carolina did. I have no doubt that we would have eventually spotted it (and been bothered by it) long after the project was complete and checks had been cut. Fortunately, the small piece was easily re-cut from existing remnants and replaced at no charge. > A few days later, my wife and I were stuck on something as minor as the types of handles to use on the cabinets. We called Carolina. She had suggestions and quickly sent us web links to review. With her help, the issue was resolved in no time. > Carolina was a wealth of information and always available. She kept an overall eye on our project and protected it's integrity as she helped to move it along with easy (for her) suggestions and answers. I will definitely utilize her services in the future should the need arise and I whole heartedly recommend Carolina Moncion Design! **Comment from Carolina Moncion Design:** > Thank you, so much, Craig! You and Patty are so kind, fun and wonderful to work with! I very much enjoy working with you both and assisting you with your beautiful home! Thank you for the wonderful review! **★★★★★ — Designfit Creative Solutions, June 2017** > Caroline is a true professional in every sense. She can guide you through every phase of the project. She helped me when nobody else would by resolving an issue I had with a new custom piece of upholstery that was ordered. I had specified a certain type of material direction for some velvet cushions and they came in looking weird so Caroline got it resolved for me. **★★★★★ — christophercheagle, May 2017** > Carolina Moncion is an exceptionally talented and personable designer who has a seemingly innate ability to transfer ideas into masterful visions. We were impressed with the attention to detail and obsession over details to ensure that our window treatments complimented our living room. We have consistently received accolades and acknowledgment from friends and neighbors alike who remark about how beautiful our window treatments are and how they bring color and spectre into our living room. **★★★★★ — Diana Scott, May 2017** > Caroline is awesome! Carolne recently did a total room makeover of my daughter's bedroom from little girl pink to what my daughter wanted in her room, from the beautiful shade of blue to my daughter's wish that nature be incorporated in her room. It was truly transformational. My daughter spends ALL her free time in her room, it is so beautiful and calming. Caroline's attention to detail is second to none! We highly recommend her! **Comment from Carolina Moncion Design:** > Thank you, Diana! It has been my pleasure working with you and your wonderful family on this project! You have been amazing clients from the very beginning and now friends! I am thrilled to know that you all love and enjoy the results! **★★★★★ — julesharr, Jan. 2016** > Caroline served as a Consultant, during the construction of our custom home. She reviewed our plans and immediately identified some things that would make our kitchen more functional and efficient. For example, instead of the traditional over-the-range microwave, she recommended placing a built-in microwave drawer oven in the kitchen island. This improved the spacing in the kitchen tremendously. Now at least four people can be working in the kitchen simultaneously without tripping over each other. She also recommended that we extend a wall by the refrigerator so when you are standing in the living room you do not see the side of the refrigerator. This gave a far better appearance. Lastly, in the laundry room we had planned on dropping the floor (in case of flooding) only around the washer/dryer. Her first question was "what type of washer/dryer do you have"? Answer, "front loaders with the drawers on the bottom". She then explained, if you dropped the floor only around the washer/dryer you will NOT be able to open and use the drawers. She recommended that we drop the entire laundry room floor that way we can use our drawers and it would help contain water in case of flooding. Genius!! Caroline has the passion, professionalism and MOST importantly the Attention to Detail for her craft. The examples in this Review is just a fraction of the things she is capable of doing. I would highly recommend her services to anyone in need. **★★★★★ — MOD Interiors, Dec. 2015** > Caroline Trinidad is a master of her craft, she takes pride in each project and delivers beautiful pictures that brings each project to life. Her sophisticated 3D layouts, make it easy to visualize the concepts and make bold choices on moving walls, doors, windows etc.. Caroline is a pleasure to work with, she listens to your input and also gives her opinion when she feels a different direction would be better. I highly recommend Caroline Trinidad of Architectural Alchemist to anyone thinking of remodeling their home. **★★★★★ — K. Rue Designs, LLC, Dec. 2015** > I have had the opportunity to work with Caroline Trinidad and Harrogate House for the past 12+ years. She is my "go to" soft goods fabricator for bedding, drapery and window treatments, as well as decorative pillows. > > Caroline has a great attention to detail, whether it comes to fabrication of an intricate window treatment to bringing to life kitchen and bath designs, floor plans and renderings, for projects for my clients in Chief Architect. She has assisted me in the CAD interpretation of kitchens and bathrooms, based on my designs. An ultimate professional, with a high respect for the client and the designer. She is a blessing to work with. **★★★★★ — Trisean Starks, Dec. 2015** > Caroline provided excellent work. The four decorative pillows added the perfect fink me touch to a very masculine bulky price of furniture. Quality work is hard to find but you can rest easy with Caroline Trinidad she will make sure it is functional and more than you imagine. **★★★★★ — Magdelyn Made, Oct. 2014** > Caroline re-decorated my place. As a college student, and having to moved away from home, I was living in an apartment I wasn't happy with.She was a Big Blessing in that stage of my life! she showed her passion for design while re-decorating my place, and made it feel the way I needed it to: Like home! -Magdelyn **★★★★★ — nobodynose, July 2014** > Caroline started and completed a home interior design project on time and was very professional and courteous. She was very attentive in listening and addressing all of our concerns and ensured we had the best outcome based on her assessment of our needs. We were very pleased with the outcome of our design ideas and would definitely use her again. > I highly recommend her service. **Comment from Carolina Moncion Design:** > Thank you so much! I enjoyed creating an environment you could enjoy! It was a pleasure to work with you! **★★★★★ — Artist Krisel, June 2014** > Behond excellence and radiant! Her creations and ability of putting together fabric, colors and styles are amazingly beautiful and creative. Caroline is a fresh breath of air and pleasingly easy to work with. She listen, pays attention to the minimums details. Her customer service skills and professionalism are outstanding! I wouldn't work with no other designer, anywhere! Her kitchens design are perfect and well thought. Never the less to say that her use of quality products, materials and fabric are exquisite. > I would recommend Caroline Trinidad Architectural to anyone looking to have great professional service, quality and incredibly beautiful designs. ## Selected projects - [Ramble Guest Room in San Antonio, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ramble-guest-room-in-san-antonio-texas-pj-vj~1451502) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 6 - [BH Bathroom in San Antonio, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bh-bathroom-in-san-antonio-texas-pj-vj~2513656) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 5 - [Flemming Residence in Schertz, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/flemming-residence-in-schertz-texas-pj-vj~799222) - Location: Schertz, TX - Photos: 15 - Description: This wonderful couple had the furniture in place but needed a little assistance finishing out the space.They wanted their new home to reflect their personality. After the initial interview, we made selections with them and finished out the space. Photo credit - Caroline Trinidad - [Spring Reno in Waco, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spring-reno-in-waco-texas-pj-vj~2311115) - Location: Waco, TX - Photos: 5 - [SS - Girl's Bedroom in San Antonio, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ss-girl-s-bedroom-in-san-antonio-texas-pj-vj~2311165) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 5 - [E. Perez Residence in New Braunfels, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/e-perez-residence-in-new-braunfels-texas-pj-vj~289736) - Location: New Braunfels, TX - Photos: 11 - [LT - New Construction in Garden Ridge, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lt-new-construction-in-garden-ridge-texas-pj-vj~2315600) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 14 - Description: We designed the architectural details of this home. From ceiling treatments and lighting selections to the front door, flooring throughout the home, as well as the composition of the exterior steps and patio area. - [Sido Wine Nook In Rogers Ranch, San Antonio, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sido-wine-nook-in-rogers-ranch-san-antonio-texas-pj-vj~2315588) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 1 - [Ramble Media Room in City of Garden Ridge, Texas](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ramble-media-room-in-city-of-garden-ridge-texas-pj-vj~776385) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 7 - [Kusenberger](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kusenberger-pj-vj~561936) - Location: Fredericksburg, TX - Photos: 8 - [Ramble Bath](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ramble-bath-pj-vj~1453638) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 6 - [Coming of Age Bathroom - New Construction](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coming-of-age-bathroom-new-construction-pj-vj~1581427) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 4 - [Ramble Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ramble-kitchen-pj-vj~1121212) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 9 - [Rowe Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rowe-kitchen-pj-vj~799220) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - [Ramble Home Office](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ramble-home-office-pj-vj~1121229) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 8 - [Bistro Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bistro-kitchen-pj-vj~799213) - Location: New Braunfels, TX - Photos: 1 - [Daniel Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/daniel-residence-pj-vj~561920) - Location: New Braunfels, TX - Photos: 1 - [FP - Entire Home Remodel Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fp-entire-home-remodel-design-pj-vj~2310893) - Location: Garden Ridge, TX - Photos: 6 - [Perez Metro Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/perez-metro-kitchen-pj-vj~271319) - Location: San Antonio, TX - Photos: 3 - [Pheil](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pheil-pj-vj~325180) - Location: Hutto, TX - Photos: 1 [See all 30 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/carolina-moncion-design-pfvwus-pf~218551381) ## Ideabooks - [Design Dilemma Advice](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/108536116/list/design-dilemma-advice) — 1 idea - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/104644232/list/wish-list) — 1 idea - [Ruiz Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/88269510/list/ruiz-residence) — 2 ideas - [Things I Love](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/65348475/list/things-i-love) — 5 ideas - [Beautiful Walls](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/64485805/list/beautiful-walls) — 2 ideas - [Backsplashes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/63583965/list/backsplashes) — 3 ideas - [Color Combinations That Inspire Me](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61989167/list/color-combinations-that-inspire-me) — 3 ideas - [Pool Ideas I love](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/63583922/list/pool-ideas-i-love) — 1 idea - [Glamourous and Tranquil Baths](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/51464419/list/glamourous-and-tranquil-baths) — 11 ideas - [Kitchens to Love](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/51464144/list/kitchens-to-love) — 14 ideas - [Finishing Details to Admire](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61989459/list/finishing-details-to-admire) — 1 idea - [Timeless Libraries](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61989339/list/timeless-libraries) — 2 ideas - [Live Oak Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/57509620/list/live-oak-remodel) — 7 ideas [See all 13 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/caroline-trinidad) ## Community Q&A **Q: Fridge Doors will not open next to door.** *(in Design Dilemma)* My kitchen designer is an idiot. I originally brought her the plan that had the pantry next to the wall. She told me it was a bad design and that i should move the fridge next to the wall for better esthetics. I told her my concern was that with the fridge pushed in all the way that the door would not open properly. She measured and said no it was fine. So because she is suppose to be the expert i allowed her to change my mind and to swap the pantry and the fridge. Well.... appliances just got delivered.... and bingo.... right door of fridge cannot open when pushed back beyond the wall. I have 2 options: 1) keep the fridge pulled out which is then visible from the door -photo below or 2) get a refridgerator panel and new crown moulding and have the contractor move the cabinets around.... which could ultimately also effect the electrical and plumbing. i'm not sure what upsets me more that i didnt listen to my own intuition or that she has consistently tried to blame me. We stood in the kitchen the night she wanted the check-measuring and looking online at the appliances that would go into the space-all of which she claims no recollection. We went over budget on this kitchen already going with the upgraded Omega Dynasty cabinets and it infuriates me that this owner of the company clearly does not truly have an idea what she is doing. This was HER DESIGN-- MINE HAD IT OPPOSITE.... but because she has our signature on the layout she claims she has no part of it. She even wanted to blame the installation when it is not an installation issue but a design flaw. A: So sorry you are going through this. I just moved a refrigerator to a wall and made sure that there was a 2 inch panel to accommodate the doors opening on each side. I know the wall cannot be cut back as stated in the previous parts of the conversation. I feel what looks awkward is that there was no true full-height cabinetry designed to accommodate the refrigerator hinges nor its full depth plus rear clearance. Whether counter-depth or not, this still applies. In this one situation, my question would be if the upper can be pulled forward, a 1/2 inch panel can be installed to hide the side of the refrigerator where it exceeds the depth of the pantry and a small run of crown be added. But wait, that is at first glance. Your counter-tops are on hold which is great because looking closely at your pantry, your counter-tops will not die into the side of the pantry so the best solution is to pull the pantry forward about two inches since the counter-top overhangs are 1.5 inches. This will give the tops a dead end against the side of the pantry, otherwise you will have trouble opening the pantry doors and acquire dings and scratches every time you open the pantry, unless its a pull-out pantry? I hope it is. I've done multiple bump-outs to avoid these issues and it takes someone that can fully understand these details and catch them before they happen during the design phase, not after. Additionally, all appliances should be specified before-hand so that their design specifications are on-hand and used to review the new plan. I wish you success in resolving this issue. Again, I am sorry you are going through this. I added a prelim render of the refrigerator unit against the wall for a kitchen we just finished and the bump-out to accommodate its depth. We also built out the wall beside it because it was not counter-depth but my client wanted to keep it. We made it look built-in with extra-deep, full height cabinets so that the sides would not show. The doors do not have an issue opening as the design of this area was created around this unit's dimensions.. Best of luck and I hope it can be resolved quickly. **Q: How important do you think CAD is when working w/ an interior designer** *(in Design Dilemma)* We are in need of an interior designer. It is mostly cosmetic, we are not remodeling or moving walls; however we will be doing 2 built in book shelves. We will need everything, from carpet to furniture, to window coverings, to paint and light fixtures. How important do you think it is to work with an interior designer who uses CAD. I like the idea of seeing how the chosen items will work in a space prior to purchasing. All thoughts & insights appreciated. A: @Mrykbee: Yes, the rug is already there, the draperies and pillows are in order, they have the chairs at the island, the fireplace is exactly as pictured, the shelf is also ordered as is the wall art. The furniture is also what they have. I have read the comments and I understand many are opposed to the 3D imagery and may not find it useful. However, providing a homeowner a virtual reality walk-through of the entire home or space as you have designed and decorated it is important. Some may believe we do not show fabrics nor experience the feel of the furniture yet we do. We select the pieces prior to creating the images. We select the textiles, the surface materials, decor and wall colors. We take the blueprints and rebuild the home so they can see it as it will appear. They can view it in many different angles therefore, every single viewable wall and area must be designed with curated pieces prior to showing the client the images or the virtual space. It's the same as traditional design except it's a preview of what is to come. Having very crisp images helps the client see what they are getting. More and more people are asking for this feature. The greater the investment, they want to see it, to be able to make changes, to be certain it is what they want. I used this software to show people what their remodel will look like. I use it to create blueprints for the builders and contractors to reference. I use it to obtain material quotes and assign cabinetry functions in kitchens or bathrooms. While someone mentioned hand-drawn sketches, I feel the assumption was that those that utilize CAD are not as experienced. On the contrary, most of us are in fact artists capable of painting portraits and drawing rooms in perspective and scale. We design custom pieces and build them with our cabinet makers or furniture creators. We do what other designers do. As a design professional, I am quite experienced with textiles and furniture. I am also experienced in understanding what the client is asking for via a set of questions during the interview and discovery process. I am extremely knowledgeable in construction, flooring, cabinetry, bedding, lighting, kitchen and bath design, as well as color. Clients hire us because we are gutsy. We take them out of their comfort zone because the need for change is why all design - including interior design - was created. When no one wanted to invest the time nor capital to offer this rendering service in our area, we did. There was a learning curve to fully understand the software and its abilities. It was our personal and financial investment. We took hours of personal and unpaid time to be able to master this software in order to provide this kind of experience to our clientele. We did it for them because we saw it's value in how it would assuage their fears of the unknown. This is what we have experienced: With sketches, it is you with pencils, your creativity/vision and sheer skill which is indeed amazing. With the software, it's your creativity/vision paired with design skill and technical/structural perimeters and limitations which are considered during the process, not to mention creating a very clear vision tailored to the client's requirements, with great detail in lighting and mood, on the computer. Often, it is not accepted as traditional design (noted by the comments above) and it's understandable. The software is a tool, much like hand renders, to help show the vision. The difference is that it's a complex software that facilitates a client's understanding of what they can expect and displays every angle imaginable, unlike the hand-drawn sketches because our clients want to see every wall, every angle and every piece that we have chosen. This is today's client and this client request is becoming more common. Despite what has been said, it will be more useful and grow in demand. I am a believer in the art of hand-drawn renders. However, because it only shows one angle and omits the other areas of the room, I do not find it to be an unacceptable tool for presentation purposes. I see it's beauty and it's value. I honestly wish those that do not use CAD - nor wish to use it - would see it as an alternate method instead of downplaying its role in modern design practices. I wish they would see it's importance in certain projects and it's value to the client. It's all about the client and what they are asking for. If they want crisp 3D and a virtual walkthrough, they get crisp 3D and a virtual walkthrough. Technology is here to stay in the world of design. As professionals, we should embrace it instead of downplaying it or it's users and their abilities. In turn, we that do use the software don't downplay the design professionals that remain purists to traditional hand-renders. We honestly support and applaud you because it is truly an art and there's really no room in our office or in our circle for throwing shade to something that has a place in stimulating the growth and progress of the design industry. There should really be no room anywhere for that in an industry who's goal is to inspire and create beauty for others. In the end, all that matters is that the client's expectations were met and they remain happy with the outcome. Hand-drawn or computer-aided, the client gets what they are looking for. **Q: Built-In Design help** *(in Home Decorating)* We are currently in the process of redesigning our family room. We removed our wood burning fireplace and installed a gas fireplace, widened our fireplace wall and are having built-in cabinets made for the niches on the side. The room is currently painted Revere Pewter and will be repainted BM Sierra Hills. So, my question is what color to paint above the TV which will be over the fireplace and also the areas above the built-in cabinets. The top of the built-ins will be at the 8' mark, where the ceiling begins to angle, therefore creating right angle triangles above the built-ins on each side. 1\. Would you paint above the TV and the triangles the wall color? 2\. Would you paint above the TV and the triangles the same color as the built-ins (which will be BM Super White)? 3\. Would you just paint above the TV white and leave the triangles the wall color? Also, I am trying to figure out what depth to make the shelves in the built-ins and what height to make the shelves, because I do not want adjustable shelves. So many decisions to make! I have included pictures of the room with the furniture (I'm hoping to replace the leather couch at some point, I hate it) as well as pictures of the room currently under construction as well as my inspiration photo for the built-ins and the drawing for the cabinets. Sorry for the overload of photos! Thanks in advance! Suzanne P.S. The fan is being replaced with an orb/crystal chandelier from RH Here are my lame attempts at trying to see how white would look above TV and then with wall color. A: Correct. I do like your elevation with the fireplace wall a little taller than the shelving. I feel this would emphasize the architecture of the space. Leaving the triangles and area above the tv the wall color and not painting it white would maintain your ceiling's architecture as well. My thoughts are to not take away from its style, instead we add to it and improve it. Painting that area white would be - in my opinion - a disservice to your home's existing style. **Q: Expectations from contractor** *(in Design Dilemma)* I'm working on a remodel including a kitchen update, with new counters and countertops. This is my first time working with a contractor, who also does design. I'm not sure what I should expect from them. I've asked for help in pricing countertops and cabinets. I assume that's normal, but should I have gone in with that already decided? A: Prior to starting any project, you may want to have everything selected with all pricing approved by you, the client. I believe this is what you are asking for? The layout should be designed and the following things should be selected: Flooring, countertops, cabinet quality level, door style, millwork style (if any), backsplash, all appliances, plumbing, and lighting, not to mention colors and finishes of walls and cabinetry. It's good to know what you are getting and know what is expected. I usually have a packet that outlines the process and explains timelines, including what goes on in the background. It's not a question of will it look good but a declaration that you are certain it will be functional, safe and be what you expected. Right at the beginning. The image I posted is of a current design for a client. Besides the backsplash, she knows what she's getting, cabinet dedication, appliances, countertops and storage space as well as electrical. They get all of this in BluePrint format with extra copies for the site and contractors. All of this is done before tear out begins and pricing is approved by client. If not, we aren't moving forward until we finalize the layout and selections plus pricing. I hope that helps? **Q: Seeking architectural rendering service** *(in Design Dilemma)* We seek to retain someone with mad skills in architectural renderings. Someone who will help interpret our vision for the complete remodel and additions to our home and poolhouse. We have current blueprints and site pics we could share. It's over 3,300 SF total. Any recommendations?? Located on Big Island of Hawaii in the middle of a rainforest. A: @nedrra, I think it's wonderful that clients have not - as you said- been deterred to visit. Personally, it's different in a charming way and your professional services have not been affected so it can't be that bad, right? No moaning from me. I think it's wonderful you are able to make the improvements you are trying to acquire assistance for. I believe a rendering artist will help you see what it will all look like. An interior designer can work with you and the artist or architect to make certain the home has a flow inside, once the buildings are connected. Many people are looking for the same thing: they want to be certain they are happy with the results and seeing it beforehand is a great help. I cannot guess what costs for these services in that area would be but if it helps ensure it's what you both want and will be happy with, the renders will definitely help with visualization. Good luck and I hope you find the assistance you need with your project on the big island! That mystical Hawaiian rainforest you mentioned sounds spectacular! **Q: Kitchen task lighting; lighting inside glass doors** *(in Design Dilemma)* All of the advice I see on houzz is at least two years old. Maybe the answer would be the same today but I just want to check. What lighting would you recommend inside glass doors? We are building upper cabinets with smaller glass doors above the wood doors. Also what task lighting do you recommend under the upper cabinets? A: LED strips. Flat, versatile, excellent for glass doors. They come in a roll and should be professionally installed. Same for under the cabinets. Very low profile and my favorite for in cabinet lighting and beneath cabinets or countertops. Flexfire LEDS. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-08.*