Perhaps Andrea at Fine Finishes Custom Design Solutions
is the person to call if you are looking for colour swatches but from our experience this is not the company to call if you are looking for an interior designer with innovative ideas.
The great reviews on this site led us to believe she could help us plan a major renovation of our family / entertainment room. Not only were we disappointed with the lack of ideas and alternatives, we were very taken aback with the approach Andrea and her partner took as they tried to pressure us into allowing them to take on the project as the primary contractors -- without ever providing us with the design plan we were looking for in the first place. Some of the "solution" suggestions dealing with construction and drywall installation were so off the mark that it was clear they did not know what they were talking about.
In the end, we were out several hundred dollars, a lot of wasted time and received a couple of paint chips in return.
Check credentials. C.I.D.C. and P.D.R.A. refer to paint certificates. The initials do not represent a degree or diploma in interior design or construction from an accredited institute of higher learning. Also, based on a posting on HomeStars by the City of Toronto, be sure to check if the people offering their services to renovate are licensed with the City: "Building renovators, Plumbing contractors, Heating contractors, and anyone holding him/her self as a contractor in the building renovation field requires a City of Toronto License. Call 416-392-6148 to verify if the contractor is licensed or to file a complaint.” I wish I had seen this earlier.
Fortunately we found a real contractor with great credentials and far more design ideas than this firm offered. In no time, our renovation was completed to perfection by real professionals.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $400.00
- Company Response
It took a while to figure out who this disappointed client could be.
Why [the customer] waited 13 months to post a review puzzles me.
After finding out from [JB] that the first designer walked out, I should have been more wary. However I was up to the challenge.
[JB] was, as are all our clients, aware of the hourly rate, and was given a colour consultation for which she paid $236.25 (1.5 hours).
She then asked for assistance in giving her some ideas for her basement. Another appointment was made later in February 2008.
[JB] was supplied comprehensive drawings for built-ins surrounding the fire place and a wet bar according to her wishes and needs by a licensed carpenter, a quote for gas modifications by a licensed gas fitter, electrical modifications and pot lights installation quote by a licensed electrical company, floor plans and drawings by myself.
During that time [JB] did not give any indication that she was not satisfied with the suggestions. In the nature of business, you supply quotes for jobs – some you get and others you do not. After giving the quotes, we did not hear back from them and assumed that they did not wish to proceed. JB was invoiced for the floor plans and drawings and still outstanding balance with our company.
I do strongly agree with [JB] that you should not only check all contractor’s credentials with the City of Toronto but also check with your local Better Business Bureau (www.ccbbb.ca) to see if there have been any complaints lodged against them. Speaking with former clients will also give you a good idea as to their work ethics.
In addition I would also advise clients to seek out at least 3 quotes from different companies. All quotes should be written in detail so you can compare the fine points.
And to further clarify C.I.D.C. refers to Certified Interior Design Consultant and P.D.R.A. refers to Painting and Decorating Retail Association.