FAQs
Most Frequently Asked Questions
When you hire an ARIDO (Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario) Registered Interior Designer, you can be assured that you will be working with a professional who has met ARIDO’s standards for accredited education, work experience and examination. As a member of our Association, we must adhere to an established code of ethics, maintain professional liability insurance and complete continuing professional development.
Interior decorating is often confused with interior design. In Ontario, the title of “Interior Designer” was regulated in 1984 with the passing of Bill Pr6. Only Registered members of ARIDO may use this title after satisfying educational, internship and examination requirements. Interior designers offer a broader range of services and have knowledge of interior construction methods, building code requirements and the building permit process. Interior decorators do not require the same level of training and focus primarily on the decorative elements of a space.
BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) holder is permitted by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to engage in the business of providing design activities to the public. Lisa Sandham Interior Design is a BCIN Registered Design Firm qualified under the category of HOUSE. We are able to provide permit construction drawings for both new home builds and renovations subject to the Ontario Building Code. When you see this designation you can be assured that your designer has passed examination and has met the requirements set out by the Province. To ensure your designer is qualified, visit QuArts Public Search Registry:
Yes we do! We often collaborate with Licensed Professional Architects (OAA) and Engineers (PEO) on both residential and commercial projects.
If the scope of your project involves constructing a new building, adding an addition or renovating an existing structure, then you will need a building permit. The Ontario Building Code Act and The Ontario Building Code set out standards for health, safety, fire protection, energy efficiency and accessibility. As a Registered Interior Designer, ARIDO and BCIN Design Firm (Part 9 HOUSE) we uphold the regulations created that ensure the safety of our clients and protection of their assets.
Absolutely not. Hiring an Interior Designer is a sound investment that can save you money by preventing costly mistakes and by sourcing items that offer you excellent value. We provide consultations to meet all budgets, whether it is a one hour consultation or a full-service design. We love helping our clients make sound decisions they can feel confident about.
We provide services on an hourly basis and provide our clients with an estimate of design fees once a scope of work has been determined. We bill our clients monthly for services provided and include full time details with all our invoices. We believe in full transparency. As your project progresses we will track actual hours to our estimates to ensure the process is as efficient as possible.
No, we do not. As an Interior Design consultant we are able to suggest appropriate finishes, product and services that meet our client’s specific needs and best interests. We draw from an extensive list of suppliers at a local and national level. We do not accept any commissions and will request that any designer discounts programs available be transferred to our clients directly.
When selecting an Interior Designer to work with, experience and qualifications matter. As a Registered Interior Designer, Lisa Sandham has enjoyed over three decades designing both residential and commercial interiors. She received her training working for various architectural firms and manufacturers. Lisa has worked on thousands of projects both small and large. Our areas of specialty include: private residences, healthcare, retail, corporate, institutional and hospitality. We offer our clients years of practical experience, extensive product knowledge, innovative design solutions and unparalleled service.
Yes! We are happy to provide references to all our potential clients. It is important to us that you feel comfortable when choosing an Interior Designer to work with.