How much do you charge for your interior design?

It all begins with a conversation. The initial discovery call is complimentary, and from there the project is brought into a scope: new construction, renovation, how many rooms, what challenges, budget, etc. Each project is a custom package with design billed hourly. An up front estimate is created and agreed upon. As with everything, communication is key.

Where do you get your inspiration?

Everywhere. The other day I was inspired by a color I saw on a piece of junk mail. Nature is the best inspiration, and travel topping it off at number one. The seasons, artwork, fashion, it’s all fair game.

How would you describe your design style?

Our work is rooted in functionality, warmth, and longevity. We design spaces that feel layered, intentional, and lived-in, often blending modern and vintage elements in what we consider a transitional approach. While every project is unique, our aesthetic values timeless design over trends and prioritizes how a home truly functions for the people who live there.

It’s important to us that clients are drawn to our work and trust our creative direction. Design is a close collaboration, and compatibility matters.

How do you work with your contractor and/or architect? How does everything work together with you as the designer?

We have some preferred contractors/architects that we work with and sometimes the client will have their preferences on who they want to work with – we are happy to accommodate both scenarios. We like to come on as early as possible in the design phase as it’s important all parties work together from the start. We work directly with all parties and the client can be as involved as they would like. We find that when the plan is secured in the preconstruction phase of the process, the construction phase stays on course with fewer headaches and cost escalations.

How do you charge for your services?

Our services are billed hourly, with a retainer required to begin work. Design hours cover all time spent on your project including meetings, drawings, sourcing, coordination, communication, and documentation. We are highly organized and intentional with our time, and we believe transparency is key to a successful partnership.

Each project receives a tailored proposal outlining estimated hours based on scope.

Do you help with purchasing and ordering furniture and materials?

Yes. We are a full-service firm, which means we manage purchasing, tracking, and procurement on behalf of our clients. All selections are presented in organized, itemized proposals for approval before ordering.

Once approved, items move into invoicing and procurement, and we coordinate everything through our receiving warehouse partners so items are inspected, stored, and delivered intentionally.

Do you work with clients on small projects or single rooms?

We are a boutique, full-service design studio and thoughtfully select projects that allow us to deliver the level of care, detail, and follow-through we’re known for. Most of our projects involve multiple rooms, full floors, or whole homes. This ensures we can design holistically and manage the process seamlessly from concept through installation.

If you’re unsure whether your project is a fit, we’re always happy to start with a discovery call to explore alignment.

Do you work around the country?

While JoAnna Baum Interiors is based in the Chicago suburbs and most of our work is in the Chicagoland area, we take on select projects around the country when the scope, timeline, and logistics are the right fit.

Because we are a full-service firm, national projects require careful planning, trusted local trade partners, and a clear structure for communication, site visits, procurement, and installation. When those pieces align, we are able to bring the same level of detail, organization, and care to out-of-state projects as we do locally.

If you’re located outside of our primary service area and interested in working together, we recommend reaching out through our contact form so we can learn more about your project and determine if it’s a good mutual fit.