What is Designer On Call?
Designer On Call is Boston Design Center's outreach service providing personal connections between prospective clients and design professionals. Designer On Call members have the talent and experience to create the right environment to compliment your lifestyle. Whether you need to select one item, design a room or an entire project, Designer On Call will be "on call" in the Boston Design Center. How may we help you today?

Where is Designer On Call?
Designer On Call is conveniently located in the lobby of Boston Design Center. We are available to service your design needs each business day, Monday through Friday, 10:00a.m. to 4:00p.m.

Is there a cost for Designer On Call?
Designer On Call offers a free one-hour consultation with a Designer On Call professional. You may spend this hour as you like — reviewing floor plans, discussing design solutions, or seeking out just the right furnishing or accessory. There is no obligation. Should you wish to enlist the services of your Designer On Call designer, they will be happy to discuss professional fees and pricing structures. Our showrooms are not retail stores, so business here is conducted very differently. Designer On Call simplifies the process and helps you maximize the purchasing power and enjoyment of your design investment.

Do all Designer On Call members work alike?
Designer On Call is a network of over 20 design professionals who take interest in promoting their very specialized services to consumers. Each designer maintains their own, independent practice and averages over fifteen years of professional design experience. They have a working knowledge of space planning, architecture, electrical and plumbing as well as appropriate installers for wallpaper, tile, cabinetry, window treatments and upholstery. Every designer is different, just as every client is different. Many Designer On Call professionals have specialties in area such as bath design, historic, restoration, contemporary design or lighting. The Designer On Call service helps you select a designer that is well suited to you needs.

How do I meet with a Designer On Call?
You may call ahead to schedule an appointment with a designer. Please call 617-449-5506, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Many Designer On Call designers have small portfolios online at BostonDesign.com/DOCDesigners.cfm. Feel free to browse as you see fit.

Is merchandise available for immediate purchase?
Select items such as lighting, art, antiques, accessories, bath fixtures and rugs are available for immediate purchase. Many showrooms also display a great variety of floor samples that are readily available. Most product, however, is uniquely selected to suit you needs and lifestyle specifications. Our showroom sell components. The right chair for your needs might be found in one showroom; the right fabric to upholster it may be found in any of 29 showrooms that feature fabrics. Coordinating such an order requires a lead time averaging 8 to 12 weeks. If you design needs are more immediate, your Designer On Call designer can help you locate options available on a quick-ship basis.

How do I pay for purchases?
The Designer On Call requires a deposit from you before an order is placed with a showroom. The balance or payments are discussed and agreed upon between you and your Designer On Call. Some showrooms honor credit cards, but others require cash or checks for "off the floor" purchases. Kindly advise your Designer On Call if you wish to make purchases during you initial visit.

Who will arrange for delivery and installation of my purchase?
Your Designer On Call will coordinate with you delivery and installation services to guarantee that all purchases are properly specified, customized and completed. There are additional costs for these services.

How well does Designer On Call work?
Very! In its first year of service, Designer On Call successfully linked hundreds of consumers with design professionals. Some projects have been very small, and some have been quite elaborate. Designer On Call works because it offers consumers a free, no obligation education on interior design options available. Clients feel comfortable learning that a project can be completed all at once or that it can be pieced together over time in phases. We'd be happy to help you define your interior design needs.

How do I prepare for Designer On Call?
When you meet with your Designer On Call, you will be asked to describe the space in question, your style preferences, your living style and more. Anything that can help your introduce yourself and your project is helpful. Consider bringing any of the following: floor plans or architectural drawings or room measurements photos of the space photos of existing furnishings magazine clippings of settings you like color samples. You may also complete our Design Project Questionnaire to help identify your preferences and needs.