
Here is what some of Deelite Design's clients have said:
“We love the bathroom so much. Its looks fantastic, like a new bathroom. If you ever need a reference have them call me. I promise that it will be a glowing one.” –M.M.
"Dee, you are wonderful working with a team of artists and can paint rapidly and accurately. You are a tremendous asset and can paint on our team anytime!" -William Cochran, founder "Shared Vision"
"Dee, The faux tile in our kitchen is absolutely stunning. We have had many compliments and will be sending new clients your way. Thanks for taking such care in creating our "tile". It is spectacular! Most sincerely, Jaime and Kevin Watt"
"Dee, Patty and I love the mural! Thanks again, Patty and Dave"
"Dee, the basketballs look GREAT! Thank you so much!" -Donna Bair, East End Complete Fitness
"Dee, the invitations look amazing! Here's to more projects this year." -Director of Marketing, Water, Water, Everywhere
"Dee, Thank you! for the beauiful job on our entertainment center. It is just what we wanted. I am keeping your folder for future reference. There will be a lot to do to finish decorating our house." -JoAnne and Dave
Common Questions:
Here are some common questions clients have.
(If you have a question that is not answered here, please feel free to call me at 410-707-9246 or email me at dee@deelitedesign.com.)
Q. What is "Faux?"
A. Faux, (pronounced "fo") is French for "fake". Faux Finishing is used to replicate naturally occuring surfaces or elements.
Q. What is "Trompe L'oeil?"
A. Trompe L'oeil (pronounced "tromp loy") is literally translated to "trick of the eye." A trompe l'oeil painting will not look like a painting. It will look real.
Q. What are the benefits of having a faux finish compared to other methods of wall finishing?
A. Visual depth and dimension can be added to flat surfaces. Wall finish problems can be resolved or minimized. Architectural features like niches & tray ceilings can be enhanced. Faux can easily be matched to your existing décor. You will have a one of a kind finish that reflects your personality. Add color, texture, and life to you walls. Coordinate your home to create an atmosphere that reflects your personality! Have the ability to use materials in your decor that are either unavailiable now or extremely rare and expensive. Plus, wallpaper, if not hung properly, can grow mold and come off the wall in high humidity areas such as bathrooms. The products that are used by Deelite Design are formulated to be durable to withstand being in bathrooms, kitchens, play areas, and even outside!
Q. Can murals be painted on canvas instead of in my home?
A. YES! The benefits of having a mural painted on canvas are numerous. Here are a few examples.
Murals take a lot of time. By having an artist work in the studio instead of your home means not having someone in your home for weeks, or even months. Having the work done in the studio means your household is inerrupted for a minimal amount of time. Installation can take just a day or two. (Deelite Design offers professional referrals for paper hangers.) Second, the murals are removable. A mural is a large investment. If it comes time to move, the mural can go with you. Plus, if you are thinking of having a mural painted in your child's room and are worried that they will grow out of it, it can be removed and saved for future generations. Or a piece can be framed and hung in the new decor. Third, having a mural painted in the studio can reduce the cost. Costs increase when murals have to be painted in difficult areas such as stairwells and ceilings. By painting in the studio, Deelite Design can eliminate these costs plus travel time to and from your home each day. Fourth, you can be kept informed of the progress of your mural through email. Photos can be taken and sent to you, or you can stop by to see it in person. And finally, if you live outside of the Baltimore Metro area, murals can be shipped virtually anywhere!
Q. What is the process for hiring an Artist?
A. This is the first step.
Take a look at their website. See if they do in-house consultations. Deelite Design insists on in-house consultations for several reasons. First, it is crucial to see the space, take photographs, measurements, and to check the surface for the feasibility of the project. Second, a portfolio will be shown. Seeing the samples on the website is great, but who knows what they will look like in the space. Lighting may change the look of the desired finish and it may be too dark, too light, or the color will change. Third, if you have visuals, like magazine cut-outs, sketches, or photos, they help give and idea of what you are looking for. Fourth, it is good to see your home or area to get a feel for your tastes and styles.
After the initial consultation, a proposal will be drawn up. After your approval, work will begin on samples and or sketches, and the project will start when designated.
Q. How much do you charge?
A. It depends on the project.
Several factors are taken into account when determining price. Some artists choose to charge by square foot, others by how long it will take. Dee generally takes into account both and calculates a price that is fair for the work requested. The type of finish you need may take several passes around the room, which add to the cost. Murals are priced based on detail, location, and size. The old addage, "you get what you pay for" usually rings true in this profession. Some will say they are professional artists, but a true artist has years of schooling, professional training, and on-the-job experience. Ask to see their portfolio. Ask to see the artist's work in person. If they do not have any, that is a red flag. You should also be willing to talk about your budget with the artist and your expectations for the job. Are you willing to spend $10,000 or $1,000? If you'e not sure what decorative painting can cost, ask someone whom you know who had similar services completed.