Designing your dream home with expert advice

Local interior designer Ally Maloney answers some of her most frequently asked questions

Starting a new design project, from planning to budgeting to shopping for tile, faucets, furniture and more, can be incredibly exciting and incredibly overwhelming at the same time. But you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve helped clients navigate the complexities of these projects with ease and confidence, all while having fun and enjoying the design process! These are some of our most asked questions:

How will a designer create a home that fits my style and needs?

As a design team, we start with a personalized concierge approach, taking the time to truly understand each client’s lifestyle, preferences, and vision. It’s more than just a design job; we handle every detail of the project with care and precision, ensuring a seamless process from start to finish.

We always ask questions regarding lifestyle, hobbies, personality, and wishes for the design, so that we build trust, respect, and understanding with the clients. This makes it possible to design a home full of their passions, needs, and overall, beyond their expectations.

We like to ask for inspiration imagery to ensure we are all visualizing the same thing. We can take the client’s creative vision and introduce possibilities they may not consider on their own. Our collaborative design process invites clients to be part of the journey. From initial brainstorming to 3D renderings and final selections, we encourage feedback at every step, so clients feel confident and connected to the final outcome.

When clients tell us, “I’d like a coastal style home, but I want it to look unique,” how do we go about making that happen?

When thinking of coastal design in Newport, we often think of blue & white, nautical and beachy themes. There is nothing wrong with loving all those things. However, as designers we ask our clients to explore outside their comfort zones, to think of new and creative ways to introduce colors and patterns that still feel coastal but also feel fun and fresh!

I love encouraging clients to think beyond the traditional New England coastal style because every home should feel like a true reflection of its owner. While the classic blue and white beach theme has its charm, we focus on curating unique, custom designs that go beyond trends. Your home is your sanctuary, and it should tell your story. By stepping outside the box, we create spaces that feel personal, meaningful, and authentically you — while still embracing the essence of coastal living in a fresh and unexpected way.

Will the interior designer coordinate with the contractor?

Think of us as your personal design expert and project manager, guiding you through every step, from start to finish. We seamlessly coordinate with your builders and tradespeople to ensure your project runs smoothly. Communication is key! Clear communication is a cornerstone of what we do. We provide clients with regular updates on timelines, costs, and design progress, eliminating uncertainty and providing peace of mind.

Ultimately, our goal is to deliver a smooth, stress-free experience. We manage the logistics, budgets, and installations so our clients may simply enjoy seeing their vision come to life, without suffering any of the usual headaches. It’s all about turning dreams into reality in a way that feels effortless and enjoyable.

Is hiring a designer worth the investment?

Interior designers possess a wealth of knowledge and resources. Through years of experience, I’ve created a streamlined process that keeps my projects running on time and on budget.

Our design expertise saves our clients time and avoids costly mistakes. While many people assume that purchasing home furnishings and decor through an interior designer can be more expensive, the opposite is often true. Interior designers know where to find high-quality and fairly priced pieces that will fit your budget, making furnishing a home more cost effective. A good interior designer has an extensive network of trusted vendors, contractors and more — providing you with a fantastic resource for selecting the best of the best for your home.

Ally Maloney opened Maloney Interiors in 2014 and has been helping clients create their dream homes ever since. Her office is located at 78 Thames Street in Newport. Call 401-999-5854 or visit the website at www.maloneyinteriors.com for more information.