our services

We offer a range of design services for our clients to choose from and tailor each scope of work to your specific needs. Often times our projects will include multiple service offerings and we work with you up front to define your unique package.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

For New Construction projects, we prefer to be involved as early as possible. With a background in interior architecture, we approach building plans through the lens of human experience. We consider functional use, furniture layouts, window coverings, and look for opportunities to infuse delight. By collaborating closely with owners, architects, and builders we ensure the interior design is thoughtfully integrated from the start.

Our services for new construction include interior space planning, finish material curation, decorative lighting selection and layout, cabinetry and millwork design, as well as hardware, tapware, and fixture specifications. We produce detailed technical drawings and product schedules that seamlessly fold into the architect’s construction set. Throughout the build process, we remain actively involved—reviewing submittals, inspecting installations, and addressing any issues that arise to help ensure the design is executed with care.

INTERIOR RENOVATION

We take on Interior Renovation projects ranging from single rooms to entire homes. Each project begins with a detailed documentation of existing conditions, captured in a 3D model. From there, we identify opportunities for improvement and begin developing design solutions. All concepts are explored in 3D and presented alongside finish samples, precedent imagery, and product cut sheets to provide a comprehensive design vision.

Our renovation services include interior space planning, finish material curation, decorative lighting selection and layout, cabinetry design, and specification of hardware, tapware, and fixtures. We produce detailed technical drawings and product schedules, culminating in a final package that can be handed off to your builder for accurate pricing and smooth execution.

Interior renovation projects often integrate seamlessly with our Interior Furnishing services, resulting in spaces that are both comprehensive and holistically designed.

INTERIOR FURNISHING

Our Interior Furnishing projects vary in scale—from single rooms and entire homes to commercial and multi-family amenity spaces. We begin by reviewing architectural plans or documenting existing conditions, then move into space planning for all furniture, furnishings, art, and accessories. An overarching design concept is developed early on, serving as a guiding vision throughout the process. We curate imagery and finishes for all proposed elements and present them to our clients for approval. Once approvals are secured, we proceed with procurement, consolidate all goods, and complete the project with a seamless white-glove installation.

EXTERIOR PALETTES

Sometimes our work takes us outside too! Our Exterior Palette projects typically arise when an owner wants to ensure the outside of their building speaks the same language as the inside. This work entails partnering with your architect or builder to select finish materials, colors, and products that work within the established parameters of the building envelope. We collect materials, select lighting and accessories, and create renderings that capture the overall design concept.

“I worked with Counterbalance Studio on the full interior remodel of my condominium. Their design team transformed the existing vanilla box into a warm, calm, and inviting space that feels wonderful to come home to. ”
— happy client

 frequently asked questions

  • In short: a different lens.

    Builders are masters of execution—they manage time, budget, and construction logistics. Architects design systems and structures with an eye for the big picture. Interior designers? We operate at the human scale.

    We obsess over materials, proportions, textures, light, and color—because these details deeply affect how a space feels and functions, lives, and supports well-being.

    We stay current on materials and furnishings because we know how much they matter. Not just to style, but to experience. It’s about more than aesthetics—it’s about how a home works and how it makes you feel.

  • Every project comes with its own unique parameters, so we begin by working with potential clients to define a clear scope of work. The first step is a 20-minute discovery call where we assess compatibility between your project needs and our team’s expertise and current bandwidth. From there, we’ll schedule a site visit (for renovations) or a plan review (for new builds). After that meeting, we craft a detailed Scope of Work & Design Fee proposal tailored specifically to your project.

  • Every project is a little different depending on its scale, complexity, and scope. To start the process we ask potential clients to fill out an Inquiry Form and we subsequently schedule a Discovery Call.

    When it comes to developing your Scope of Work, we estimate how many design meetings your project will require and typically space those meetings about three weeks apart. For example, if your project includes five design meetings, you can expect to complete the design phase in roughly 15 weeks before moving into the Documentation phase.

    The Execution phase (when the actual construction and installations begin) varies based on factors like supply chain timelines, skilled labor availability, and your contractor’s schedule.

  • We include one round of design revisions following each client presentation. Because our presentations are quite comprehensive, we’ll leave you with digital copies of all materials to review at your own pace. We ask that you share your feedback and any revision requests within one week—this allows our team enough time to thoughtfully incorporate changes and prepare for the next design meeting.

  • Considering the significance of the investment you are taking on with any renovation or new build, it can feel overwhelming to select a contractor. We suggesting taking into consideration the following when interviewing candidates:

    Rates & Contract Structure
    Ask how the GC structures their contracts. Common formats include:

    • Time & Materials

    • Fixed Price (Lump Sum)

    • Cost-Plus

    • Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP)

    Each has its pros and cons. For example, some clients gravitate toward Fixed Price for its predictability—but keep in mind that if the contractor overestimates, you don’t keep the savings. Understanding the structure—and how transparent and flexible the GC is within it can help you avoid surprises down the road.

    Personality Fit
    This could arguably be the most important factor. A good working relationship is built on trust and clear communication, and your gut feeling matters. Ask yourself: Does this person listen well? Are they responsive? Do they seem collaborative? A contractor who’s a good communicator and feels like a trustworthy partner from the outset is often the best choice—even if they’re not the cheapest.

    Visit an Active Job Site
    There’s no substitute for seeing their work in action. A site visit gives you insight into how the GC runs their jobs—cleanliness, crew behavior, and organization all speak volumes. If possible, meet the project manager who’d be assigned to your job; they’ll likely be your main point of contact.

    Call References
    Speaking with past clients is incredibly valuable. Ask what it was really like to live through the process—communication, quality, timeline, change orders, and how issues were handled. There’s a lot of confidence to be gained from hearing firsthand experiences.

  • Yes! We’ve completed projects across multiple states and are always open to discussing new opportunities beyond the Seattle area.