Consultation - Interior Architecture Services

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Q: Do you charge for Interior Architecture consultations?
Yes. We begin with a Discovery Consultation (KSh 20,000) where we review your floor plans, site photos, or existing spaces. This session includes preliminary sketches and action points. If you proceed with a full proposal, this fee is credited toward your project.

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Q: What does the full Interior Architecture proposal include?
Our proposal covers space planning, mood boards, materials and lighting palettes, detailed drawings, and 3D visuals. The proposal cost depends on project scale and complexity.

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Q: How long does the Interior Architecture process take?
Timelines depend on project size and scope. Residential proposals take 4–5 weeks, while large commercial projects may require 6–8 weeks.

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Q: Do you handle both design and project management?
Yes. We provide end-to-end services: from conceptual design and technical drawings to site coordination, contractor supervision, and sourcing of finishes and furnishings.

 

Q: Can you work with my existing contractor?
Absolutely. We collaborate with client-appointed contractors as long as they adhere to design specifications.

 

Q: What if I live outside Kenya?
We offer virtual consultations and digital deliverables. For international projects, we coordinate with local contractors and can travel for key milestones.

 

Q: How do you structure payments?
Payments are milestone-based:

• 40% on proposal approval

• 40% on delivery of construction drawings and 3D visuals

• 20% at handover of final design package.

 

Q: Do I have to pay for design before construction begins?
Yes. All design fees must be fully settled prior to construction.

 

Q: Who owns the design and drawings?
All designs, drawings, and visuals remain the intellectual property of Retro Den Studios. Once fees are paid, you are licensed to use them for your project only.

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Catalog & Quotations - Materials Supply 

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Q: Are your catalogs available for download?
Yes. All our catalogs are available for download. You can browse cabinetry, wardrobes, doors, windows, lighting, sanitary fittings, tiles, hardwood flooring, and décor at your convenience.

 

Q: How do I get a quotation from your catalog?
Once you have selected all your preferred materials from our catalogs:

• You can send us your drawings for a free quotation, or

• Make an appointment using our consultation structure if you’d like tailored design advice alongside the quotation.

 

Q: What is the minimum order?
Orders are processed for bulk supply only, with a minimum of one 20ft container. This allows us to consolidate materials and reduce shipping costs.

 

Q: How long do orders take?
Average lead time is 8 weeks door-to-door, including consolidation, shipping, and delivery.
All quotations are inclusive of custom duty & clearing fees.

 

Q: Do you provide finishes and décor sourcing?
Yes. We curate and supply cabinetry, doors, windows, glass railing, lighting, flooring (tile & hardwood), sanitary fittings, and décor. Larger orders are consolidated into container shipments originating from China.

 

Q: Can I trust the products from China?
Yes. Retro Den Studios only deals with accredited and vetted manufacturers who guarantee specifications. We only source from trusted suppliers with whom we have a proven track record and after-sales support.

 

Q: What is the guarantee that products from China will arrive safely and not damaged?
Retro Den Studios goes the extra mile to ensure fragile packages are palletized and protected. In addition, all products are insured during shipment for peace of mind.

 

Q: Will I be missing items that I have ordered?
No. Retro Den Studios works directly with manufacturers and oversees the shipping manifest to ensure all products listed in the order are included.

 

Q: Do I have to travel to China?
No. Travel is not required. What you see in our catalogs is exactly what is shipped.

 

Q: What happens if the material is no longer produced?
Retro Den Studios will recommend a closely matching alternative product of equal or better quality.

 

Q: What if I only want one or two pieces?
Our catalogs are designed for bulk supply. For single-piece or smaller purchases, we recommend working with our local retail partners.

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Smart Homes  - Turnkey Projects by Retro Den Studios 

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Q: What are turnkey Smart Homes by Retro Den Studios?
Retro Den Studios delivers fully finished turnkey Smart Homes — meaning we handle everything from architectural design and interior planning to sourcing, construction supervision, and handover. All finishes are pre-purchased to avoid delays, and homes are delivered move-in ready within 6–12 months. You simply receive the keys to a complete, sustainable Smart Home without managing multiple contractors.

 

Q: Can I request design changes to a Smart Home?
No. Our Smart Homes are standardized and pre-purchased to ensure quality, efficiency, and timely delivery. Any design changes would delay the project and increase costs.
If you want a fully customized home, you can take advantage of our Consultation services, where we create a bespoke design package tailored to your vision.

 

Q: How are payments structured for a Smart Home?
Payments are milestone-based and spread across four stages:

1. 20% – Down Payment: Confirms the reservation and secures intellectual property rights to the design.

2. 30% – Foundation & Structure: Due once site works and structural elements commence.

3. 30% – Completion of Roof: Payable upon completion of the roofing stage.

4. 20% – Final Handover: Paid before delivery of keys and possession of the completed turnkey home.

 

Q: What if I do not complete the payments on time, or if I forfeit the project?
If payments are not completed on time, or if you forfeit the project:

• You will receive a refund of amounts paid, less the 20% initial down payment.

• The down payment is non-refundable, as it covers design, procurement, and project preparation costs.

• All designs, drawings, and partially completed works remain the property of Retro Den Studios until full payment is settled.

• The land remains the property of Retro Den Studios until full payment is made. No transfer of title or ownership occurs before the final handover.

 

Q: Why should I choose a Smart Home instead of a standard home?
Standard homes may appear cheaper upfront but are overbuilt, inefficient, and costly in the long run. A typical 3–4 bedroom household spends KSh 40,000–50,000 per month on electricity, translating to millions over a lifetime. Smart Homes slash this cost with energy-efficient systems, saving you up to 70% on bills.

Think of it like cooking: we no longer cook with three stones and firewood when we have a microwave. The future is the same with homes — technology makes life easier, cheaper, and more sustainable. Smart Homes are the “microwave of housing,” leaving outdated, wasteful systems behind.

 

Q: What makes Smart Homes more flexible than standard houses?
Smart Homes are adaptable. Features like modular lighting, smart thermostats, and automated shading can be adjusted from your phone — whether you’re at home or abroad. Unlike rigid, overbuilt standard houses, our Smart Homes are designed with technology that evolves with your lifestyle, reducing waste and allowing upgrades without major demolitions.

 

Q: How do Smart Homes use technology to save costs?

✔ Smart lighting & sensors – lights switch off when not needed
✔ Solar + battery storage – reduces dependency on KPLC
✔ Smart plugs & thermostats – precise control, zero wastage
✔ Smart locks & security cameras – safety at your fingertips
✔ Double glazing & automated shading – natural cooling lowers A/C costs

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Q: Are Smart Homes eco-friendly?
Yes. By design, Smart Homes reduce carbon footprints. Solar power, natural ventilation strategies, sustainable building materials, and water-efficient systems are built into the architecture. This ensures your home is not just beautiful and modern — but also part of the global move toward greener, sustainable living.

 

Q: What optional upgrades can I choose?

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• Rooftop pergola with BBQ

• Indoor fireplace

• Central air conditioning

• Bespoke wall & ceiling décor

• Enhanced solar integration

 

Q: Do Smart Homes come with warranties?
Yes. Structural works are covered by a 1-year warranty, while smart systems, finishes, and equipment carry manufacturer warranties (typically 1–10 years).

 

Q: Can I finance a Smart Home purchase?
Yes. Retro Den Studios works with partner banks and SACCOs to help clients access mortgages or construction loans.