Questions before hiring a designer

What Clients Want to Know Before Hiring a Designer (And Our Honest Answers)

Choosing a designer is about more than aesthetics. It’s about finding a team you trust to listen closely, think creatively, and guide you with care. At Collective Design, we believe the experience should feel clear, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable from the start. What sets us apart is our collective approach: an experienced team of designers bringing diverse perspectives and a shared purpose to every project. Planning, remodeling, furnishing, or doing it all, we guide you through each phase with clarity, craftsmanship, and partnership.

Below, we’re answering the most common questions clients ask as we begin working together. The more clarity you have, the more confident and excited you can feel about what’s ahead.

1. What does your process look like?

We begin with a personalized discovery phase designed to understand how you live, what inspires you, and how you want your space to feel. This foundational step allows us to align with your vision, priorities, and design preferences from the very beginning. From there, we move through a structured process that includes space planning, selections for fixed finishes, furnishings, and final styling.

Throughout each phase, our team provides detailed visual presentations, tailored recommendations, and consistent communication to ensure you feel informed and supported. With a dedicated project lead and the expertise of our full design team, we manage timelines, vendors, and details with precision. The result is a seamless experience and a space that feels deeply personal and beautifully executed.

2. How much is this going to cost?

While we’d love to offer a simple answer, the truth is that design costs vary based on your space, your style, and the overall scope of your project. That’s why budget is one of the first conversations we have. It should never feel uncomfortable to ask.

We bring clarity and transparency to every phase by aligning your investment with your goals, explaining where your dollars are going, and helping you prioritize what makes the most impact. If you have a defined range or are looking for guidance, we tailor our approach to fit your needs and ensure your budget is working in service of your vision.

3. How involved do I need to be?

That’s entirely up to you. Some clients want to weigh in on every detail, while others prefer to hand over the reins. Most fall somewhere in between.

Early in the process, we take time to understand your preferences. We’ll ask how often you’d like updates, what decisions you want to be part of, and how involved you want to be overall. From there, we tailor our approach to fit your style.

No matter your level of involvement, we keep you informed, aligned, and supported at every step.

4. Can I use some of my own furniture or art?

Absolutely. We love incorporating personal pieces that carry meaning. Our role is to integrate them into the overall design in a way that feels cohesive, layered, and intentional.

5. Do you offer construction or remodel support, or just furnishings?

We are a full-service studio with deep experience in both remodeling and furnishings. Our team helps select fixed finishes like tile, flooring, and countertops, and collaborates closely with your builder and architect to ensure everything works together seamlessly. From layout refinement to lighting recommendations, we guide decisions across the entire home. Whether you’re remodeling or starting fresh, we bring a cohesive design vision to every step.

6. How long will this take?

Timelines vary based on the scope of your project. Remodels and furnishing projects can often be completed in 6 to 12 months, while new construction or large-scale homes may take up to 2 to 3 years.

We establish expectations early and keep them realistic from the start. Our team is skilled at managing lead times, coordinating with vendors and trades, and keeping your project moving forward with care and precision. You’ll receive regular updates throughout so you always know what to expect and when.

7. Do I have to purchase everything through Collective?

No, although there are benefits when you do. We offer access to trade-only furnishings and custom pieces not found in stores. We also manage the full process—procurement, shipping, storage, and white-glove installation—so everything arrives on time, in order, and beautifully placed. Fewer headaches, better results.

8. Can you help me visualize the end result?

Absolutely. We use mood boards, renderings, finish samples, and curated design presentations so you can see the full vision before anything is ordered. These tools help translate ideas into something tangible, giving you a clear sense of how the space will look and feel. We walk you through each element, answer questions, and refine details together so every decision feels informed, intentional, and aligned with your style. Our goal is to help you feel confident in every choice and genuinely excited for what’s to come.

9. What if I’ve never worked with a designer before?

You’re not alone. Many of our clients are navigating the design process for the first time. We make the experience approachable, organized, and enjoyable. You don’t need a background in design—you just need a willingness to collaborate and share your goals. We’ll handle the complexity and guide you every step of the way.

10. How do you work with my builder or architect?

We collaborate closely with your architect and builder to ensure the design vision is carried through with clarity and precision. That includes reviewing plans, aligning on technical details, coordinating finish selections, and staying involved through site visits and key decision points.

Our team brings extensive experience partnering with a wide range of professionals including custom builders, contractors, and architects across different markets, regions, and project scales. We understand how to navigate varying workflows, timelines, and communication styles, and we adapt seamlessly to keep the full team aligned. When collaboration is strong, the process is more efficient, and the result is a beautifully cohesive home.

Clearing Up Common Misconceptions

Design isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about how your home functions, flows, and supports your lifestyle.
We don’t impose a particular style. We listen closely, help you define your vision, and bring it to life with clarity and care.
Hiring a designer doesn’t mean going over budget. It means investing wisely, avoiding costly mistakes, and gaining peace of mind.
Doing it alone doesn’t always make things easier. A skilled design team brings structure, guidance, and creative direction that saves time and stress.

Why Clients Choose Collective Design

We’re not here to impose a look. We’re here to elevate your lifestyle through thoughtful, tailored design. From floorplans to furnishings, our process is collaborative and comprehensive. We listen deeply, guide with clarity, and bring together the pieces that make a house feel like home.

Our designs are polished, personal, and grounded in how you live. We’re with you at every step, and we don’t take that responsibility lightly.

Ready to Explore the Possibilities?

Curious what it’s like to work with us? Let’s schedule a discovery call. We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you take the first step with confidence.

Let’s design something that reflects your life beautifully.

Breathing New Life into Mountain Homes

Smart Remodeling Strategies for Elevated, Refined Living

What once made a mountain home feel complete may no longer support the way you live now. The right remodel enhances comfort, flow, and connection—without losing what makes the home special. Whether it’s a disjointed layout, outdated finishes, or spaces that no longer reflect your lifestyle, thoughtful design can elevate both form and function.

At Collective Design, we specialize in high-end remodels that preserve a home’s soul while refining every detail. Our approach is collaborative and meticulous, helping clients unlock a property’s full potential while honoring its character. Here’s how we work with homeowners to reimagine their mountain homes with purpose and clarity.

Why Remodeling Is a Smart Investment

As lifestyles evolve and architectural needs shift, remodeling offers a powerful way to enhance both the experience and value of your home. A tailored renovation can:

Maximize existing square footage through improved layouts
Enhance comfort and function across key living spaces
Add lasting value in land-constrained mountain communities

Many mountain homes built in past decades were designed with more compartmentalized floor plans and fewer gathering spaces. Remodeling opens up the opportunity to bring these homes forward—enhancing flow, style, and usability without compromising their charm.

Two Remodel Paths: Cosmetic and Structural

Not every remodel requires a complete overhaul. At Collective, we guide homeowners through two clear paths—each suited to different goals and levels of transformation.

Cosmetic Refreshes

Perfect for guest homes, rentals, or more streamlined updates, these lighter renovations breathe new life into a space without altering its core structure.

In one recent project, we worked within the existing footprint, introducing barnwood detailing, adding stone to mirror the home’s exterior, and layering in fresh wallpaper and painted cabinetry. Updated plumbing fixtures, decorative lighting, and new furnishings elevated the home’s style and warmth—without any structural changes.

Full Gut Remodels

For long-term living or more significant lifestyle changes, a full remodel creates the opportunity to rethink the home from the inside out.

In another renovation, our architectural team reimagined a dated floor plan by removing walls and unifying the living, dining, and kitchen areas. We took the home down to the studs and redefined every surface and finish, from exterior materials to interior fixtures. The result is a seamless, open space that feels current and connected to its mountain setting—without losing the original spirit of the home.

Smart Design Strategies for Mountain Homes

A successful remodel begins with respect for the existing structure and a vision for what it can become. We focus on thoughtful, results-driven strategies such as:

Reworking layouts to improve spatial flow
Strengthening indoor-outdoor connections through material choices
Enhancing functional zones like kitchens, entries, and gathering spaces
Integrating architectural details that add richness and depth

Every element is carefully considered, ensuring the finished space reflects both the home and the people who live there.

High-Impact, Cost-Effective Upgrades

For homeowners starting with a smaller scope, we focus on updates that make an immediate and lasting difference.

The Big Three:

Paint: Refreshing walls and cabinetry instantly elevates the mood and energy of a space
Flooring: Unified, updated surfaces can dramatically change how a home feels
Furnishings: Clean lines, layered textures, and curated selections bring cohesion and style

Additional Smart Upgrades:

Decorative lighting, especially LED enhancements that improve ambiance and efficiency
Wall and ceiling treatments like wallpaper, paneling, or natural wood applications
Stone detailing that reflects the landscape and ties interior spaces to exterior finishes

These upgrades go beyond surface-level—they influence how the home is experienced day to day.

Where to Begin

Start with what you notice first. For short-term rentals or resale, surface updates may be enough. But if this is your long-term home, it’s worth looking deeper—into layout, materials, and how each space supports your daily life. Whether you’re exploring a light update or a full transformation, our team is here to guide the process with creativity, precision, and partnership.

Let’s bring new life to your mountain home. Connect with our team to get started.

let's get started

Where Design Meets Build: Celebrating a Unified Approach to Mountain Living

In the world of bespoke mountain homes, the most remarkable projects begin with a shared vision, clear communication, and a seamless, integrated process. At Collective Design, we believe building and designing a home isn’t two separate paths—it’s one intentional journey, shaped by collaboration from day one. We love partnering with builders like Teton Heritage Builders who share that mindset. We’ve had the privilege of designing homes across Big Sky and beyond—and one thing continues to stand out: when builders and designers work as one from the start, the result is more aligned, more efficient, and more attuned to the client’s vision—whether it’s a fully tailored custom home or a curated spec project designed with intention.

Shared Values, Distinct Strengths

At THB, every home begins with a commitment to craftsmanship, precision, and a deep understandingof the mountain environment. At Collective, we approach design through the lens of daily life—curating finishes, materials, and furnishings that feel as functional as they are elevated. When we collaborate, it’s not about handing off plans—it’s about solving challenges before they surface and shaping a home that tells the client’s story. We ask the essential questions early: Will this layout frame the view? Will these materials perform in a mountain climate? Will the finished home feel cohesive—from the architecture to the last layer of upholstery—and most importantly, will it reflect how our clients live, what they value, and how they want to feel at home?

Designing for Real Life

Our integrated process means we can weigh design and cost implications early—reducing surprises and ensuring every choice aligns with the vision and the budget. Whether selecting finishes that balance beauty with durability or designing a kitchen that flows as well as it functions, our shared goal is constant: to build homes that live as beautifully as they look.

A Partnership Built on Trust

Looking Ahead

While THB and Collective each work with many respected partners, there’s a distinct ease and clarity to the way we work together. Built on mutual trust and shared values, our collaboration leads to stronger outcomes and more seamless client experiences—rooted in alignment, not fragmentation.

As we continue to shape homes across the mountain West, we remain grounded in what matters most:quality, connection, and creating spaces that reflect the people who live in them. If Big Sky, or anywhere beyond, is on your horizon, we’d love to show you the kind of possibility that comes from the right design partnership.

Learn More About How We Work Together

Trends in Building, Design & Renovation

TRENDS IN BUILDING, DESIGN + RENOVATION

An important attribute in custom home creation is versatility. Collective Design has it in spades. Adrienne Rynes, President of Interior Design, says, “Our journey began with a vision to redefine interior design as a collaborative, tailored experience-one that seamlessly blends expertise with each client’s unique perspective.” Today the firm is known for their interiors expertise alongside strong architectural capabilities that are augmented by a chic showroom and shop in Frisco. Key to the company’s growth has been their flexibility and openness. Rynes explains, “At Collective Design, we believe that every project is a true partnership and the best designs emerge from thoughtful dialogue. Whether it’s reimagining a space for evolving needs or curating details that make a home truly personal, our process is guided by a deep commitment to craftsmanship and connection.”

ROOTED IN EXCELLENCE WITH METICULOUS ATTENTION TO DETAIL, WE MAKE SPACES THAT ARE VISUALLY COMPELLING AND DEEPLY PERSONAL.”

GETTING STARTED

Collective Design works on everything from existing home updates to complete new builds. When designing from scratch, Rynes notes, “Our process begins with discovery. We learn about our client’s lifestyle, preferences and aspirations while also calculating how to optimize a home’s views and natural light. Then we curate materials, layouts and palettes tailored to the homeowner’s vision.”

QUICK CHANGES

Not all transformations require a full-scale renovation. Sometimes a significantly smaller adjustment makes a massive impact. The Collective Design Creative Director Lisa Yates recommends …

Reworking the Kitchen Layout: Adding a custom island or open shelving redefines a space.
Revitalizing Surfaces: Limewashed walls, refinished hardwoods and statement backsplashes bring instant character.
Architectural Accents: Archways, beams and trusses add depth and personality.

SEE FEATURE IN LUXE

Designing for Winter Warmth

Designing for Winter Warmth: How We Elevate Mountain Homes

Winter in the mountains isn’t just a season—it’s a way of life. There’s something undeniably special about snow-covered landscapes, the crackle of a fire, and the quiet stillness of a crisp morning. At Collective Design, we create homes that capture that feeling—spaces that are as warm and inviting as they are beautifully designed.

As both designers and mountain dwellers, we understand the nuances of creating interiors that feel effortless in winter while remaining functional year-round. Our approach blends layered textures, intentional lighting, and natural materials to craft spaces that embrace the season with style and substance. Here are a few key design elements that transform a house into a winter retreat.

Layered Textures: Elevating Comfort

The right mix of materials makes all the difference in a home’s warmth—both visually and physically. Plush throws, soft rugs, and tactile upholstery don’t just add warmth; they create an irresistible sense of comfort.

This season, we’re drawn to rich, inviting textures like bouclé, shearling, and soft leather, layered with organic elements such as wool and linen. Imagine a bouclé armchair draped with a sheepskin throw or a handwoven wool rug adding depth to wide-plank hardwood floors. These subtle yet intentional choices transform a space, making it feel effortlessly cozy.

Lighting: The Art of Winter’s Glow

As daylight fades earlier, lighting becomes essential to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. We always layer multiple sources—ambient lighting from floor and table lamps, warm-toned bulbs, and the soft flicker of candlelight—to create an intimate, welcoming environment.

We gravitate toward fixtures with fabric or textured shades that diffuse light beautifully, casting a soft, golden glow. Choosing bulbs in the 2700K–3000K range ensures a warm ambiance, while dimmers offer the flexibility to transition from bright and functional to soft and serene. For the finishing touch, candlelight—whether in sculptural holders or oversized hurricanes—adds an element of effortless warmth.

Fireplace Design: The Heart of the Home

A fireplace is more than a design feature—it’s a gathering place. It naturally draws people in, setting the tone for an entire space. Whether framed by a sleek stone surround or softened with a sculptural plaster finish, the fireplace becomes a focal point that blends beauty with function.

We consider scale, materiality, and integration in every fireplace design. A statement stone facade adds drama, while reclaimed wood mantels introduce warmth and character. Thoughtful styling enhances the ambiance—stacked firewood, hand-forged metal accents, and oversized candles create a layered, intentional aesthetic. Lit or unlit, a well-designed fireplace invites connection and comfort.

Natural Materials: Bringing the Outdoors In

Mountain homes are deeply connected to their surroundings, and we reflect that in our designs. Incorporating organic elements like wood, stone, and leather brings depth and authenticity to interiors, grounding them in nature.

Our philosophy is all about contrast—pairing rugged materials with soft, inviting textures. A stone fireplace flanked by shearling chairs, a leather ottoman set atop a thick wool rug, or reclaimed wood beams that add architectural character. These elements work together to create a refined yet approachable warmth that feels right at home in the mountains.

A Shift to Warm Neutrals

We’re embracing a palette shift—moving away from cool grays and incorporating deeper, richer hues. Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Moose, embodies this transition, adding warmth and depth to interiors.

We love integrating these earthy tones through upholstery, statement walls, and curated accessories like woven baskets and ceramic vases. When paired with natural materials like suede, aged wood, or textured fabrics, warm neutrals create a timeless, layered look that feels both grounded and sophisticated.

The Details That Define a Space

Sometimes, it’s the smallest touches that make a home feel truly special. Thoughtful accessories—soft throws draped over armchairs, sculptural vases filled with seasonal greenery, and hand-finished candleholders—add layers of warmth and personality.

These elements don’t just enhance aesthetics; they make a space feel lived-in and loved. Whether it’s a curated collection of art books, a basket of plush blankets, or a well-placed accent chair, the details bring a home to life.

Winter Beyond the Holidays

Winter isn’t just about the holidays—it’s a season to slow down and embrace the comforts of home. There’s something inherently special about stepping inside from the cold to a space that feels like an embrace—a glowing fire, soft lighting, and textures that invite you to settle in.

At Collective Design, we believe home should be a reflection of effortless warmth and timeless beauty, no matter the season. If you’re looking to enhance your space for winter, we’d love to collaborate. Let’s create something beautiful together.

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Collective Design – Luxe’s One to Watch

Collective Design Named in Luxe Magazine’s Ones To Watch

Featured in Luxe Magazine Nov/Dec 2024

With true team synergy, strong businesses find success. Since its founding in 2015, Collective Design has quickly become a notable force in the luxury interior design world. Known for their collaborative approach, this Colorado-based firm is comprised of a dynamic team of designers, each offering a unique perspective. What distinguishes the team is their ability to tailor each project to reflect each client’s personal style, resulting in highly personalized spaces. With a foundation rooted in transparency, craftsmanship and bespoke service, Collective Design delivers seamless project management and client satisfaction. As they expand their national presence, their commitment to pushing the boundaries of design while staying true to their core values—trust, excellence and integrity—remains steadfast. Collective Design is poised to continue crafting exceptional, one-of-a-kind homes that perfectly embody their clients’ vision.

Adrienne Rynes, President of Interior Design

EXPANDING REACH

With roots in Colorado’s mountain home tradition, Collective Design has grown its impact nationwide. As their portfolio grows, the group is establishing itself as a key player in the design industry, creating spaces that reflect both innovation and individuality.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

Collective Design has established itself as a trailblazer in luxury interior design, consistently setting new benchmarks. Their commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and collaborative ethos have earned them wide recognition. As leaders, they continue to deliver spaces that are functional and visually striking, ensuring a lasting influence in the design world.

Partnering with Teton Heritage Builders

Dear Friends and Partners,

I’m excited to share that Collective Design has been announced as Teton Heritage Builders preferred design partner! This partnership marks a new chapter for us, and we’re excited to announce that Collective Design has officially been named the preferred design partner for Teton Heritage Builders! This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for us, and we couldn’t be more aligned in our shared vision of crafting exceptional spaces that elevate mountain living.

Together, we aim to set a new standard for luxury homes in Montana and Wyoming, blending our expertise in innovative design with Teton Heritage Builders’ legacy of superior craftsmanship. With their dedication to quality and our focus on creating refined yet livable environments, we’re confident this collaboration will offer our clients a seamless experience from concept to completion.

Our mountain modern design approach perfectly complements Teton Heritage Builders’ ethos. Whether it’s a serene retreat in Montana or a contemporary mountain home in Jackson, our team is committed to designing spaces that reflect each client’s vision and lifestyle. With our experience working both remotely and on-site, we’ll continue delivering exceptional results—wherever the project takes us. To support this, we’re enhancing our presence in Montana to ensure we’re always available to meet our clients’ needs with a personalized, hands-on approach.

As we join forces with Teton Heritage Builders, we’re excited to explore new opportunities and push the boundaries of mountain living. We look forward to continuing to create homes that resonate deeply with those who live in them, combining sophisticated design with the natural beauty of these extraordinary landscapes.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to this next phase of growth and creativity.

Best,

Adrienne Rynes

Latest Trends in Mountain Architecture

ELEVATED LIVING:
EXPLORING THE LATEST TRENDS IN MOUNTAIN HOME ARCHITECTURE

The team at COLLECTIVE ARCHITECTURE is dedicated to creating design solutions that enhance the lives of their clients in order to help them make lasting memories in their mountain homes. Working in Summit County and across the American West, they have developed a unique perspective on what truly defines a modern mountain home. For the latest trends, read on.

Mixed Materials

The use of wood, stone, and exposed steel in mountain homes ensures durability against harsh climates and adds aesthetic charm. This blend of materials results in a rustic yet modern look that is rich in texture and visually captivating, creating a cozy, welcoming environment that feels both timeless and innovative.

Varying Roof Styles

Mountain homeowners are choosing diverse roof styles which are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally adept. From Scandinavian-inspired gables and flat roofs suitable for rooftop decks, to low-slope shed roofs that blend with the landscape, these designs reflect a thoughtful balance of form and function, enhancing both the look and livability of mountain residences.

Open Floor Plans

The open floor plan, a defining feature of contemporary mountain homes, enhances the flow between living areas, making spaces feel larger and more connected. This openness creates a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for both family intimacy and social gatherings.

Large Windows and Operable Walls

Expansive windows and operable walls designed to blur boundaries between indoorand outdoor spaces create a harmonious living environment. They provide abundant natural light and fresh air, making the home feel open and connected to its surroundings, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty year-round.

Versatile Spaces

Also high on clients’ wish lists: versatile spaces that can be adapted for a variety of activities. Whether for sleeping, working, exercising, or storing recreational equipment like skis and bikes, these multi-functional areas are designed to accommodate the dynamic lifestyles of the modern mountain homeowner.

Luxurious Living

Last but not least, modern mountain homes redefine luxury by integrating amenities that elevate both comfort and lifestyle. Spa-like bathrooms, gourmet kitchens, and smart home technologies enhance everyday living, while outdoor spaces like heated decks, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits create perfect settings for relaxation
and entertainment

Trends From High Point Market 2024

2024 High Point Market Design Trends – Your Window into the Future of Interior Design

Welcome to the heart of interior design inspiration—High Point Market. It’s like the Olympics of our industry, where the best and brightest gather to unveil the latest in design innovation. As a hub of creativity and a melting pot of trends, High Point Market sets the stage for the evolution of beautiful spaces.

Our recent visit to this esteemed event was nothing short of a treasure hunt, where we immersed ourselves in the latest design concepts and emerging trends.

Discovering Warm, Earthy Tones

Move over, cool grays! The warmth of chocolate hues is making a comeback, and we’re loving it! Our time at High Point Market confirmed what we’ve been feeling—a return to rich, earthy tones that bring a sense of grounded serenity to any space.

Reviving Elegance with a Modern Twist

While avant-garde designs still turn heads, there’s a delightful revival of classical elegance with a contemporary twist. Think timeless aesthetics seamlessly integrated into modern settings, evoking a sense of enduring sophistication that feels fresh and exciting.

Exploring the Story of Textures

Textures stole the show at High Point Market—from the luxurious softness of bouclé to the bold allure of leather. These tactile elements add depth and character to spaces, inviting you to touch, feel, and immerse yourself in the sensory experience of your surroundings.

Basking in the Luminous Glow of Alabaster

Alabaster lighting fixtures are having a moment, and we’re here for it! Their soft, natural radiance creates a serene ambiance that highlights the beauty of any space. Picture warm tones and intricate textures bathed in a gentle glow—it’s pure magic.

Embracing Nature’s Bounty

Our love affair with natural materials—like stone, wood, and metal—continues to deepen, reflecting our commitment to authenticity and sustainability. The rising popularity of greige—a harmonious blend of gray and beige—is a celebration of nature’s organic beauty.

Blurring Boundaries Between Inside and Out

Outdoor furniture that’s just as stylish and comfortable as indoor pieces? Yes, please! High Point Market showcased a trend towards versatile living spaces that seamlessly blend with nature, blurring the lines between inside and out in the most delightful way.

Modern Mirrors with Timeless Appeal

The latest mirror designs strike the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance, infusing spaces with a touch of modern sophistication. Whether it’s pill-shaped or arched, these mirrors add a timeless charm that elevates any décor.

In Summary

The insights from High Point Market not only forecast the future of design but also reflect our evolving relationship with our spaces. We’re excited to embrace these trends and incorporate them into our upcoming projects. Join us on a journey to create extraordinary living environments that blend luxury with functionality, and beauty with practicality.

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