Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the questions we hear most from homeowners and brands in New York and Atlanta. Don't see yours? Write to us at studio@briancash.works.
Working With Us
What kinds of projects do you take on?
Homes, hospitality, and retail spaces, from a few rooms to full-scale renovations and new builds. We're happiest when we can shape everything from the facade to the furnishings, and we bring the same care to a single room. We don't work in a signature style; each design grows out of how you live and the place itself.
Where do you work, and are you licensed?
We're based in New York City with a presence in Atlanta, and we're a licensed architect in both New York and Georgia. Most of our work is in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and metro Atlanta, and we take on select projects elsewhere, partnering with a local architect of record (AOR) where needed.
Do I need an architect, an interior designer, or both?
If you're changing the space itself (new layouts, gut renovations, anything that needs permits), you need an architect. If you're furnishing or refreshing rooms, an interior designer. Many clients choose both, which is where we add the most value: the architecture is planned around the furniture, and millwork, lighting, and finishes are drawn into the construction set from the start. Already have an architect? We can join as your design architect or interior designer.
What sets your studio apart?
You work directly with Brian Cash, a Yale-trained architect and interior designer whose background includes AD100 and Elle Decor A-List firms. He leads every project personally, from first sketch to final installation, alongside the craftspeople, workrooms, and trade sources we trust. We keep our roster small on purpose so that never changes.
Process & Timeline
What does your process look like?
It starts with a discovery call and site visit, then a creative direction phase where we build a lookbook together so we're aligned on the feel before anything is drawn. Architecture projects then move through design, construction drawings, bidding, permits, and construction. Interiors move through design, documentation, purchasing, and installation. A surveyor you engage documents your existing space at the outset, and we're glad to recommend one. Every step is outlined on our homepage.
How long will my project take?
It depends on scope, approvals, and how quickly decisions get made. [Interiors typically take X to Y months, renovations X to Y months, and new builds X to Y months.] In New York, DOB permits and co-op or condo board reviews add time, so we plan for them from day one. Your proposal includes a phase-by-phase schedule.
Do you handle permits, contractors, and construction?
Yes. We manage zoning, DOB filings, and board approvals, run contractor bidding and help you compare proposals, then stay involved through construction, reviewing submittals and visiting the site at key milestones so what gets built matches the design.
Fees & Budget
How do you charge?
A fixed design fee based on your project's scope, not a percentage of construction cost, so our advice stays focused on value rather than on spending more. You pay a deposit to begin, then each phase's balance in equal monthly installments. Construction administration is billed hourly, since it depends on the builder and the site.
Can you tell me what my project will cost to build?
Not precisely before there's a design, since contractors price drawings, not ideas. On our discovery call we'll talk through your budget and where similar projects tend to land, then build in contingency and refine the numbers as the design develops. Throughout, we help you invest where it shows and save where it won't be noticed.
How does purchasing work?
On interiors projects, we handle sourcing, ordering, tracking, inspection, and delivery. Pieces are billed at net trade cost plus a procurement fee, which opens up trade pricing and makers not available at retail. On architecture-only projects, we pass our trade discounts directly to you, with no fee added.
What other costs should I plan for?
Construction (contracted directly with your general contractor), surveyors and engineers, permit and expediting fees, and warehousing for furnishings before installation. We flag these early so nothing comes as a surprise.
Getting Started
How do we get started?
Share your project or book a call. We begin with a free 15-minute intro call to see if we're a good fit, often followed by a paid 60-minute discovery call, credited toward your design fee if we move forward. It helps to have your location, timeline, goals, a rough budget for construction and furnishings, and any photos or plans.
How soon can you start?
We take on up to three new clients each quarter so every project gets our full attention. If your timeline is set, reach out early and we'll tell you where our calendar stands.