Frequently Asked Questions

For custom commissioned artwork:

Your work seems to be somewhat contemporary in style. Is it compatible with other more traditional styles?

Yes. Although Contemporary design is my first love (including Organic, Northwest and Desert Contemporary), certain other styles such as Transitional, Mid-Century Modern, Bungalow, Arts & Crafts, Craftsman and Art Nouveau are highly compatible as well. With these, I like to take a little more progressive approach -- what can we add that is creative, fresh and new? Within the context of the style there are endless opportunities to be innovative.

Describe the overall process of a typical project.

Typically, we can get started with a simple phone call. We discuss the client’s goals for the project, likes and dislikes, and possible locations for artwork. The client can email photos and dimensions of the space, and if it's new construction, I receive a set of blueprints. Occasionally, it may be desirable to arrange an initial meeting in person at the site, but this isn't always necessary.

After our first contact, a proposal is prepared that lists brief descriptions and fees for each of the possible works of art. The proposal usually contains a few suggested packages to help the client make a selection. Once the artwork has been selected, a contract is signed, and I go to work creating a design that meets the client's approval. Prefabrication of the artwork follows. During this time, I keep in touch with the client to inform them of the progress being made in the shop. All of the artwork components are then shipped to the site and installed. The final step is to install a signed title plaque and photograph the final result.

Do you charge for our initial pre-contract meeting?

Yes, if a face-to-face meeting is necessary or desirable. I charge for my travel expenses (I live in Oregon) plus a per diem. The cost of travel changes continually, so a quick phone call to me will get you a current quote. If after our initial meeting we decide to go ahead with a project, all of the meeting fee is credited toward the contract. If not, then my time and expenses have been covered.

How do you charge?

I charge a fixed fee for each project. The client knows what the total price will be up front, and the scope of services is listed in the contract. Pricing varies dramatically, but as a very rough general guideline, the layered murals typically begin at $20,000 plus travel expenses (travel is charged separately).

What is your payment schedule?

The overall fee is divided into thirds, and is paid at the following points in the project:

• One third is due at the signing of the contract to begin the project,
• The second third is due upon completion of the artwork prefabrication,
• The final payment is due at the completion of the artwork installation.

How early in a project do you need to be involved?

Earlier than you might think. The best time is near the end of the architectural design phase, once you have the basic floor plan and elevations. At this time, it’s easy to make minor adjustments to accommodate any proposed artwork. The idea is to avoid construction delays and expensive Change Orders by planning everything before construction begins. Waiting until the building is being framed is a common mistake. One client signed a contract on Monday and expected me to begin installing artwork (that I hadn’t even started designing) by Friday! Needless to say, that wasn't possible.

Do you work with clients who are remodeling?

Yes. Though new construction offers the most design freedom, I also enjoy working on existing buildings -- and witnessing the dramatic contrast between the “before” and “after”!

Do you provide artwork only for homes?

Although most of my work is residential, I also do high-end commercial and healthcare projects. The artwork is also particularly well suited to hospitality projects (such as country clubs, performing arts centers, resorts, airport lounges and retirement centers) where a unique marketing identity can be supported by the artwork for the purpose of standing out among competitors. Examples of non-residential work can be seen in the Gallery section of this website.

Copyright Richard Houston 2004 - 2010. All rights reserved.