General FAQs

  • Spaces Refined is designed for discerning homeowners who want to lead their own renovation but with flexible expert strategy and advice, structure, and support. Rather than managing the project for you, I give you the tools, frameworks, and personalised advice you need to stay in control, make confident decisions, and achieve elevated, design-led results without hiring a full-time team.

  • Yes. I work with clients across the UK, Europe, and globally. Many of my services are remote-friendly, including digital toolkits, consultancy calls, and live group programmes. I’ve also worked with clients purchasing second homes abroad and offer strategic guidance that takes local context into account.

  • That’s perfectly normal and something I specialise in helping with. Whether you’re just collecting ideas or already knee-deep in decisions, we can pinpoint where you are in the renovation journey and what your next best steps should be.

  • Absolutely. Kitchens, bathrooms, extensions, and even garden rooms all benefit from strategic thinking and intentional design. My tools and sessions are designed to scale so even small projects feel considered and cohesive.

  • Yes, depending on the service you choose. In 1:1 sessions or live workshops, I often offer supplier suggestions, design insight, and material recommendations that suit your style and brief. In the Atelier (membership) or retreats, I also share curated resources, swatches, and inspiration boards (launching soon).

  • Absolutely. One of the core pillars of Spaces Refined is helping you plan smartly and avoid costly mistakes. I’ll help you set realistic budgets, understand where to invest, and guide you in avoiding the most common (and expensive) pitfalls.

  • Not at all. You’ll leave every session or course with actionable tools and a clear plan. If you’d like to continue working together, you can join The Atelier, access downloads, or book additional sessions whenever you need extra support or clarity.

  • Spaces Refined is designed to support you as and when you need it — offering strategic guidance, expert insight, and a clear process to help you lead your own renovation with confidence.

    But there are times when a full-service team is the better, safer, and more efficient choice.

    If your project requires any of the following, you’ll be best served by appointing a full architectural or interior design team from the outset:

    • Complex structural design or coordination, such as extensions, basements, new builds or anything involving significant structural change

    • Challenging statutory consents, fire strategies or permits that require detailed drawings, technical reports, or consultant coordination

    • Specialised services or systems, including advanced Audio/Visual integration, sustainability targets or energy-efficiency upgrades that need full-time design input

    • Full project support, from detailed drawings and specification packages to tender documentation and onsite coordination

    • Active site and construction management, where constant oversight and coordination is essential

    • Done-for-you design, where the entire creative and technical process is delivered by a professional team

    Spaces Refined is here to provide clarity, guidance, and expert direction, but when the complexity of a project demands continuous input or detailed technical design, a dedicated full-service team is the right path.

Retreat FAQs

  • Absolutely. We welcome international guests from around the world. Turin is well-connected via air and train, and many of our past attendees have travelled solo from Europe, the US, and beyond. You’ll receive a full welcome pack with travel suggestions and support.

  • Not at all. Whether you’re gathering inspiration, about to start your project, or already part-way through, the retreat offers invaluable clarity, strategy, and insight plus a community of like-minded women to share the journey with.

  • Not at all. These retreats are designed for passionate homeowners, not industry professionals. We explain everything in clear, empowering ways and give you tools you can use, regardless of your background.

  • Yes, absolutely! Many of our guests come on their own and leave with lifelong friends. You’ll be welcomed into a warm, thoughtful, and inclusive environment from the moment you arrive.

1:1 Online Power Hour FAQs

  • Studio Sessions are relaxed yet focused, and always tailored to you. Once you book, you’ll receive a confirmation and a link for your video call. At the time of your session, we’ll meet via Zoom or Google Meet, and you’ll be invited to share your plans, questions, or layout in a way that suits you best. Whether we’re reviewing your floorplan, refining a design direction, or talking through a sticking point, the session is collaborative and entirely shaped around your needs.

  • You can share your space in real time using your device’s camera, or you might prefer to prepare photos, videos, or PDFs in advance. Many clients find it helpful to create a short presentation or upload a selection of images to their consultation prep form. We can also screen share during the session to walk through layouts, inspiration, or product links together.

  • More than you might expect. I design spaces every day and can quickly get a sense of what’s needed. Most clients leave feeling energised, reassured, and full of fresh ideas. Whether you’re at the very start or navigating a tricky decision mid-way through your project, this session is designed to move you forward—with clarity and confidence.

  • All consultation times are displayed in your local time zone, no matter where you are in the world. There's no need to convert—our system recognises your location and adjusts the schedule accordingly.

  • The Studio Sessions are not e-design packages. They’re collaborative consultations led by an experienced architect and interior designer, designed to give you immediate expert feedback and direction. E-design often involves static deliverables from less experienced designers, while our sessions are tailored, strategic, and rooted in over 25 years of professional expertise. You won’t receive generic room mock-ups, you’ll receive real answers to the questions you care most about.

  • If you're looking for help with sourcing, I'm happy to share personalised product suggestions from UK-based suppliers that suit your aesthetic, space, and budget. While this isn’t a shopping service, many clients come away with beautifully aligned recommendations they wouldn’t have discovered on their own.

  • I do my best to keep availability up to date, but if you’re planning ahead or can’t find a time that suits, simply email me at catherine@spacesrefined.com. I’ll do my best to accommodate you or suggest an alternative that fits your schedule.

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