With someone to sort through your options, help you make those big decisions, and show you what it all could look like, before you spend the money.
You can stop feeling overwhelmed by your renovation
easy exterior design
Photo by Mitchel Lensink
Life these days...is just...totally crazy. And trying to design an exterior on top of work, family, and daily life feels impossible.
But you don't have to feel that way anymore...
Because the professional, experienced design help you need with is right here, for a tiny portion of your renovation budget, with results in just a few short days.
this is the help you need
Because it's time to finally get your dream home.
Photo by David Papazian
ready to feel confident?
Make confident decisions instead of second-guessing it all
Know how to communicate what you want to your contractor
See how it could look before you spend the money
Understand what makes the most sense for your home and your budget
Renovating doesn't have to be so overwhelming!
Because you can...
Photo by Joshua Hoehne
End your consultation knowing what you want, excited for your project to get finished, and feeling confident instead of overwhelmed.
feel confident
then
Picture how your home could look with a video presentation of photo renderings or line drawings showing multiple options for whatever you need. And ask as many questions as you'd like!
See What's Possible
next
Answer a questionnaire, take photos or send prints of your home and share links to your inspiration. And you can email whenever you have time - no meetings, no calls, no stress!
tell your story
first
How it works
Photo by Will Palmer
Because it's easier than ever to get professional answers to all your questions, see your home's potential, and know all the best sources for your budget - quickly.
exterior
Design help
thoughtful + EXPERIENCED
complimentary samples and swatches delivered to you
private board with clickable sources and alternates
unlimited revisions during your consultation
MULTIPLE PROPOSALS in a no-pressure video presentation
designs customized for your budget and climate
renderings or drawings to show your home's potential
easy collaboration by email with unlimited answers
Included
everything you need is
Photo by Chris Barbalis
Photo by David Papazian
Recent Designs
Mel is a gifted designer and communicator. She was able to articulate her reasoning that helped us to see exactly what and why she came up her plans while being kind and affirming. And Mel has already saved us time, money, and conflict. Her design plans are not only beautiful, but they are practical. When we have done other projects, it has been difficult and even unclear to us what we want and how to communicate it to our contractors. Not this time!
"Mel has already saved us time, money, and conflict."
from KAT
I knew our house needed updating but I didn't know how to achieve it or where to begin. Mel was able to quickly identify opportunities for making big improvements within our budget. She understood our special issues and helped us understand them too. Before the consultation I felt so overwhelmed and hopeless. After the consultation I now feel excited and hopeful that we can achieve a style that fits our desires and our budget. It was such a relief, and exciting, too!
"Mel was so insightful, so thoughtful, and so informative."
from SARAH
from TRACI
"The entire experience was exceptional."
Mel is extremely well-rounded in design, a solid planner and communicator and someone who keeps her promises most importantly. It is not common in today's world for people to do what they say they will do. Mel delivered on all timelines and her commitment to our project was felt at every turn. It's a design partnership, with open dialogue and mutual feedback and was very satisfying.
Mel delivered! She exceeded all our expectations - not only does she have a very collaborative and time conscious approach, she's SO thoughtful of what you are seeking. And leaves NO question unanswered. Mel considers the full context of your home (period-built, location, neighborhood) in creating her design concepts. That was terrific. After the consult, I felt perfectly confident to advance my exterior renovation with my GC. Her design eye is superb, but it's her thoroughness and how she ensures you are equipped to execute the concept yourself that is really special.
"This service is a real gem among a lot of options out there."
Susan in california
This process was easy, focused, and I was delighted with the care that Mel took. I truly felt that she connected with my vision in a far deeper way than mere design suggestions. This consultation got me out of my head and the rabbit hole of design research and showed me the perfect vision for my home. I felt overjoyed at the end!
"I got way more than my money's worth."
Laura in texas
Mel is talented, insightful, responsive and generous with her input and feedback. We could not have imagined a better experience even if we worked together in person. The renders were all so helpful in helping us make decisions in record time. And the video was a really great experience! Hearing her feedback over 30 minutes really breathed life into the renders. Without question, this is one of the most effective, valuable and fun ways to work on your project.
"This was one of the best experiences we've had as homeowners."
wayne + catherine in california
This could be you....
Mel nailed it in terms of my vision for our house. This was exactly the type of guidance I was looking for - I didn't need an architect, but didn't want to show my GC pics from Pinterest, either. I was floored with all Mel's support and her creativity, and I was impressed with her responsiveness. This was so worth it.
"After our consultation, I felt confident."
erin in washington
SUCCESS STORIES
carol in florida
"I feel like I'm much better equipped to make design decisions on the house moving forward, and my husband and I are more aligned now that our vision has been put on paper/PDF with actionable info. We learned a lot about our house, and appreciate its architecture even more than we did going into the consultation!"
"I'm much better equipped to make decisions"
sarah in north carolina
"Mel’s expertise and vision and speed and thoroughness are the best part of this experience. Incredible how we got exactly what we wanted and needed but how far it was from what we thought we originally wanted. I’ve sang Mel’s praises to everyone."
"We got exactly what we wanted"
lisa in colorado
"Her suggestions are transformative"
"Working with Mel was fun and efficient. She has the process finely tuned, and her suggestions are transformative. The end result is a clear plan that I am excited about. So worth it!"
christine in washington
" I just didn't know where to start and felt overwhelmed by the process so put it off. Mel provided multiple paint combinations, design scenarios and solid advice on next steps to get started. I can't wait to see the paint swatches and begin my renovation!"
"Working with Mel has been an absolute delight"
so Let's Get Started!
this is the help you need
Q + A Session
Full Exterior Design
select the consultation that works for you:
both include:
+ unlimited revisions during your consultation
+ no-pressure, pre-recorded video presentation
+ secure project portal to keep you organized
+ private pinterest board with links to sources
+ designs customized to your budget and climate
+ confidence that you've made the right choice
complimentary swatches for paint
3 DAY consultation for questions & revisions, DURING WEEKDAYS
front view of your home only
minimum of 2 different design proposals
full color line drawings
complimentary swatches for paint & materials
7 day consultation, with 4 DAYS FOR REVISIONS & QUESTIONS, including WEEKENDs
all sides of your home shown
minimum of 3 different design proposals
photo realistic renderings
donation to help the unhoused
4%
DESIGN time + expertise
22%
SHELTER + UTILITIES
33%
taxes + insurance
28%
marketing
5%
business + payment service fees
4%
website + email maintenance
3%
tools to complete your design
2%
where does your payment go?
This fee is for Design Consultation services only and does not include materials, supplies, trade services, or other vendor fees to complete your project.
Your confirmation email will contain a link to sign the Service Agreement & complete the Questionnaire, both of which are required before any Consulting work will begin on your project.
Consultation Services from West | South are non-refundable. However, rescheduling is possible should you need to delay your Consultation start date for any reason.
book YOUR FULL exterior DESIGN NOW
To start your 7-day consultation, simply choose from the highlighted Start Dates and complete your secure payment.
When booking, you'll be asked to choose a start time, but it's just a technicality. No meetings or calls will be needed since your questionnaire answers will provide me with all the information needed to start designing.
After payment, you'll be directed to your Welcome Page for the next steps.
Do you need structural help - adding dormers, decks, balconies, moving or adding windows, or designing larger additions?
I'm so excited to work together! But first, a few questions...
Do you need landscaping design help beyond an inspiration sheet to show your landscaper?
what's the next question?
This consultation does not include landscape design.
I am not a trained Landscape Designer, so this consultation will not cover:
- the exact plants you should buy or where you should put them
- the design of new retaining walls, decks, or pergolas
- driveway and walkway materials and designs
do you need help with your driveway or walkways beyond an inspiration sheet to show your installer?
what's the next question?
I'm glad to hear you'll be working with an Architect!
For this consultation, we can talk through new finishes for existing structures, or integrate plans or prints you've already received.
Let's book it!
Formal hardscape design is not included in these consultations.
Because hardscape like driveways and walkway materials are heavily regulated by local requirements, and highly influenced by local availability, the design of those surfaces are best left to local teams.
However, I can create an inspiration sheet for those areas, showing which colors, textures or shapes might complement your final design, so you can start working with your local team.
what's the next question?
Structural design changes are not included in these consultations.
These consultations are about the aesthetic design of your exterior, so structural changes like dormers, decks, additions, moving windows and other large structural adds that require on site review and architect buy-in, as well as local permits, are not included in these consultations. But, we will talk through new finishes for existing structures, and integrate plans or prints you've already received.
I'm so excited to work together!
But please understand, this consultation does not include:
architectural help
Adding dormers, staircases, balconies, decks, new additions, or moving windows, unless you already have prints.
landscaping help
Plant layouts & specs, pools, new pergolas or other major structures, unless you already have prints.
hardscaping help
Local materials for driveways, pavers, walkways, sidewalks, or retaining walls unless you already have prints.
Do you need structural help - adding dormers, decks, balconies, moving or adding windows, or designing larger additions?
I'm so excited to work together! But first, a few questions...
Do you need landscaping design help beyond an inspiration sheet to show your landscaper?
what's the next question?
This consultation does not include landscape design.
I am not a trained Landscape Designer, so this consultation will not cover:
- the exact plants you should buy or where you should put them
- the design of new retaining walls, decks, or pergolas
- driveway and walkway materials and designs
do you need help with your driveway or walkways beyond an inspiration sheet to show your installer?
what's the next question?
I'm glad to hear you'll be working with an Architect!
For this consultation, we can talk through new finishes for existing structures, or integrate plans or prints you've already received.
Let's book it!
Formal hardscape design is not included in these consultations.
Because hardscape like driveways and walkway materials are heavily regulated by local requirements, and highly influenced by local availability, the design of those surfaces are best left to local teams.
However, I can create an inspiration sheet for those areas, showing which colors, textures or shapes might complement your final design, so you can start working with your local team.
what's the next question?
Structural design changes are not included in these consultations.
These consultations are about the aesthetic design of your exterior, so structural changes like dormers, decks, additions, moving windows and other large structural adds that require on site review and architect buy-in, as well as local permits, are not included in these consultations. But, we will talk through new finishes for existing structures, and integrate plans or prints you've already received.
I'm so excited to work together!
But please understand, this consultation does not include:
architectural help
Adding dormers, staircases, balconies, decks, new additions, or moving windows, unless you already have prints.
landscaping help
Plant layouts & specs, pools, new pergolas or other major structures, unless you already have prints.
hardscaping help
Local materials for driveways, pavers, walkways, sidewalks, or retaining walls unless you already have prints.
This fee is for Consultation services only and does not include materials, supplies, trade services, or other vendor fees to complete your project.
Your confirmation email will contain a link to sign the Service Agreement & complete the Questionnaire, both of which are required before any Consulting work will begin on your project.
Consultation Services from West | South are non-refundable. However, rescheduling is possible should you need to delay your Consultation start date for any reason.
To start your 3-day consultation, simply choose from the highlighted Start Dates and complete your secure payment.
When booking, you'll be asked to choose a start time, but it's just a technicality. No meetings or calls will be needed since your questionnaire answers will provide me with all the information needed to start designing.
After payment, you'll be directed to your Welcome Page for the next steps.
PLEASE NOTE: this session does not include photo renderings. If you need to see the materials or colors photo rendered onto your house, please reserve a Full Exterior Design Consultation.
book YOUR Q + A session NOW
lesley IN north carolina
"Don't hesitate! My only regret is not doing this sooner. If you're even contemplating a remodel, this is the first step."
SARAH IN CALIFORNIA
“Working with Mel was the best money I've ever spent. I'm feeling so much more confident.”
stephanie in utah
“Mel's professional direction was a game-changer for our renovation.”
I want you to stop feeling overwhelmed with that big home project, and instead feel confident, empowered, and ready to make it happen.
I'm going to listen to what you want, make sure you have everything you need, and then? I'll show you how to get it done, too.
When it comes to any home project, it’s always tempting to go for the cheapest solution.
And I know that these consultations are more expensive than other options out there.
But making the investment in experienced and skilled professional design help can make a world of difference in the final outcome of your project.
because you gotta protect the investment
A cheap design won't meet your expectations or withstand the test of time.
Not to mention the huge potential for costly re-dos if you don’t like the final result or don’t have enough usable info to give your contractor.
With the knowledge, experience, and attention to detail I bring to your project, you can rest assured that your exterior design will be both beautiful and long-lasting.
Investing in a professional design experience is an investment in the future of your property.
designing driveways, walkways, pavers or other patio surfaces from scratch
receiving plant layouts or specs; designing pergolas, decks or other structures
getting technical build prints for contractors or permits
MAKING big changes to the structure (moving windows, adding staircases, dormers, decks, balconies or additions)
not
It's for:
SEEING OUTDOOR PATIO FURNITURE layouts with links to the products
Receiving inspiration to start the conversation with your landscaper
selecting hardware or light fixtures for existing locations
choosing colors & finishes for exterior siding, trim, railings, roofing, windows, doors, hardware & lighting
perfect
This is for:
structural help
Adding dormers, staircases, balconies, or decks, creating large additions, or moving windows - unless you already have prints.
These items require in-depth on-site measurements and the help & sign-off of a local architect!
landscaping help
Plant layouts & specs, pools, new pergolas or other major structures - unless you already have prints.
But, you'll have a visual inspiration sheet when we're done to get the conversation started with your local landscape team!
hardscaping help
Driveways, pavers, walkways, sidewalks, or retaining walls - unless you already have prints.
These materials are hyper-localized to source and are best left to local help! But we can include this in your inspiration sheets to get your local conversation started!
What's not included?
Have a design plan for your home's exterior that you are in love with!
Know that you've explored all the best options for your style and budget.
Be on the same page with your partner when it comes to the design of your house.
Have real samples for colors and materials to make educated final decisions.
Understand what to say to easily communicate with your contractors.
Know all the next steps to make your design plans into reality.
When we're done, you will...
get started now
Then take a small piece of your overall investment to make sure that what you're choosing for your project is what you really want, and that it's right for your home.
Make sure the decisions you're making now are not ones you'll regret in a year, and that your design will stand the test of time.
You want the best house for your budget, right?
Let's do this!
SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
Q + A Session
Full Exterior Design
select the consultation that works for you:
both include:
+ unlimited revisions during your consultation
+ no-pressure, pre-recorded video presentation
+ secure project portal to keep you organized
+ private pinterest board with links to sources
+ designs customized to your budget and climate
+ confidence that you've made the right choice
complimentary swatches for paint
3 DAY consultation for questions & revisions, DURING WEEKDAYS
front view of your home only
minimum of 2 different design proposals
full color line drawings
complimentary swatches for paint & materials
7 day consultation, with 4 DAYS FOR REVISIONS & QUESTIONS, including WEEKENDs
all sides of your home shown
minimum of 3 different design proposals
photo realistic renderings
This fee is for Design Consultation services only and does not include materials, supplies, trade services, or other vendor fees to complete your project.
Your confirmation email will contain a link to sign the Service Agreement & complete the Questionnaire, both of which are required before any Consulting work will begin on your project.
Consultation Services from West | South are non-refundable. However, rescheduling is possible should you need to delay your Consultation start date for any reason.
To start your 7-day consultation, simply choose from the highlighted Start Dates and complete your secure payment.
When booking, you'll be asked to choose a start time, but it's just a technicality. No meetings or calls will be needed since your questionnaire answers will provide me with all the information needed to start designing.
After payment, you'll be directed to your Welcome Page for the next steps.
book YOUR FULL exterior DESIGN NOW
This fee is for Consultation services only and does not include materials, supplies, trade services, or other vendor fees to complete your project.
Your confirmation email will contain a link to sign the Service Agreement & complete the Questionnaire, both of which are required before any Consulting work will begin on your project.
Consultation Services from West | South are non-refundable. However, rescheduling is possible should you need to delay your Consultation start date for any reason.
book YOUR Q + A session NOW
To start your 3-day consultation, simply choose from the highlighted Start Dates and complete your secure payment.
When booking, you'll be asked to choose a start time, but it's just a technicality. No meetings or calls will be needed since your questionnaire answers will provide me with all the information needed to start designing.
After payment, you'll be directed to your Welcome Page for the next steps.
PLEASE NOTE: this session does not include photo renderings. If you need to see the materials or colors photo rendered onto your house, please reserve a Full Exterior Design Consultation.
HANNAH in KENTUCKY
"We got to see and test out all of the different ideas we had spinning in our head to see what really works for our house and are so happy with our finished product!"
SHAARE in florida
"It has been fantastic to have a trusted advisor with the experience to help me make better decisions and avoid mistakes. It's an incredibly valuable experience."
LESLEY in NORTH CAROLINA
"Don't hesitate! My only regret is not doing this sooner. If you're even contemplating a remodel, this is the first step."
ANNA in illinois
"This is the best way to see what your house could be through the eyes of someone who understands its potential."
kate in california
"Mel was able to take all the ideas that were swirling in my head and give me something great to work with. I feel relieved and so excited to be able to move forward!
KImberly in arizona
"I would recommend this to anyone who is struggling with how to update the exterior of their home. To have a plan so I can move forward with confidence is a relief."
You can click the link below to see a breakdown of how your consultation fee is broken up to keep this very small business running. And since 2022, 4% of consultation profits has been, and will continue to be, donated to support the mission at HomeAid.
Where does my payment go?
Yes. E-Design is a great way to get your project started, or to select the final materials and colors to finish your project. I work on projects from coast to coast in the US - and Canada, too! So even if your project is local, the E-Design process is a great way to get the thoughtful design help you need in a quick and affordable way.
Do you only offer online exterior design services?
Absolutely not! Aside from your investment in design services, the rest of the budget is entirely up to you. So no matter if you want to DIY and save for another project, or if this is your forever home and you're going to go all out, you can expect the same level of service.
Is there a minimum project budget?
Yes, because I understand that you are an individual with individual tastes! Also, when you work with me, you can have pieces from any and everywhere - not just a specific group of stores or a tiny group of pre-approved vendors. And since I don't receive commission on materials or furnishings, you can trust that what I propose is what I think you'll love, and not what I make the most profit on.
Will you work with any style?
Frequently Asked
Questions
I acknowledge my privilege as a white cis-het woman and pledge to be an ally, as I am able, to those in my community and the world. I understand that I have a great deal to both learn and un-learn. I believe that everyone has an equal right to getting thoughtful design help for their home. This right is regardless of age, gender, biological sex, skin color, heritage, nation of birth, or religious affiliation.
What's your policy on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion?
