Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General

What is wellness design, and how is it different from traditional design?
Wellness design prioritizes human health and well-being by integrating non-toxic materials, environmental testing, biophilic design, and healthy building practices. Unlike traditional interior design, wellness design considers indoor air quality, EMFs, water quality, and other environmental health factors from the beginning of the design process.

What types of clients do you work with?
We work with homeowners, renters, real estate investors, developers, builders, architects, and real estate professionals. Whether you're living in your home, building new, remodeling, or preparing a property for market, we can support you with wellness-focused strategies.

Do you offer virtual consultations or work with clients outside of Portland?
Yes! We offer virtual consultations and remote services for clients across the U.S., as well as in-person support for clients in the Portland metro area and Pacific Northwest.

Can I work with you if I already have a builder or designer?
Absolutely. We collaborate with existing teams to provide wellness guidance, product vetting, and environmental assessments. We can act as a consultant or “wellness design broker,” supporting your vision while ensuring healthy building practices are followed.

Curated Wellness Design

What kinds of materials and products do you source for healthy home design?
We source vetted, low-toxicity and sustainable products including AFM Safecoat® paints, zero-VOC sealants, FSC-certified wood, natural fiber rugs, organic bedding, EMF-safe lighting, and more.

Do you work on both renovations and new builds?
Yes. Whether you're remodeling a single room or building from the ground up, we offer guidance on healthy design strategies, product sourcing, and contractor collaboration.

What design styles do you work with?
We work across a range of design aesthetics—from modern to traditional to eclectic. Our specialty is integrating wellness principles seamlessly into any style you love.

What is biophilic design and how is it used in my home or project?
Biophilic design connects people with nature by incorporating natural elements like light, greenery, textures, and views into indoor spaces. This can support healing, lower stress, and improve mood—especially important for clients with chronic illness or trauma.

Can you help me choose/source non-toxic paint, furniture, lighting, and flooring?
Yes! We guide clients in selecting healthier materials for everything from paint and flooring to furniture and fixtures, using our trusted vendor network and product screening process.

Environmental Property Testing

What is environmental property testing?
It’s a comprehensive evaluation of your indoor environment using lab-backed tests to detect pollutants and toxins such as mold, VOCs, EMFs, and water contaminants.

What types of tests do you offer?
We offer:

  • Mold Testing (Air and Surface)

  • VOC Testing

  • Air Quality Testing

  • Water Quality Testing

  • EMF Testing

  • Radon Testing

  • Wildfire Smoke Testing

  • Soil Contaminant Testing

Why should I test my home?
Many environmental hazards are invisible but can impact health, especially in people with sensitivities or chronic illness. Testing gives you data to make informed decisions and protect your family’s health.

How do I know if my property needs testing?
Common signs include unexplained health symptoms (headaches, fatigue, respiratory issues), musty odors, recent flooding or water damage, or simply buying/selling a home. We also offer a Environmental Wellness Quiz to identify potential risks.

Are all kinds of mold dangerous?
Not all mold is harmful, but certain species can produce mycotoxins or exacerbate symptoms in sensitive individuals. Proper testing helps determine the type and level of mold present.

What is the difference between this service and DIY kits from the hardware store?
Our tests use professional-grade kits with lab analysis and interpretation—far more accurate and actionable than generic store kits. We also provide context and recommendations based on your results.

How is this different from hiring a local inspector?
We specialize in health-first environmental testing and interpretation—our focus is not just on building code compliance, but how environmental factors affect your well-being. We are trained in building biology, integrative health and mold remediation and inspection.


Before Your Appointment: Onsite Environmental Testing FAQ

How should I prepare for my onsite environmental testing appointment?
To ensure accurate results, please avoid cleaning, dusting, or vacuuming the testing area for at least 24 hours beforehand. This allows us to detect what’s truly present in the environment.

Should I open windows or ventilate the house before testing?
For air quality and VOC testing, keep windows closed for at least 24 hours prior to the appointment. This gives us a more accurate reading of your home’s indoor air conditions.

Can I use scented products before the appointment?
Please avoid using air fresheners, essential oils, candles, incense, or heavily scented cleaning products for 24 hours before testing. These can interfere with air sample accuracy.

What if I have pets?
We love animals—but for safety and testing accuracy, we ask that pets be kept in a separate area or outdoors during your appointment.

Are there special instructions for mold or VOC testing?
Yes. In addition to avoiding cleaning and ventilating, please inform us of any recent leaks, visible mold, or water damage, and hold off on scheduling testing immediately after painting or remodeling.

What should I do before water testing?
If your service includes water testing, we may ask you to avoid using taps for at least 6 hours before your appointment. You’ll receive specific instructions if this applies to your test type.

What should I do before EMF testing?
Please keep your Wi-Fi router and normal electronic devices running during testing so we can assess realistic EMF exposure levels. Also, ensure we can access your electrical panel if needed. Also make a list of all devices and have ready to share when we arrive.


Building Wellness Risk Assessment

What is a Building Wellness Risk Assessment?
This is a full-spectrum review of your home’s health risks, including environmental exposures, materials, ventilation, and layout. It includes a virtual walkthrough and personalized report.

What does the Building Wellness Report include?
It includes a risk overview, environmental observations, red flags, test and product suggestions, air and water quality insights, and step-by-step recommendations for healthier upgrades.

Is the assessment done virtually or in person?
Most assessments are done virtually via video walkthroughs and client-provided documentation. Onsite testing is also available for clients in Portland and nearby areas.

What are some common health risks you look for in a home?
We assess for mold risk, off-gassing materials, poor ventilation, EMFs, air and water contaminants, high-humidity zones, and materials known to aggravate sensitivities.

How do I use the report if I’m planning to buy or sell a home?
Use it to negotiate repairs, avoid costly surprises, market wellness upgrades, or validate the home’s environmental integrity before you buy.

For Builders, Developers & Real Estate Professionals

What is a wellness design broker?
We act as a bridge between clients, contractors, and vendors—translating wellness goals into actionable design plans and vetted product selections. We bring trusted brands and products to builders and developers to help integrate into their projects with our support and guidance.

How do your reports help me or my client?
They provide credibility, transparency, and health-based insights that can differentiate your property in a wellness-conscious market and improve outcomes for sensitive clients.

How can I work with you?
We offer one-on-one consulting, property assessments, pre-listing wellness audits, and material guidance tailored to your project goals.

Logistics and Next Steps

How do I work with DesignWell Studios?
Start with a free 15-minute discovery call. We’ll listen to your goals, recommend services, and create a custom scope that fits your needs.

How much do your services cost?
Pricing varies based on the service scope, location, and project phase. We provide clear, upfront estimates and offer service packages for every budget.

How do I book a consultation or testing service?
You can book directly through our website for assessments and testing, or contact us by email or phone (503.386.2003) to get started.

What is your cancellation policy for consultations, assessments, and testing services?
We require at least 72 hours’ notice for any cancellations or rescheduling of consultations, wellness assessments, or environmental testing services.
Deposits are non-refundable if you cancel with less than 72 hours' notice or fail to reschedule within a reasonable timeframe. This allows us to reserve dedicated time for each client and prepare accordingly.

Do you offer ongoing support or maintenance plans?
Yes, we offer follow-up support, re-testing options, and design check-ins to help you stay on track long-term.

What if I don’t understand something, or I have a question?  
Feel free to contact us by phone at 503-386-2003 or by email at info@designwellstudios.com with any questions or further clarifications.