If you’re sick of seeing the same white room over and over again…
If you believe everything old is new again…
If you want a comfortable, colourful,
and timeless home…
you’re in the right place.
If you’re sick of seeing the same white room over and over again…
If you believe everything old is new again…
If you want a comfortable, colourful,
and timeless home…
you’re in the right place.
our design style is your style.
Many interior decorators and designers work only within their own style. It’s apparent in their work and on their website. However, you won’t find that here because we believe that your home should be a reflection of who you are.
In a word, our style is comfortable. That’s where our name comfortable dwelling comes from. It’s high quality comfort without feeling pretentious. Your friends will know your space is well put together and impressive, but the finished room never feels stuffy or like you can’t actually use it.
We don’t want you to have to think about redecorating every 5-7 years when your grey modern farmhouse, “warm modern” or “modern midcentury” design becomes dated. We seek to create something that showcases your personality. That tells the world who you are. And that suits the style and period of your home. That’s a recipe for timeless design.
Now let’s be clear around what we do. People think that a designer’s sole job is to make things pretty. That’s only 20% of what we do at Comfortable Dwelling.
Of course we create beautiful spaces. But we don’t consider ourselves decorators or designers. Instead, we act as interior
consultants for our clients in that 80% of our job is in consideration of your experience, your investment, and how you’ll live in the space.
There are hundreds (sometimes thousands) of decisions that a homeowner makes when renovating or building a home. Our clients choose us because our processes give them confidence that every one of these decisions are handled down to the very last detail.
You can log into our project management system at any time and know exactly what’s been done on your project and what’s outstanding. Even if you’re up thinking about it at 2am because that’s the only time you have. Our process is very transparent so that you can rest assured that we are handling every detail from reviewing the initial plans and doing renderings to fluffing the very last toss pillow.
We understand that not everyone is going to need full design to completion which is why we’ve designed our flat-fee design services to help whether you just need some quick design advice or you’re doing a full-scale new build or renovation.
No matter what level of design service you need — either locally in Chatham-Kent Windsor-Essex or from a distance across Canada — it all begins with our Discovery Process…
Our Process + Services
“Wow. We’ve worked with a lot of designers in the area and no one has provided the level of detail and accuracy Comfortable Dwelling has. It makes our job a lot easier“
This is what numerous Contractors have had to say when we bring them in on jobs. Our process means you get more competitive bids and more accurate work from Trades on your project.
Learn more about our process and services:
How Much Does It Cost?
Furnishing + Decor:
Our unique 1-Room-1-Price offering means that you’ll get everything for your room – the furniture, rug, decor, draperies, artwork, paint and lighting – all for one flat fee which includes a professional design plan and done-for-you styling.
Kitchens, baths, renovations and builds:
Our fees are always flat fee so there are never any surprises.
Learn more about budgeting for your project:
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common decorating mistakes that fill homeowners with regret…
This short book contains common misconceptions that interior designers and home decor stores don’t want you to figure out…
It was written by our Creative Director and founder Heather Prestanski so it’s a great way to get to know us! You’ll be surprised at what’s inside.
Grab your free copy:
Join The Community
We share the ins-and-outs of our projects, design decisions, daily life and even a look at our own home renovation on our Style Blog, Facebook and Instagram.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at our process and projects by enjoying a video or reading a post.
Our enjoy our Saturday Saves where we share what’s inspiring us this week.
Join our community:
Our Latest Project
Our latest project is as unique as YOU are! After all, you don’t need an Interior Designer or Decorator to create a room that looks like everyone else’s.
Read about the decisions, creative ideas, and process that we used in our latest design project >>
Creepy Basement Turned Modern Family Hangout
Do you want to see how we transformed a creepy, old basement that was made of concrete block into a super stunning basement with a laundry room, a playroom, a games and hangout space, and a living area? As we recorded this, the project is under construction, and the...
THE IMPRESSIVE
INTERIORS PROCESS:
HOW WE MAKE CLIENTS FEEL RIGHT AT HOME.
THE IMPRESSIVE INTERIORS PROCESS:
HOW WE MAKE CLIENTS FEEL RIGHT AT HOME.
Every room was exactly what we wanted - Heather's design could not have been more perfect!!! They took care of the entire process - even down to the finishing touches!
When we walked through the door for the reveal it was amazing!! To see Heather's design come to life and the custom furniture pieces she chose was perfect. It immediately felt like home.
Step 1: The Discovery
Every project begins with discovery -- whether we're designing your entire home to completion or just helping you pick paint colours. The first step is to book a Discovery Phone Call with us. Upon doing so, you'll be asked to complete our 6-minute Getting Started Questionnaire in preparation for our call.
On our Discovery Phone Call, Heather will ask you a number of questions to help determine your needs, then she will walk you through our design process and packages to determine which (if any) is the right fit for you.
Once you're comfortable to move forward and we're confident we are the best fit for your project, we'll conduct a Style + Ideas session at your home.
This is an important step because it allows us to really get a handle on your unique style even if you have no idea what your style is!
Often clients who thought they knew their style come out of our detailed discovery process saying "Wow! This is so much more me than what I had initially pinned!"
Step 2: The Concept
The Concept Phase is where we begin planning the colours, textures, and layout. In this phase, we begin with an accurately scaled model of your home and begin to plan where furniture, cabinetry, and the other main elements work best to maximize function, space, and the special character of your home -- like an amazing backyard or architectural features.
In this phase, you'll see colour boards, mood boards, to-scale layout sketches, and initial furniture selections.
We put it all together in a beautiful video presentation then send it to you for feedback to ensure that we're on the right track.
We will also begin to prepare the initial budget estimates and gather quotes from trades and/or contractors so that we know that everything that's presented in the next phase fits within your decided upon budget.
Step 3: The Design Binder
Now that the concept has been approved by you, the heavy lifting begins in pulling together your Comfortable Dwelling Digital Design Binder.
This is our "secret sauce" and the reason clients and contractors rave about working with us.
The Digital Design Binder includes all of the details necessary to pull off a flawless space.
It includes:
- Renderings or 3D drawings of what the room will look like so that both you AND your trade team can see exactly how things should turn out
- Accurate elevation sketches with every tiny detail measured out -- like exactly where the cuts will be with your tile, or how far apart photo frames should be hung on the wall
- A finish schedule that includes photos, specs, quantities, and where to buy every light fixture, plumbing fixture, finish, paint colour, and so much more so that your contractor can get competitive bids on materials
- Your furniture package with descriptions, photos, and sizing so that you can be confident every piece is picture perfect.
Step 4: Locking It In
Upon approval of the Design, you'll have the chance to review and sign off on every single item for final approval before any purchases or construction elements begin. This ensures the plan is locked and loaded so that we can proceed with efficiency.
Clients LOVE this because we aren't going to tow you around to a whole bunch of shops and showrooms. We have everything prepared for you so that you can finalize your room and know that every last detail is being handled allowing you to move on with your busy life whilst knowing your project is in good hands.
Step 5: Procurement + Project Management
80% of what we do is not fun design work... it's the details and project management that really serve our clients and allow us to create truly special homes.
This is usually a time that we are working behind-the-scenes and requires very little input from you. Often clients feel a bit antsy during this phase because it’s a waiting period until the pieces begin to arrive.
It’s important to know that you’ve made the right decisions and that we will be with you every step of the way during the procurement phase.
There are hundreds (or sometimes thousands) of items that need to be ordered throughout the home building and designing process.
Each and every item is inspected upon arrival and, because things happen during transport, we work with shippers and vendors to ensure that your pieces are just as beautiful as they were meant to be.
Should you want to move into our Project Management upgrades, we will also be working to schedule and manage trades working hand-in-hand with your builder or contractor. We'll conduct site visits to problem-solve plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, and tile challenges as they arise. And when something goes awry (which it will with any renovation or build), we'll be your advocate to ensure the right trade is held accountable.
Step 6: The Styling Meeting
Styling is where we add art, decor, pillows and accessories to make a room come to life.
It's been said that Design is in the Details and it's truly amazing how styling can completely change the look and feel of a room more than anything else!
About 4 weeks prior to our final installation date, we will do a Styling meeting with you.
This is another discovery where we will review many images to determine how you'd like your final space styled. Some people love lots of toss pillows. Others love family photos sprinkled throughout the space. Whatever your style, our process is designed to nail it down so your final reveal feels oh so you!
Same finishes and large furnishings. Proof that styling makes the room!
Step 7: The Install + Reveal
During our installation day(s) we will bring along our stylist, handyman, and design assistants to help move in and place furnishings, hang artwork and style your home.
When we're ready for you to come home, we will give you an HGTV-style reveal walking you through your space and pointing out all of the little details that we've vigorously thought through all along the way.
Meet Our Interior Decorating + Design Team
Teamwork makes the dream work! Here at Comfortable Dwelling, we pride ourselves on forming strong partnerships with our trades, craftsman partners, marketing specialists, real estate brokers, and our furniture + decor suppliers.
Here is an introduction to our key team members. Many are left off this public list and are available to clients only through our vetted partner list.
Heather Prestanski
Founder, Creative Director
Heather’s passion and talent for design is matched only by her education and experience. She has her Interior Design degree, Interior Decorating Diploma, and over 1,000+ study hours in many design disciplines like Design-Build, Process Management, and Design Harmony.
Our clients are family. Our team is family. Our partners are family. I think that’s the reason we are able to provide such detailed homes for our clients that are perfectly scaled and timelessly styled.
-Heather Prestanski
Our clients are family. Our team is family. Our partners are family. I think that’s the reason we are able to provide such detailed homes for our clients that are perfectly scaled and timelessly styled.
-Heather Prestanski
Kyle Prestanski
Project Manager, Procurement Lead
Our Project Manager Kyle is the “behind the scenes” person that works with our clients to ensure every aspect of every project is managed effectively and completed on time. He brings many years of analytical, technical, and operational experience to our team. While Heather is the creative force behind our designs, Kyle is ALL about the details – from overseeing trades, scheduling appointments, and working directly with our trade partners & suppliers. You’ll typically be working with him during the ordering, shipping, delivery, and installation phase of your project. Kyle also does much of our community outreach, and you can find him networking at events throughout Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent!
If I could spend all day in the details, I would.
-Kyle Prestanski
Our Full List Of Team Members including Trade Partners, Contractors, Craftsmen, and Assistants is made available to our clients only.
Get Started With Your Renovation,
Redecorating, or New Build Project
The First Step Is To Book A Discovery Phone Call
Whether you’re looking for help with your 10,000 square foot home, a modest-sized bedroom, or you just need help picking a paint colour, we always begin with a Discovery Phone Call.
On this 30-minute call, we will learn more about your project, your style, your timeline and your budget. We will also walk you through our process and, based on your needs and budget, what service we believe is the best fit.
Then, if it feels good for both of us, we will walk you through the next steps.
It’s that simple!
Book your Discovery Phone Call now
check us out on instagram.
Design Resources
Budget Guide
We’ve taken the most common rooms in a home and totalled budgets by line item in 3 different categories: high quality, good quality, and low quality.
Inside you’ll see a breakdown of everything you may need or want in your room and what to expect it to cost so that you can set a budget and stick to it!
Comfortable Dwelling Book
Avoid these common decorating mistakes that fill homeowners with regret…
This short book contains common misconceptions that interior designers and home decor stores don’t want you to figure out…
Style Blog
We share detailed articles dedicated to design process, inspiration, before + afters, cautionary tales, and more!
Our readers love our casual approach to our writing and how much detailed attention we pour into every post. It’s the perfect place to begin when looking for answers and inspiration for your next project!
Contact Us.
Our mailing address is:
Comfortable Dwelling
Box 27
Tilbury, ON
N0P 2L0
Phone: (226)996-8818
Email: hello@comfortabledwelling.com
Service Areas:
We are available for projects anywhere in Canada.
Our studio is located in Tilbury, Ontario which is on the border of Windsor and Chatham.
Our DIY and Virtual Consultation services are available for interiors anywhere in the world!
Visit the studio.
Our brand new interior design studio is now open by appointment only.
Book an appointment to shop furnishings, rugs, accessories, wallpaper, or custom draperies.
32 Queen St N.
Tilbury, ON
N0P 2L0
Hours of Operation:
Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10am – 5pm
Wednesday: 10am – 5pm
Thursday: 11am – 7pm
Friday: 10am – 5pm
Saturday: 10am – 3pm