AKIVA PROJECTS TERMS AND CONDITIONS 2025
Company: Akiva Projects Ltd (UK Registered). Independent German branch: Friedrichstraße 114A, Berlin, Germany 10117.
Trading names: “Akiva Projects”, “Akiva Interior Design”, “Studio Akiva”.
Last updated: 25 September 2025
1) Definitions
Company/We/Us: Akiva Projects Ltd and its independent German branch.
Client/You: Any individual or entity engaging the Company’s services in Germany or elsewhere in Europe.
Services: Interior design consultancy by the hour, styling packages, interior design packages, measured surveys, 3D rendering, lighting distribution plans, procurement/sourcing, post‑design support, and related services expressly agreed in writing.
Site Visit: A physical inspection/consultation at a location specified by the Client.
Deliverables: Any documents, drawings, mood boards, schedules, purchase lists or other items expressly identified in the agreed scope.
Project: The work described in our order form/quotation/proposal and accepted by the Client in writing.
2) Scope of Services (Overview)
We provide the following (each subject to its own section below):
Consultancy by the hour
Styling packages
Interior design packages (Basic, Premium, Deluxe)
Measured surveys (time on site to take measurements)
3D rendering (add‑on)
Lighting distribution plans (included only in Deluxe; add‑on otherwise)
Procurement & sourcing of furniture/fixtures/accessories
Post‑design support (design translation/assistance; not project management)
Items not included unless expressly purchased: custom/bespoke furniture design (separate service), 3D renderings, socket & switch distribution plans, kitchen design (brand‑specific; support available under consultancy by the hour), technical drawings outside the stated scope, project management, electrical/structural engineering, contractor selection/management.
3) Booking, Fees & Payments
3.1 Upfront payments. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, design fees are payable in advance before work is scheduled.
3.2 Optional split when a Site Visit precedes design. Where a Site Visit occurs before design work, we may (at our discretion) split payments so that the Site Visit fee is paid upfront and design fees become due after the Site Visit. This option is not automatic and must be agreed in writing.
3.3 Phased payments for larger projects. For multi‑room or multi‑phase projects (e.g., a five‑bedroom home), we can agree phased deliverables and phased fee payments (e.g., Phase 1: ground floor; Phase 2: first floor). If you have a tight deadline, we advise against phased/split payments to avoid scheduling interruptions and secure continuous designer commitment.
3.4 Invoices & timing. Unless stated otherwise: payment is due within 48 hours of invoice. Work may pause until payment clears. Procurement invoices are governed by §13–§19 below.
4) Site Visits
4.1 Fees & payment. A Site Visit fee (as quoted) must be paid before the scheduled visit. Fees are for attendance and professional time/advice on site.
4.2 Cancellation/rescheduling. You may cancel or reschedule with at least 48 hours’ written notice for a full refund or free reschedule. Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice are non‑refundable.
4.3 No access / lateness. If our designer arrives and there is no access, we will wait up to 15 minutes. After that, it is treated as a no‑show/cancellation and is non‑refundable. A new Site Visit would need to be booked and paid.
4.4 Scope on site. Any additional services requested during the visit and not covered by the initial booking may be chargeable.
4.5 Liability on site. You are responsible for site safety/security for occupants/visitors. We hold public liability insurance. Any damage caused by us during the visit will be addressed in accordance with that policy.
5) Measured Surveys (Time on Site)
5.1 Purpose. A measured survey is the time spent on site by our designer to take measurements for our internal design process. The fee covers attendance and measuring only. It does not include drafting detailed survey drawings/diagrams as a standalone deliverable.
5.2 Release of measurements. Measurements taken are for our internal use. If you proceed with an Akiva interior design package, we may reuse those measurements for your design. If you choose not to proceed with our design services or appoint another party, we are not obliged to provide survey drawings or formatted measurement packs.
5.3 Access & preparation. Each room/space must be accessible and reasonably clear of obstructions so accurate measurements can be taken. If spaces are inaccessible/obstructed, we may charge a resurvey fee.
5.4 Accuracy & limitations. Reasonable care is taken, but minor variances can occur. Survey outputs are for design purposes only and are not legal surveys or construction drawings.
5.5 Payment & cancellation. Survey fees are due in advance. You may cancel/reschedule with 48 hours’ notice; otherwise fees may be forfeited.
6) Homeowner‑Provided Measurements (Remote Work)
6.1 You may provide your own measurements. You remain fully responsible for their accuracy/completeness, including positions of fixed obstacles, services, sockets, switches, pipework, etc.
6.2 We may flag potential inaccuracies; you agree to re‑measure if requested. We are not liable for costs or delays resulting from incorrect client‑provided measurements.
7) Interior Design Packages (Basic, Premium, Deluxe)
7.1 Typical deliverables (unless your quotation specifies otherwise):
One mood board per room/space.
One set of 2D drawings (layout/floor plan). One (1) revision reflected on the floor plan only is included across all packages. Further revisions are chargeable.
A purchase list (fixtures, furniture & equipment) after 2D layout approval.
7.2 Option counts. To keep decisions focused:
Basic: up to two (2) options per typology (e.g., sofa, dining table, pendant, etc.).
Premium/Deluxe: two (2) to three (3) options per typology.
Additional option rounds may require extra time/fees (agreed in advance).
7.3 Timeline guideline. As a guideline, design for a room up to 20 m² is targeted within three (3) weeks. This allows time for your selections (colours, finishes, furniture, etc.). If the process extends beyond three weeks (e.g., due to extended decision‑making), we will reset the timeline together and discuss any additional time/fees before proceeding.
7.4 Exclusions (unless added as paid extras):
Custom/bespoke furniture design (separate service).
3D design/rendering.
Socket & switch distribution plans.
Lighting distribution technical plans (included only in Deluxe; add‑on for Basic/Premium).
Kitchen design (brand‑specific): not included in any package (see §9.3 for consultancy support).
7.5 Approvals & dependencies. Purchase lists and procurement work start after 2D layout approval and any agreed revisions are complete.
8) Consultancy by the Hour
8.1 Scope. Advisory service: discussions, advice, mood boards/concepts as relevant. No technical/architectural drawings unless separately agreed.
8.2 Cancellations. If you cancel ≥48 hours before the booked session, fees are fully refundable. Cancellations <48 hours are non‑refundable because the consultant’s time has been allocated to you.
8.3 Refunds. Once a consultancy session is completed, fees are non‑refundable.
9) Additional/Related Services
9.1 3D Rendering. Available as an add‑on at fixed prices depending on scope/level of detail.
9.2 Lighting Design. We produce lighting layouts/visuals as specified. We do not perform electrical design/engineering/installation.
9.3 Kitchen Support (consultancy). Kitchen design is brand‑specific and excluded from packages. Under consultancy we can: advise on functional layout (e.g., appliance/sink positions), colour/finish selections, accessories (e.g., worktop materials), arrange samples (may incur an extra fee), and liaise with your chosen kitchen company to help finalise their design.
9.4 Furniture Design. Bespoke items can be commissioned via our separate furniture design service; installation is the client’s responsibility.
9.5 Design Coordination. Hourly design coordination with contractors/installation teams (excludes research/supplier visits unless agreed).
10) Timelines, Client Responsiveness & No‑Activity Policy
10.1 Client responsiveness. Our timelines assume timely client responses. If the Client is unresponsive or unavailable, the agreed timeline is automatically void and will be re‑scheduled subject to designer availability when the Client re‑engages.
10.2 Inactivity threshold. If we receive no response from you for 7 consecutive days, we will issue a written warning. If there is no response within a further 7 days, we may archive the Project. Archived Projects can be re‑opened subject to designer availability and may require a restart fee and revised timeline.
10.3 Third‑party delays. We are not responsible for delays caused by contractors, suppliers, shipping, customs, or authorities. Any delay from third parties will shift the schedule; we will propose an updated plan when information is available.
11) Compliance, Permissions & Regulatory Matters
11.1 We are interior designers, not architects/engineers. You must obtain all necessary approvals, permits, consents and compliance confirmations (e.g., planning permission, building control or Baurecht approvals, landlord approvals, freeholder permissions) before construction or installation.
11.2 No liability for rejections/non‑compliance. We are not liable if authorities, landlords, or other regulators reject applications or later require changes. If compulsory modifications are required, we must be given the opportunity to revise design drawings to comply; failure to do so releases us from related liability.
12) Contractor & Supplier Recommendations
12.1 Recommendations are courtesy only. We may recommend contractors/suppliers based on prior feedback. These are not endorsements or guarantees. You should obtain multiple quotes and perform your own due diligence.
12.2 No liability for third parties. We are not responsible for third‑party quotations, pricing/value, workmanship/quality, schedules/timelines, or outcomes.
12.3 Window treatments. For blinds/curtains/etc., we strongly advise engaging a specialist to take their own measurements on site before fabrication. We are not responsible for fabrication, cost, or delivery timelines.
13) Procurement & Sourcing (Furniture/Fixtures/Accessories)
13.1 Role as agent. When procuring goods/services, we act as your agent. Orders are placed with suppliers in your interests upon your confirmation and payment.
13.2 Proposals & client checks. Our procurement proposal lists items you have requested/approved. You must check and confirm all details (product, size, finish/variant, quantity) before we place orders.
13.3 Pricing & discounts. Proposal prices reflect supplier pricing at the time of proposal. If suppliers change prices or run promotions thereafter, prices may differ. Any discounts we pass on are calculated from RRP. Clients are responsible for monitoring retailers’ own discount codes/promotions (e.g., Black Friday) unless otherwise agreed in writing.
13.4 Shipping & logistics. Unless stated, shipping/handling is added after you approve the proposal in principle, when final weights/volumes/addresses are confirmed.
13.5 Customs/duties. International shipments may attract customs/VAT/duty. These charges are determined when goods reach customs and are payable by the Client prior to release for delivery. We will notify you when informed by carrier/supplier.
13.6 Title & risk; insurance. Risk during manufacture/shipment lies with the supplier/carrier per their terms. Title may remain with the supplier until full payment. You should maintain adequate insurance for goods in transit/storage.
13.7 Warranties & defects. Supplier/manufacturer terms apply. We will pass through applicable warranty information and assist, as your agent, in raising issues. You must notify defects promptly per supplier terms.
13.8 Fees, payment & late payment. Procurement invoices are due as stated on invoice (often within 2 days, and immediately where goods are on promotion). Orders are placed during business hours after cleared payment. Late payments may incur 2% per month interest and/or suspension of services.
13.9 Bespoke/non‑returnable. Bespoke or made‑to‑order items are generally non‑cancellable/non‑returnable once ordered.
14) Intellectual Property & Photography
14.1 IP. You warrant that materials you supply do not infringe third‑party rights. We warrant our created works are original. Unless otherwise agreed, you receive a licence to use our Deliverables for your Project/property; we retain underlying IP.
14.2 Photography (opt‑out available). By engaging our services, you grant us the right to photograph your space before, during and after the design process for our portfolio, website and social media. We will not publish personal data or identifying information without consent. If you prefer we do not use photographs of your home, please opt out in writing and we will respect your request.
15) Liability & Limitations
15.1 Indirect/consequential loss. We are not liable for indirect or consequential losses, including loss of profit, loss of business, or loss of rental income arising from delays or other causes.
15.2 Third‑party delays. We are not liable for delays or failures caused by contractors, suppliers, transport, customs, or authorities.
15.3 Measurement reliance. Where you provide measurements, you accept full responsibility for accuracy; we are not liable for resulting costs/delays.
15.4 Monetary cap. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, our aggregate liability in connection with a Service is limited to the fees paid by you for that specific Service. Mandatory consumer protections under local law remain unaffected.
15.5 Nothing limits liability for death/personal injury caused by negligence, fraud, or any liability that cannot be excluded by law.
16) Communication
16.1 We are reachable Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00 (local time of the servicing studio), excluding public/bank holidays. We aim to respond promptly within working hours.
16.2 A single, mutually agreed communication channel should be used for project correspondence to keep records clear. We are happy to send messages to clients on other devices and platforms at the clients request but are not responsible for any discussions outside of our main communication channel.
17) Affiliates & Introductions
We may introduce partners/affiliates for services outside interior design. We are not responsible for their workmanship, pricing, schedules, or outcomes.
18) Alterations & Variations
Client alteration requests must be in writing. Any price increase will follow our standard labour/material rates. Requests for corrections that arise from scope creep or client‑initiated changes may be treated as alterations.
19) Governing Law & Jurisdiction (Germany)
These terms are governed by German law, with exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Germany. Mandatory consumer protections under EU/German law remain unaffected.
20) Changes to These Terms
We may modify these terms to reflect legal or operational changes. The version in force at the time of your order/booking applies. Material changes will be notified in writing or by publication on our website.
21) Acceptance
By paying an invoice, signing a quotation, booking a Site Visit, or otherwise instructing us to proceed, you confirm you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions.
22) Working Hours, Meeting Times & Special Arrangements
22.1 Standard hours. Our normal working hours are Monday to Friday, 09:00–17:00. We recognise clients may have work or family commitments and will try to accommodate reasonable requests.
22.2 Online meeting availability. Online meetings are ordinarily scheduled no earlier than 08:00 and no later than 18:00. Meetings outside these hours are exceptional and must be agreed in advance; such arrangements are rare.
22.3 Site visit availability. On‑site visits are ordinarily scheduled to start no earlier than 08:00 and to conclude by 18:00–19:00 at the latest. Visits outside these hours are exceptional and must be agreed in advance.
22.4 Cancellations for exceptional hours. Where a Client requests an appointment outside our standard working hours, the Client acknowledges that we may need to cancel or reschedule at short notice due to sudden changes in our designers’ personal/family commitments. In these cases, our usual cancellation terms (e.g., minimum notice) may not apply, and we will notify the Client as soon as practicable. Any fees already paid for the specific out‑of‑hours booking will be refunded or credited if we cancel and an alternative time cannot be agreed.
22.5 Client acknowledgment. Services outside standard hours are a special accommodation and are not part of our normal practice. Flexibility is required on both sides, and availability is not guaranteed.
