What You Can Expect When Working with an Interior Designer
Our Step-by-Step Interior Design Process
Our Design Process
If you've never worked with an interior designer or design-build firm before, but definitely have home-related projects you don't want to tackle yourself, you might be wondering what it would be like to hire a full-service firm.
Wonder no more! Today we're giving you the exact process we take our new clients through to ensure a great end result and a reveal day that makes you jump for joy. While each project we take on is different, we adhere to the same design process each time to ensure quality and instill trust in our clients. We love you guys and we are honored that you'd invest in your home with us.
Here is what you can expect...
PLANNING
We always start with an initial phone call. This short call isn't a consultation, but more of an interview. We'll be asking about your project, your goals, the budget, and any deadlines you might be facing. We'll also answer your questions regarding how our firm works and what you can expect (but you'll already be well-educated on that process after reading this).
Next, we'll arrange for a site visit. If the project is a remodel, we'll take the necessary photos and measurements. If the project is a new build, we'll assess the property and landscape accordingly. At this time, we'll also have you sign the official design agreement, fully outlining the scope of work, and pay any required deposits.
2. DESIGNING
Now the "real" fun can begin! (Who are we kidding? It's all fun.) We'll create a design plan based on your needs and preferences. This plan will include elevations, schematics, product lists, physical samples, floor plans, and more.
When we present this plan to you, we'll work with you to refine it until it meets your requirements for both aesthetics and budget. We'll also provide guidance on how to best allocate your budget to certain areas of your project. Some parts are not worth skimping, whereas other areas can be more financially flexible, if necessary.
3. INSTALLING
Once your design plan is finalized, we'll work with your general contractor and subcontractors to bring your project to life. This involves ordering, scheduling, coordinating deliveries, and addressing backorders and change orders.
In a perfect world, your project would run without a single flaw, but... The world isn't perfect, and there will be hurdles to navigate. Our promise to you is that we'll never present a problem without also offering a solution. We are advocating for you and for the success of your project, from that first call to the final installation of your last window treatment or custom cabinet.
DESIGN TIP
Don’t decide based on trends.
Trends don't last forever, as we've seen with all-white kitchens and shiplap-covered walls. We encourage our clients to make decisions based on what they truly like to see and how they want to live. That might include a trend or it might not.
DESIGN TREND
Shiplap has shipped out.
Across social media, the verdict from our fellow designers and their clients is in: Shiplap has faded from popularity. Reclaimed wood, nickel gap boards, and board & batten are luxury-level alternatives with long-lasting appeal.
