The Design Process

I’ll start by saying that I love systems and processes. I once took the Kolbe Assessment, which measure’s a person’s innate problem-solving skills and my highest score was in “Follow Thru” (aka how you arrange and design systems or structure…organized and adaptable). I love a spreadsheet, a chart, or a graph (as long as it’s well designed and thought through, ha). This is why, for me as a designer, it is imperative to have a clear understanding of the design process and an order to the operation. This is how it goes…

The Interior Design Process

Step 1: Programming

  • Project assessment and introductions

  • Site visit and information gathering (wants, needs, likes, and dislikes)

  • Client questionnaire and fee schedule

  • Letter of agreement

Step 2: Schematic Design

  • Concept board

  • Space planning

  • Furniture planning

  • Initial surface and material sourcing

  • On-site design review

Step 3: Design Development

  • Refine to final space and furniture plans

  • Refine to final surface and material selections

  • Additional on-site design reviews as-needed

  • Initial pricing, quotes, and payments

  • Contract documents are prepared including product specifications, purchase orders and workroom orders

  • Final construction documents including dimensions and all required details

Step 4: Implementation

  • Communication with contractors, vendors, and the client

  • Quality control

  • Troubleshooting (backorders, damaged goods, special delivery, etc.)

  • Install and accessorizing

Step 5: Final Review

  • Final walkthrough

  • Note and relay any missing final details to the contractor, vendors, and appropriate team members

  • High five! You’re in!!

When you’re considering a home renovation project or a simple room refresh, it can pretty quickly become a daunting experience. But, with a creative partner by your side and processes that will help keep your project on track, there is no reason your project should be anything but a dream!

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What Nature Teaches Me About Designing Beautiful, Functional Homes

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Podcast Ep. “A Student’s Perspective”