Here's what you can expect if you hire us to completely design your space from start to finish

Please understand that this is a general design process.  We understand that everyone's budgets and needs are slightly different.  No two projects are alike.  You may choose to hire us to do only parts and pieces of this design process for you based on your budget and needs.  But hopefully this helps you get an idea of what a professional designer can do for you!

1. The Initial Consultation/Meet-and-Greet Phase

During our first meeting we like to spend a small amount of time getting to know you and a little bit about your family.  Then we will dive in to discuss the scope of your project, your goals and your budget. We hope to collect the following information on your project: we will discuss your vision for the space, the style and look you would like to achieve, how each space is used, who is using the space, any specific needs you might have like storage etc., and any other information that would be helpful to us in understanding your exciting project! If you have a set architectural plans for your space, that is very helpful to us as we get started. All decision-makers need to be at this meeting and you can expect it to last 1-2 hours.  If you have any inspirational photos, Houzz ideabooks or Pinterest boards, these are very helpful to us as they allow us to "get inside your head."  Feel free to send these ahead of time or go through them with us at this first meeting.

​2. Site Measure Phase

We will set up a time to come out to your space after the letter of agreement, contract and deposit are received. We will take detailed measurements and photographs of all the spaces included in the scope of your project, to create new or to ensure that existing architectural plans are accurate. This is also a good time to have any trades people who will be working on your project come in and take their own measurements for their own estimating purposes.  You are welcome to take your own measurements and send them to us, but please understand that we will not be responsible for any errors made if you choose to do this yourself.

3. ​Space Planning and Design Concepts Phase

Space planning is a critical step in the design process and important in order to achieve a well-designed and functional space. After all the measurements have been taken we will develop floor plans for each room that you have asked us to design. Floor plans are important visual tools that allow us to determine what pieces will best fit into the space, how traffic patterns will flow through each room, and ensure we meet applicable codes and standards. They also provide communication of design plans to tradespeople involved in the execution of the design.  

Once the floor plan is complete, we will schedule a meeting to review it with you and discuss the pros and cons of each space with the decision maker(s).  It is very helpful to give us plenty of feedback and ask us any questions you might have as we review the design plan with you.

We will also present a general color scheme and overall design plan for the space.  If you decided to have us do 3D renderings of the space, we will show you a 3D computer model of your space with a general color palette and design finishes

4. Further Development of Design Concepts and selection of colors and finishes Phase

After a floor plan and design concepts have been agreed upon, we begin making recommendations and selections for  furnishings, fixtures and materials. We will select specific paint colors for your walls.  We will send you large samples of the colors we suggest for your space and we recommend that you use painter's tape to put them up on your walls.  This will help you get a feel for the colors and to see them as lighting changes throughout the day.  Custom furniture may be designed during this part of the process. Materials for flooring, walls, counters and cabinetry are selected. A lighting plan is developed. Drawings, samples and conceptual images are updated based on selections. We are keeping your needs and budget in mind as we procure quotes and pricing for all the elements we are suggesting for your project.

We will need to have quite a bit of open communication with you and may need to schedule several meetings to discuss these aspects of the design. This is a complex process and often takes several weeks, depending on the scope of your project.

We are happy to accompany you to showrooms if you would like to see physical examples of the things we are selecting for you.  Please understand that some items are special order and you may not be able to see the exact piece you will be getting.  We will do your best to give you the best idea possible of what you will be purchasing for your space.

Your timely approval of the colors, finishes and furnishings we select for your space is appreciated in order to ensure accurate pricing and availability of all design elements. If these items are not approved in a timely manner, there may be additional costs associated with replacing items that are no longer available.  Once you have approved the design and all elements are finalized, execution of the design can get started.

Scheduling, Ordering and Procurement of Design Elements Phase

At this stage in the design, we can recommend contractors, tradespeople and sources for all the elements selected for your design.  We can also help establish a time-schedule for purchasing and ordering, work to be done by trades, and final installation. This schedule may need to be adjusted to accommodate any unforeseen circumstances that may arise as the project progresses. Please prepare yourself for the fact that most projects take several weeks and even months to install and complete.

Items will need to be ordered by you and we can help you coordinate these purchases.  You will be billed by the suppliers, tradespeople, contractors etc. directly.  We do not handle purchasing and payments for anything other than our design services.  Remember, we are here for you and should any questions or issues arise as items are being ordered, please keep us apprised so that we can make sure the design is executed according to plan.  If substitutions need to be made for any reason, we should be notified and involved in the selections of any substitutions.

​Design Implementation Phase

If there is work to be done by tradespeople, you will be in charge of scheduling work with them. We suggest you be on site when the work is being done to make sure the design is executed properly, according to plan and with the highest quality of workmanship. It is outside the scope of our services to hire, direct, or provide payment to any outside contractor needed for your project  As always, should any design questions or decisions come up during this part of the project, please contact us so we can help you keep the design on track.

​Installation of Furnishing, Artwork & Accessories Phase

This is where everything comes together. All construction has been completed. This is when furnishings should be delivered, window treatments installed, merchandise placed and artwork is hung.

​Accessorizing is adding the jewelry to complete the outfit . It adds the finishing touches that unifies your vision and make your space feel complete.  This will also prepare your space for professional photography.

We can shop for small accessories and artwork items needed to finish out the design and we will also place these items throughout your space.  We will provide you with the cost of each item and you will have 1 week to decide what you want to keep. You’ll pay for what’s staying and we’ll return anything you don’t want to keep.

Punch List Phase

​Once the installation of everything is complete, and you've had some time to enjoy the space, we’ would love to walk through the space and review each room with you.  We’ can create a punch list of all the little things that are left outstanding or need attention (such as paint touch-ups or missing outlet covers). We can also help you get each item on the list addressed as quickly as possible. Once all the items on the punch list are completed, the project will officially be complete!

Professional Photography Phase

Once the space is visually ready for photographing, we will schedule a photographer to come in and take photos of the completed space.  With your approval, we would love to show our future clients the work we have done for you.  You can also use these photos for your own enjoyment and to share with friends and family!