Today, I’m going to demystify the interior design/renovation process. How does this whole thing work? After you have found an interior designer – typically through word of mouth or on the Internet – and have agreed to meet, this is generally what you can expect:
The Initial Consultation: This first meeting is the best opportunity to assess the client-designer connection. You should feel that your designer understands what you are looking for and can articulate what you want but can’t necessarily express yourself. Normally this lasts one to two hours in your home to determine your individual style, functional needs, the physical space and budget. The final design must take into account all of these factors equally.
The Contract: This reflects the size and scope of your project, outlines the designer’s invoicing methods and proposes a timeline or schedule.
Concept Design (planning, concept, sourcing): This is where your designer reviews any existing architectural plans and provides any 3D floor plans so that you can clearly visualize the proposal. Once you select your choices from a concept/mood board, your designer will source the actual furnishings, fabrics, fixtures, materials, finishes, accents and accessories that will be used in the final design for your approval. Your designer will also ensure that everything is ordered and delivered in time.
Construction: Your designer will remain in close contact with your contractor so that he is aware of the finished design and can coordinate the necessary building materials and employees. Part of the designer’s job is also to be on-site on a regular basis to ensure that all is going according to plan. This way, they are available to answer any questions when things don’t – and I can assure you, there will be bumps in the road! Renovations are like opening up a body for surgery: until those walls and ceilings come down, we’re never quite sure what’s waiting for us.
Set-up: This is what I call the “dessert” phase of the project. It’s my absolute favourite part – when I get to pull it all together and put the finishing touches on site and watch the magic unfold. After 15 years, it never ceases to elicit a natural (creative) high.
The Reveal: This is where you swoon!
