What It’s Like Working with Me

in a previous blog we talked about my design process- but I wanna give you the inside look at how the project process looks.

We both know picking all the different finishes and colors can be really fun, but I want you to know the nuts and bolts of it actually is like to work with me beyond just the design process.

Because beyond the design is actually making it happen!

So, let’s talk about the stages we go through together as we progress through a project!

Step 1: After we have met, reviewed the project and have an approved proposal we start the fun stuff! I visit your space to dial in on your needs and the overall direction we’ll head. This is called a Kick-Off Meeting. We talked about this a bit before, but we gotta set the stage here!

Next in step 2, we move into concept. Here we have a presentation with images that have elements within them that I would like to propose for your space. Some are overall look and feel, others have a very fine detail that I’d like to accomplish. This also is accompanied with some preliminary finishes and fabrics for us to review together.

Here’s where we have step 3. If the scale of the project is large enough, or we have some really great details to work in - a model is made in a program called SketchUp. It doesn’t create the most realistic version of your space, but it is an efficient tool that I like to use to communicate my design intent with you and your contractor.

Then, there’s step 4. This is where is really gets fun! You are able to see how your space will transform and we have solidified your hard finish, plumbing and lighting selections. We have your model, your concept, and now we have the finishes picked out and ready to be installed!

Here’s where the process kicks in in step 5. Now starts the “behind-the-scenes” work. We have been working very closely until this point, now I get my project manager hat on! I compile all the selections, images, models and details into documents for you and your contractor. This may include a design development package with specific information about each item selected or a schedule that has images and specifications for each item for your contractor to purchase. I gather quotes for all your plumbing, lighting and speciality finishes (like wallcovering) and make sure all aligns with your budget and design intent. This is a longer step, but very needed for the success of the project!

To transition us fully from design to actually boots on the ground, we have step 6. Here’s where I love to have a meeting at the end of design and beginning of construction, I call it a Pass-Off Meeting. It’s like handing the baton to the contractor - the baton is rolled up plans and schedules! We review page by page and make sure any preliminary questions are answered together.

Then, in step 7, as your contractor starts their portion of the project, there are some hours usually allocated to Construction Administration. Each project, contractor and sub-contractor are different - so my involvement really varies. I’m here to answer questions on details, intent or finishes as the project moves forward! 

When Step 6 ends and Step 7 begins, this is when I like to kick-off furniture selections. For some longer lead-time items we may start sooner, but typically this is a great time to evaluate what new pieces you’ll need and what we’ll be purchasing together!

Along the same lines as before in step 8, we work towards final approval of your furniture and accessories with concepts and presentations. Upon approval and funds deposited, your furniture is ordered! I love working with a local warehouse to receive all your goods, it makes everything so much easier for all involved!

Finally, in step 9, your contractor is complete and furniture is in the warehouse, we install! This is a whirlwind of a few days with furniture being delivered and installed - it’s super exciting!! We have a final walkthrough and usually a mini-photoshoot… then I’m out of your hair! There are always little things down the road that need addressed - like that wall really does need a piece of art. I’m just a call a way!

This is why there are interior designers! Home remodels, renovations and commercial projects are a lot of work - that’s why we are here!

Just a reminder - give me a call to kick off 2023 with a kitchen renovations! When your guests have left after Thanksgiving and you are over your kitchen… that’s where I come in! Ha!

Hope you all are surviving the craziness this year!