The Interior Design Process

Oftentimes, Interior Designers and stylists will have their own way of organizing and starting a new design project. As a student, I am currently only taking on smaller renovations and home makeovers, but I still have a certain process that I use to get the project rolling.

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Determining Style

The first step I take when starting a new Interior Design project is to get to know the client and their style. By doing this I can ensure that the client and I are on the same page and that the design can flow with the rest of their home. To do this, I will most often have a one-on-one phone call with the client before doing their complementary one hour consultation. A lot of times when a client is preparing for a project, they will have some photos that they like, or at least an idea of what they are looking for. And if not, that's my job to help them find what they are looking for.

The Design Concept

Following the consultation, if the client knows what kind of project they are doing, I will measure the space and make my own notes for the concept. For renovations or remodels, the clients are often confining the project to a single space or room, so I will photograph and measure the existing space at the end of the consultation to base my designs on.

During this step, I will also take the photos from the client or compile my own photos to create an inspiration board for the client. I will usually create three or four inspiration boards depending on the scale of the project. After creating the inspiration boards, I will create a couple of preliminary plans for the space. Upon completion of this step, the client will receive a package with the inspiration boards and plans, and we will schedule an appointment to further discuss the project.

Developing the Design

During this step, I will create the plans and elevations for the space, with the client following along throughout the process. These designs will include any cabinetry, lighting plans and furniture plans. Colour schemes will also be determined during this step, and the client will then receive 3D renderings of their space.

Making the Shopping List

In this step of the process, the client and I will meet for the last time to discuss furniture and finishes. I personally work with Benjamin Moore paints and stains, as I am experienced in their products and I trust their craftmanship. For furniture, flooring, cabinetry, etc. the client can decide whether I should contact suppliers myself, or the client can take the designs and plans, and decide for themselves what to do.

Then it's up to The Client

Following the last step of my process, I can often leave it up to the client to source out their own furniture using the concept designs I created for them. This way the client can use my designs and suggestions and customize them to their own budget and timeline.