Are you curious as to how the design process begins and unfolds? While each firm’s processes may vary, many share some core steps. Here I’ll be explaining an overview of our processes.
DISCOVERY CALL
A brief initial call to discuss the overall project and an opportunity for you to ask questions. At the end of the call, if you think we might be a good fit for the project, you can book the next step – an in person consultation.
CONSULTATION
An in person meeting to discuss more details of the project such as timing, budget, scope of work, and deliverables. We will assess the site at this time, take photographs of the existing spaces and often take measurements. We will also review the Letter of Agreement with you so we can address any questions you might have. Whether you choose to engage LRID for further services or not, this meeting will leave you with a solid sense of direction and decisions to move forward with your project. Depending on the scope of work and details discussed, we will either give you a copy of the meeting notes while onsite, or we will follow up with a deeper dive, suggested next steps, and more.
ENGAGEMENT AND CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
Upon acknowledgement that you would like to engage LRID for further services, we will send you an Interior Design Services Contract outlining the discussed SOW and when possible, estimated associated design fees. A retainer and executed Interior Design Services Contract and Addendum are required prior to the the next phase - programming.
PROGRAMMING
Upon receipt of the retainer and documents, we will send you a programming questionnaire, tailored specifically to your project, to help us learn in more specific detail about you, your needs and desires for the project. These questions are based mostly on the functional aspects of the design and may require the input of other inhabitants of the spaces we’re designing – such as children or spouses. This can be completed in writing, or can be a fluid conversation on the phone / in person. LRID will review and synthesize the information, sending key details and notes to the pertinent design-build team members.
PROJECT COMMENCEMENT AND DELIVERABLES
This will vary based upon the scope of work for your project. For example - if it is new construction, it starts with a kick-off meeting on site with you, LRID and the general contractor. Then digging into the space planning to be sure the architectural design fits all that you need into the spaces in a way that’s conducive to your lifestyle. If it is a refresh of an existing home, it might start with LRID sourcing furnishings or accessories. Whatever the scope, the deliverables will be outlined in the Scope of Work. Below is an example of how things may progress for an interior furnishings package. Please note, the below progression is based on someone who would like us to do all of the design and doesn’t want much involvement other than decision making. However, we love collaborating with our clients and can do as much of that as you’d like along the way!
Kick off meeting – we will present you with some imagery to gain insight to your likes and dislikes and to generate an organic conversation about the feeling you want your spaces to invoke when you enter them.
4 weeks from kick off – we will present you with a design concept at which time we will show you some of the key pieces we’ve selected for you and use the presentation to further hone in on your preferences for function, texture, and color. At this time we will also develop a more defined budget.
4 weeks from design concept – we will present you with a full design plan and invoice for the furnishings.
Once the furnishings are approved and the invoice is paid, we place all orders within one week.
Once all orders are placed, we manage all the logistics – tracking, receiving, inspecting, storage, and delivery.
Once we’ve received all furnishings, we schedule between one and five days for installation and styling.
Then…it’s time to welcome you home!