HOW WE WORK

"I have found that no client has exactly the same needs. I’m approached for help for different reasons and my level of involvement varies. Some clients are looking for a full interior design service and some are looking for me to have a consultancy role.  Some clients already have technical drawings and gone to contractor’s tender when we meet and some are in the initial stages of thinking about what they may like to do.

 

The stages below cover a ‘full' interior design service, from ’concept to completion'. They give an idea of how we work and the steps involved in working with a designer.

 

A first meeting…..

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I always begin with an initial meeting preferably at the client’s home.  This is an informal conversation to listen to your needs, your thoughts and what you are hoping to achieve. We’ll chat through some initial ideas and how I may be able to help you.

 

Stage 1: Preparation and Briefing

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Once appointed we begin the design process by establishing in detail what you are looking to achieve, any important information on time frame or other special project requirements. We will help you develop your thoughts in more detail and what your expectations are. With this information, I will write a ‘Confirmation of Brief’.

 

The Confirmation of Brief may be changed, reduced or added to at any point, but it serves as a reference document for us both as we move forward.  This Brief helps us ensure that time is being spent appropriately and responsibly.

 

Stage 2:  Concept

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Once the Brief is agreed we will begin to put together some initial concepts for your project.

 

Stage 2 may include any or all of the following:

• Further consultation meetings and site meetings

• A measured survey

• Scale plans and elevations detailing the layout of furniture, joinery, electrical sockets, lighting and other services

• Interior schemes and concept boards

• Kitchen and bathroom plans

• Design of bespoke items

• Sourcing of fabrics, flooring, lighting, paints and furniture

 

With an agreed concept and plans, you may feel ready to move forward without us and do the ordering, expediting and managing yourself.  In which case that’s fine!  We are here if you need us.  Otherwise….

 

Stage 3: Implementation

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Once the concept and the plans have been agreed we move forwards to Implementation.

 

At this time we will begin to coordinate all the interior elements.  This is when a lot of the unseen administration work happens. The ordering and expediting of goods involves a large amount of detail and there are many elements to manage.  We will ensure all the orders are done correctly avoiding unnecessary delays caused by missing information and poor specification.  Every supplier, tradesperson and contractor will be briefed on what is happening, when it’s happening, what other elements or people are involved and who is responsible.  We keep track of the orders, lead times, stock availability and handle unforeseen issues as they arise.  If a timeline changes we ensure everyone and everything affected by this is made aware. The aim is to keep the project running as smoothly as possible for you.

 

If building works are involved in your project then the approved plans will form the basis of the tender documentation for the contractor to price.  At this time technical or working drawings can be produced to enable accurate costs to be obtained.

We will also recommend any other specialist consultants that may be necessary, e.g. a structural engineer or discussion with listed buildings, as well as any other permissions you may need before building works can begin.

 

Afterwards

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When your project is complete I am always on hand for anything that may arise.  It goes without saying (I hope!) that the support is ongoing.  I will always have details of everything involved in your project, names, numbers, specifications if needed.  You are very welcome to get in touch."

 

Emilia