the residential interior design process
The interior design process is an intersection of creativity, psychology, functionality, and personal style to craft spaces that reflect those who inhabit them. The transformation from “before” to “after” can be an intimidating process for those looking to start a new project. Understanding the steps involved can help shed light on what to expect as you consider a new project.
Initial Consultation
One of the reasons we started Bound Collaborative was to better relate to our clients. We do this by offering a complimentary initial consultation so we can all decide if we’d be a good fit for working together. During the initial consultation, we engage with clients to understand their project, timeline, budget and aspirations. After this meeting, we create and provide a proposal catered specifically to the project.
Pre-Design: Information Gathering, Goals and Visioning
When we kick-off the project our design team visits the space to get photos, dimensions and assemble initial drawings to document existing conditions and lay the foundation for new floor plans and design. We’ll also talk about your goals, and vision for how you want to use and function in the space as well as your style, values and priorities.
Schematic Design
Next, during the schematic design phase, we start to develop concepts and ideas. We analyze the layout of the space, considering factors such as circulation, storage needs, proportions and furniture placement, to create preliminary floor plan options tailored to the unique needs and routines of the client.
Mood boards, sketches, and inspiration imagery serve as tools to articulate the proposed style, color schemes, furniture styles, and overall aesthetic. Collaboration between designer and client is key during this phase, as feedback and adjustments help progress the concept into a vision that reflects the client and their lifestyle.
Design Development
Materials play an important role in shaping the tactile and visual experience of a space. During design development, we curate materials, finishes, furniture and fixtures that support the design concept and functional needs. From flooring and wall treatments to fabrics and lighting, every selection is made with care, considering factors such as durability, sustainability, cost and aesthetic appeal. We pay close attention to detail as well as textures, colors, and patterns to create a cohesive and interesting space with depth and character. During design development we also move the drawings forward, adding information and details to floor plans and creating additional views like elevations that are useful for pricing & later for construction.
Construction Documents & Specification
During this last design phase we make small changes and finalize details and selections. We have final review meetings, and exchange questions and answers but for the most part, this is a “heads down” phase for the design team as we get everything ready for construction. Here, we also organize all of the materials, finishes, fixtures and furniture into documents that make it easy for us, the contractor or the client to purchase everything needed for the project.
Construction Administration, Implementation & Installation
Once design and documentation is complete we hand the drawings over to the contractor to begin the physical transformation. Skilled craftsmen and tradespeople bring the design to life, meticulously executing each detail with precision and care. Throughout construction we prefer to stay as involved as possible to oversee the project, ensuring that the integrity of the design vision is preserved, answer questions and work through any issues that arise, making certain the client's expectations are met.
Finishing Touches & Celebrating the Transformation
The culmination of the residential interior design process is the much-anticipated project completion. For clients, this means the dust is wiped clean and artwork and accessories are intentionally placed to reveal a transformed space that improves their quality of life and reflects their personality and lifestyle. For us, it's a gratifying culmination of creativity and hard work, a testament to the power of design and collaboration.
The design process is a journey that relies on collaboration to reach the ultimate transformation. It may not always be perfectly linear, but from the initial consultation to project completion, each phase unfolds with purpose and is guided by the clear vision and goals set at the beginning. One of the benefits of this process is how it supports intentionality and streamlines decision making, hopefully relieving some of the stress that can come with undertaking a design project.