Do you have a new project and you wonder where exactly to start?How exactly do you start an interior design project?
If you've just completed an interior design course,you are probably used to being handed over a brief with instructions on how to handle a school project or if you are simply an interested party with no background in design you probably normally just assemble what you think will look good in the space.
Here is how I tackle an interior design project (home edition) to ensure i give my client the best overall project:
Talk to the client and purposefully understand their vision;most clients will say they dont know how they want their space to look like or they are open to anything yet reject the proposals you sent.The secret is even after talking to them,tell them to send you ideas of what they've been saving or interiors they like.That way you'll be able to understand their style and what they want clearly.
Prepare your brief;list down the requirements on the spaces you are working on,the feel you are going for,the function and what you want to show in the space.
Insist on a site visit;the next step is to physically go to the space and take your time to understand the space.Take note of the direction of light,wind,the character of the environment around and the location even though the client may say that the project is small and there is no need.
Make a second site visit;in this second visit go in and take your measurements and photographs of the space.Do this even if there are existing drawings of the project because often what is on paper may be altered during construction.Strive to as accurate as possible.
Prepare a schematic presentation with your interpretation of what the client wants as well as your proposal as an interior designer and decorator and insist on getting feedback from the client.
Prepare final presentation highlighting your design proposal and go to the very small details such as brand of paint or type and brand of fabric.Explain to client why each item is selected as is and its role in the space;explain why you go a certain brand and not the other.Your overall goal should be to give your client the very best.
Talk to your team/client team of contractors to ensure they understand the vision.Get engaged fully with them and be present for any questions they may have.
Shop with the client and the contractor,although you may have the design knowledge,the contractor may have prior knowledge on what or how things are fixed that you may not know,therefore as much as you are leading the team,listen to what they have to say
Finally, have fun with the project.
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