This is a detailed description of our full interior design process (full renovations + furnishings and only furnishings) is described in this page. The process is divided in 4 phases and systematized in 15 steps. This is an important sequence for us to follow, so we can have a successful project process and development. The steps can overlap each other in a few moments, and there is a need to change the steps sometimes, but most of the time we keep the following arrangement in order.
FULL RENOVATIONS & FURNISHINGS
PHASE 01
DESIGN CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Step 1 - Consultation with Renata Gross
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We meet with you in the location to be designed, for a collaborative client and designer interview. This meeting takes about 1-2 hours (depending on the scope of the project).
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We discuss details such as your goals for the space, your design aesthetic, how you will be using the space, what inspires you, your time-frame for completion, and your budget.
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We provide an overall design recommendation, with a direction for your project.
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We discuss which types of our 4 services would be a better fit for what you want to accomplish, if you still not sure.
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In this meeting we are mutually discovering if your project is the right fit for each other.
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Step 2 - Fee Proposal, Outlining Project Scope and Estimated Design Fees
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We outline the scope of work for the entire project, our design intent and goals.
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We estimated the design fee structure, with your initial design fee required to get started, the estimated timeline, and the terms and conditions.
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The Proposal is approved and the concept design fee is received with proposal signed. Depending on the complexity of the scope of the project we can divide the concept design fee in 2 payments. One now and the other after Step 5.
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Step 3 – Survey: Site measurement, Photos & Style Definition
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We set a date to measure and take photos of the space (s) to be designed.
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We discuss the project ideas and style thorough collected inspiration images and a design questionnaire that we ask you to fill out.
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Step 4 – Concept Development, Sourcing, Researching – Part A
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For a period of time we need a time to brainstorm and start creating a layout, collecting the first options, as furnishings, materials, fixtures for the project.
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This is still a good time for the client also to explore the directions that he/she wants to go and share with us.
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We schedule an in-person meeting to present the first layout idea, with a few furnishings & materials options.
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In this meeting we should select and make a few decisions.
Step 5 – Concept Development and Quotes & Estimates – Part B
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We take the initial concept to further development, defining more specifically all the elements that would go in the concept, creating sketches, elevations, and color schemes.
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We source in depth all materials, fixtures and furnishings.
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An initial budget is developed during this phase for the furnishings and materials.
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Step 6 – First Presentation, Budget, Revision (If Any)
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We meet with you again to go over the details of your custom design plan.
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This includes all drawings, color scheme, mood board, fabric samples, furniture selections and budget breakdown.
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The balance of our design fee is done at this time.
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This is the moment where the work with a flat fee is completed.
PHASE 02
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
Step 7 – Final Presentation of Design Concept
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The final presentation includes working drawings, color scheme, all furnishings, fabric memos and detailed budget breakdown - item by item. And a 3D drawing of each room if client agrees to pay extra for this service.
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All the elements involved in the concept will all be laid out for you so that you will be able to visualize what the finished space will look like.
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Any adjustments to the budget due to revisions are agreed upon at this meeting.
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We leave with you a set of drawings, the budget list, images of the furnishings and samples of the materials.
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Step 8 - Contractors Quotes + Estimates
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Once the concept is approved, we invite all the subcontractors or/and contractors that will be involved in the process for a site visit to discuss the project scope and to take measurements and photos.
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They will each provide a written estimate outlining their scope of work and the cost for labor and/or materials.
PHASE 03
PURCHASING MANAGEMENT
Step 9 - Procurement and Project Management
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In this step, we create all purchase orders, track orders, assess lead times, note any back-orders or discontinued items that may delay the project, and make decisions whether or not to re-select.
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During this time, we make sure that our projected timeline is adhered to by all vendors.
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While demo and construction is happening (when applied) we start ordering and receiving all the items agreed upon, including furnishings, materials, etc.
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Claims and reorders are made for any items that arrive damaged.
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Full installation assistance is provided with custom items, like window treatments. ​
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​PHASE 04
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
Step 10 - Initiation of Construction & Renovation
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This step we begin the development and construction of your project. Here is where every detail is managed to ensure a successful completion. We collaborate with builders, vendors and fabricators and make site visits as necessary.
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Step 11 - Budget Review (On Larger Projects)
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We sometimes call a second budget meeting on larger projects. This is especially true if change orders were created at the request of the client. This is where we ensure that we are on track with budget. This step is usually not required for smaller projects
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​ Step 12 - Final Walk Through
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Although we strive for perfection, mistakes can happen. The final walk through is where the client gets a chance to point out any deficiencies observed - Items like a small splash of paint on the floor, missing dresser knob, a small rip on a pillow etc.
Step 13 - Resolving Deficiencies
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We coordinate with the trade person, subcontractor, or vendor involved to cure any deficiencies within 14 business days. Thankfully, this step is not needed in most cases, but we make sure that you will be happy with your finished space.
Step 14 - Client Closure Meeting
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We meet to close out the file for the project and make sure that you are fully satisfied with your new space.
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We send the final invoice of any pending hours.
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We will also graciously ask for any feedback, reviews and referrals, and discuss any additional projects you would like to move forward with.
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Step 15 - Professional Photography
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We will schedule a professional photographer to shoot pictures of the project, which we will also share with you. If we intend to have these pictures published in a local or national publication, we will discuss that with you and determine if you want your name disclosed or not.
ONLY FURNISHINGS
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STEP 01
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WE MEET IN PERSON FOR A CONSULTATION
(fee by the hour - $150)
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It’s essential to meet each other in person to get to know each other, and see if we could be good partners for the project. We learn about your lifestyle and needs.
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WE CREATE AN INITIAL BUDGET PLAN
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Why a budget plan is important?
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Help us to have a better perspective of how much you want to spend.
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Control and guide your own expenses.
YOUR RECEIVE A LETTER OF AGREEMENT FROM US
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You sign the letter of agreement and we start developing the design concept. If you decide not to sign the agreement you would have an initial furniture plan to guide you with your design solutions.
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A FURNITURE PLAN + ELEVATIONS IS DRAFTED
(fee by square feet - $.99)
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We survey the space that is going to be designed taking measurements and photos.
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Why a furniture plan is so important for the project?
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It creates a scale furniture layout that would define the space smartly.
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Knowing what we need in the space help us to define a budget.
STEP 02
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DESIGN CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
(fee by a flat fee per room)
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We learn more about your design style preferences... What works better for the existing architecture style of the space to be furnished, for your lifestyle, how you plan to live in this space, etc.
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A full schematic design concept is created specially for you. Take can take a few weeks or months to be fully development. It depends on the size of the project.
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What is in a design concept?
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The initial furniture plan created in the first phase is revised, fully develop in details.
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The necessary wall elevation is drawn determining heights, positions of art, lighting fixtures, millwork, décor details, etc.
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A collection of items and a color scheme is created, based in the furniture and budget plan.
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A collection of accessories (art, lighting fixtures, décor objects, etc.) is created.
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A quote of the every item in the project is generated, including the grand total.
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A photo realist rendering is created if client need it (for an extra fee).
PROJECT IS PRESENTED TO THE CLIENT
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This is the moment that the client approves the items and/or request for a full revision. After the revision done we have a second presentation. If client is still not satisfied with the options another revision is provided for an extra fee.
STEP 03
DESIGN CONCEPT IMPLEMENTATION
(fee is 10% of the total budget)
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This is the phase of the project that client makes all the final approvals.
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We start purchasing, ordering all the elements from the plan.
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We coordinate deliveries and installations.
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We assist with issues that arise, providing solutions and in some cases organizing returns and reordering.
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