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Interior design follows a structured process from initial discovery through project completion. Understanding the phases helps clients know what to expect and participate effectively. The timeline and depth of each phase varies by project scope and service level.

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Discovery Phase

The first meeting establishes foundation:
  • Discuss goals and vision
  • Understand lifestyle and needs
  • Review likes, dislikes, and inspiration
  • Tour the space together
  • Discuss budget parameters
  • Explain design process and fees
Designer collects information:
  • Measurements and documentation
  • Photography of existing space
  • Architectural plans (if available)
  • Existing furniture inventory
  • Client questionnaires
  • Inspiration images from client
Clarify what the project includes:
  • Which rooms or spaces
  • Scope of changes (furnishing, renovation, both)
  • What stays vs goes
  • Timeline expectations
  • Budget allocation

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Concept Development

Designer develops overall direction:
  • Design style and aesthetic
  • Color palette
  • Material direction
  • Mood and feel
  • Overall vision
Layout development:
  • Furniture arrangement options
  • Traffic flow optimization
  • Functional zones
  • Storage solutions
  • Architectural modifications (if applicable)
Designer presents initial concepts:
  • Mood boards or concept boards
  • Preliminary layouts
  • Color and material samples
  • Style direction
  • Budget overview
Client provides feedback and approval to proceed.

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Design Development

Designer specifies all elements:
  • Specific furniture pieces
  • Fabrics and finishes
  • Paint colors
  • Flooring materials
  • Lighting fixtures
  • Hardware and accessories
  • Window treatments
  • Artwork direction
Detailed presentation includes:
  • Final floor plans
  • Elevations and renderings
  • Specific product selections with images
  • Fabric and material samples
  • Detailed budget breakdown
Based on client feedback:
  • Modify selections as needed
  • Adjust budget allocations
  • Refine design elements
  • Finalize all selections
  • Obtain final approval

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Documentation

Designer creates detailed documentation:
  • Product specifications and sources
  • Material specifications
  • Construction drawings (if applicable)
  • Custom fabrication details
  • Installation instructions
For renovation projects:
  • Construction drawings
  • Finish schedules
  • Electrical plans
  • Plumbing specifications
  • Millwork details

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Procurement

Designer manages purchasing:
  • Place orders with vendors
  • Track lead times
  • Coordinate delivery schedules
  • Manage back-orders and substitutions
  • Receive and inspect deliveries
Furniture and materials have varying lead times:
  • In-stock items: Days to weeks
  • Custom upholstery: 8-12 weeks typical
  • Custom furniture: 12-16+ weeks
  • Imported items: Variable, often longer
  • Custom millwork: 6-12 weeks
Planning for lead times is critical to timeline.
For design-only or consultation services:
  • Client receives shopping lists
  • Client places orders directly
  • Designer may assist with specific items
  • Client manages deliveries

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Implementation

For renovation projects:
  • Review contractor bids
  • Attend construction meetings
  • Review work in progress
  • Address design questions
  • Approve completed work
Furniture and finishing installation:
  • Coordinate delivery schedules
  • Oversee furniture placement
  • Direct installation teams
  • Hang artwork and accessories
  • Final styling and arrangement
Final details and corrections:
  • Identify items needing attention
  • Address any damages or defects
  • Complete final touch-ups
  • Ensure all items delivered and installed

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Project Completion

Review completed project:
  • Tour all spaces together
  • Review all installed elements
  • Discuss care and maintenance
  • Provide product information and warranties
  • Address any remaining concerns
Client receives:
  • Paint colors and specifications
  • Vendor and product information
  • Warranty documentation
  • Care instructions
  • Contractor contacts (if applicable)
Many designers photograph completed work:
  • For portfolio documentation
  • For client records
  • May hire professional photographer
  • Client approval typically required

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Timeline Expectations

Typical timeline for full-service design:
  • Discovery: 1-2 weeks
  • Concept development: 2-4 weeks
  • Design development: 4-8 weeks
  • Procurement: 8-16+ weeks (depending on lead times)
  • Implementation: 1-4 weeks
Total: 4-8+ months for comprehensive projects
  • Project scope and complexity
  • Client decision-making speed
  • Custom vs in-stock selections
  • Renovation requirements
  • Contractor schedules
  • Supply chain issues
Projects can be accelerated by:
  • Quick client decisions
  • In-stock furniture selections
  • Fewer custom elements
  • Single room vs whole home
  • No renovation work

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Client Participation

Successful projects require client:
  • Clear communication of preferences
  • Timely feedback and decisions
  • Honest budget discussions
  • Availability for meetings
  • Trust in the process
Key moments requiring client approval:
  • Concept direction
  • Budget allocation
  • Major furniture selections
  • Finish and material choices
  • Layout decisions
  • Change orders
Projects stall when clients:
  • Delay decisions
  • Change direction repeatedly
  • Don’t communicate budget constraints
  • Are unavailable for meetings
  • Second-guess approved selections

Next: Costs and Fees

How designers charge and what to expect

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