The Interior Design Process is an essential aspect of making the dream projects of clients come true. It starts with understanding the client’s requirements and continues until their vision has become a reality. Whether you are an interior designer or a property owner, knowing the interior design process can be beneficial. It gives you an idea of the schedule and what to expect. Here are the basic steps involved in the interior design process.
Client Consultation
The interior design process begins with client consultation. The interior designer or architect analyzes the details given by the clients and identifies their requirements. He or she will ask the clients the specifics regarding the utilization of the interior space and their preferences. The budget of the clients will also be determined along with the time frame for completing the project. The designer or architect will try to get as many details regarding the project as possible. For clients with commercial properties, the branding needs of the organization may also be discussed.
Project Proposal
Once the architect or designer has determined the requirements of the clients, he or she will prepare a project proposal. It will detail the scope of the project and the requirements of the clients. It will also include the fees that will be charged for the project. If the designers or architects are going to hire their preferred contractors, the proposal may include the bids of the contractors as well. Clients or property owners may solicit project proposals from multiple agencies or architects. They can select a proposal that best fits their needs.
Schematic Design
The interior design process will enter the schematic design phase next. After the clients accept the proposal of one of the architects or interior design agencies, the selected party will start preparing a schematic design. It will include the space plan and layout for furnishing items. Rough sketches and finishing options will be presented in it. The design should ideally be based on the requirements of the clients instead of the space available. The designer or architect will take into consideration the likes, dislikes, and preferences of the clients as well as their lifestyle while preparing the schematics. The clients will be asked to review the schematic design. It will be adjusted according to their suggestions and revised until they are satisfied.
Design Development
Design development is the next step of the interior design process. After the clients or owners are pleased with the schematic design, the architect or designer will prepare detailed plans of the interior. It will include floor plans, elevations, furnishing, and equipment. The colors and interior finishing are refined according to the taste of the clients or their branding requirements. The clients can review and suggest revisions for the detailed drawings. Design development is complete once the clients give their final approval.
Contract Documents
Upon the completion of the final design plan, the interior designer or architect will prepare contract documents. They consist of detailed drawings and specifications that will be used by contractors and subcontractors for construction. Electrical and plumbing layouts, flooring, interior finishes, lighting plans, paint, and fixtures to be used will be specified in detail. The documents will also include cost estimates that may be used by contractors for submitting bids to the clients for interior construction. The clients will give these contract documents to contractors for inviting their bids.
Construction Administration
The final step of the interior design process is construction administration. After the contractors and subcontractors start the construction, the interior designer or architect will oversee the activity. He or she will frequently visit the site and ensure everything is in order and according to the design. Once all construction activity is complete, the designer or architect may be present alongside the owner for a final inspection of the site.
