The Interior Design Process
The interior process is a dance between the client and their interior designer. The image below describes a typical interior design project timeline with Susanne Desbrow Interior Designs in Calgary, Alberta, and British Columbia.
We've also written it out below for accessibility.
Programming Stage
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The designer collects and analyzes facts, uncovers & tests concepts, determines needs, and creates a problem statement.
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During this time the designer and client meet.
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Provides client with design questionnaires & conducts interviews.
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The designer and client will meet for a site visit(s) to review the existing space and performs a site measure.
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During this time the designer will perform a preliminary code review.
Client Role: Answers programming questions from the designer.
Schematic Design
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Diagrams showing functional relationships are prepared based on the defined scope. These develop into a schematic floor plan, and several options are usually created.
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Studies are done to establish the design concept of the project.
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During this stage, the following can be expected:
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Preliminary plan.
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Preliminary finish selection options.
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Programming review with the client.
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Schematic plan revision.
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Client Role: Approval of floor plan, concepts, & budget.
Design Development
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The schematic plan is refined, & details are developed.
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Design criteria are forwarded to engineers.
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Building permit drawings are completed, as well as floor plans and elevations.
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Sourcing:
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finishes (materials)
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plumbing fixtures
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light fixtures
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millwork hardware specifications
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furniture, if applicable
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window coverings
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3D renderings, if required.
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Design meeting(s) with the client.
Client Role: Approval of design & materials.
Working Drawings
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Drawings and documentation
are created for tender and
construction. -
BP code review upon receipt of
AHJ report completion of the following drawings-
ID0 Site plan
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ID1 Partition plan/ legend/ door schedule
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ID2 Power and communication plan
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ID3 Reflected ceiling plan
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ID4 Finishes plan
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ID5 Sections, Millwork & details
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Drawings coordinated with
engineers. -
Schedules for finishes, millwork
hardware, plumbing fixtures and lighting are finalized. -
Client drawing and schedule review for approval.
Client Role: Approval of design & materials.
Tender
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Contractors submit
pricing and the
preferred contractor
is hired by the client and permits are secured as necessary. -
Preparation of Bid
documents. -
Evaluation of bids with owner
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Written confirmation to unsuccessful bidders.
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Coordination with
contractors.
Client Role: Contractor approval, budget review, approval of all furniture fittings & equipment (FF&E)
Construction & Completion
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Attend site regularly
& meet with the
construction team:-
Revisions
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Site visits
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Shop drawing review
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Purchase orders
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Site instructions
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Deficiency list
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Client Role: Site meetings with designer & contractor. Participate in final review & reveal!