Have you ever considered hiring an interior designer but hesitated, worried that your vision might not translate and the final design wouldn’t reflect your personal style? Rest assured, there are numerous opportunities throughout the design process where you get to relate your feedback, show off your personal style and change your mind. Below is how we here at Coastal Interiors (on a typical interior design project- not including a reconstruction) approach the design process—think of it as a behind-the-scenes look at what the design process looks like.

An Overview:

This journey begins with an inquiry, this is where you express your interest in hiring an interior designer. This involves discussing your project goals, scope and initial ideas (perhaps linking to any mood boards or photos). Within a week of inquiring (over email or our website) you will hear back from Coastal Interiors and be approached about setting up an initial meeting (a.k.a the consultation). 

During the consultation, you meet with the designer in-person to discuss your vision in more detail, preferences, and budget. This is your opportunity to ensure that we understand your needs and that we are good fit (vice a versa).

Here, we will ask for you to fill out our client homework which will give us a better idea of your project scope before sending over your official welcome packet and contract. 

(**Note that if you were interested in only ‘hiring a designer for an hour’ this consultation might look a little different.)

.01 Inquiring

.02 Consultation 

In this phase, the designer explores various styles and concepts that resonated with you during the consultation. This is where we help to identify your personal aesthetic even further. The designer will compile ideas of how to transform your space to function well and enhance the home aesthetic.   

.04 Inspiration Presentation 
(Finding Your Personal Style)

This "inspiration presentation" sets a foundation for the design direction and ensures your space reflects your individuality. Here at Coastal, we try to make this a very hands-on experience where you get to see inspiration and get to touch some sample fabrics, woods, tile and or wallpapers. Here we aren’t looking for the pieces that will make it into the final design, but what you may want them to feel or look like when you are experiencing them.

You will also be asked more about the function of your space for planning purposes. For example, for a living room you may be asked a series of questions like: “How many people do you want to comfortably seat”, “How many people do you host and how often?”, “How deep and low do you like your seat”, “How do you typically move through the space” and so forth. This is also the time where measurements will also be taken and any furniture that will be staying in the space is noted by the designer. 

.03 First Round of
The Design Time

At the design presentation, you will see how initial ideas have evolved into full concepts. Two design concepts will be showcased, encompassing everything from furniture and fixtures to surface planning, including tiling, flooring, wallpaper, and paint colors. Alongside the presentation, you'll have the opportunity to interact with a physical mood board and provide feedback. After making your selections, you may also be invited to visit a showroom to test a piece of furniture or, if customizing, to leave feedback on your desired changes. If there are a few items that do not resonate with you, the designer will take note and make revisions for your review at a later date. This iterative approach ensures that every detail aligns with your expectations and lifestyle.

.06 The Design Presentation

With the knowledge your Designer gained from your inspiration presentation, they will begin designing specific items for your home. This round of the design process involves the creation of layouts, color schemes, mood boards and larger item selections. This step involves carefully selecting quality items and collecting samples for textures you may want to feel before purchasing. 

.05 Second Round of Design and Sourcing

After finalizing the designs and sourcing items, there may be a waiting period as products are ordered and delivered. Patience is key during this time, as it allows for the careful assembly of your dream space. You will receive the option of having the items shipped to you (if the scope of the project is small enough) or shipped to a receiving warehouse where they will be held until install day. Sometimes- items may take too long to procure, and you will be given the option of selecting a replacement or waiting. 

.07 Procurement

Delivery day is an exciting milestone when all the carefully chosen elements arrive at your home. The designer oversees the installation, ensuring everything is placed according to the design plan and meets your satisfaction. Final touches (small decor) may be done on this day or another day if need be.

.08 Delivery & Install Day

Once the project is complete, the designer will follow up to ensure you are satisfied with the results and to address any lingering questions. Additionally, you will receive a care and warranty packet containing important information on how to maintain your new space.

.09  Follow-Up

Blog written by Lieske