The KEY FUNCTION of an interior designer is to interpret the ideas and identity of the client in order to provide an appropriate environment for the client to live or work. This is briefly encompassed by three stages. FIRST STAGE: Gathering and analysis of client information as a foundation from which the designer can develop ideas. SECOND STAGE: This is the creative stage, and while largely intuitive, is guided by design principles and guidelines "to create balanced and harmonious spaces appropriate for their function". In order to achieve this, the designer considers key areas such as: human dimensions, scale, proportion, balance, rhythm, emphasis, harmony, space, movement, shape, form, mass, line, texture, pattern, light, and, of course, color. THIRD STAGE: Whatever it takes for the implementation of stage one and two to be successfully suited to the client's needs. More about Roles of Designer

What You Should Expect What you should expect from your Interior Designer: 1. The sense that your interests and opinions matter. 2. An accessible and proactive effort, taking the initiative to complete the job. 3. That some of your existing furnishings will be integrated into the new design, if you wish. 4. Assurance that the designer will stick to a budget (and not to tempt you with "the best" unless you insist). 5. A full understanding of your lifestyle and use of your living space. 6. Being shown a full range of options and products and creative ideas. 7. The ability to see the net cost of every item, if you desire. 8. As hassle-free a process for you as possible. 9. Open communication with you to avoid surprises. 10. That you love your new space after the job is complete

The Process The interior design process is unique to each client and is structured differently for each project, so great attention is given to work effectively within your personal needs. Every project starts with the "initial consultation". This takes place in the client's space so the designer can access the space and review accommodations and existing style of home. The designer and client will have a question and answer discussion about their needs, and the designer will take notes and photographs of the space. Design advice is not given at this time of the first stage. After this, the creative development begins where the designer develops solutions for your space and a concept scheme, including a general color palette and ideas for furnishings and fixtures, etc. This will be reviewed with client with proper visual materials so the client can gain a clear picture of the concept. Once this is reviewed, we incorporate any changes the client sees fit and the initial concept is approved. From here we work to turn the concept into reality. At this point, the budget needs to be defined so that we may understand limitations and gain a clear understanding of everything before the actual selection process begins. In the selection process, the designer starts to implement the design development by researching and resourcing all items to be selected for project. During this time, the client and designer have several meetings to review the findings and make selections. This may include in-house visits, internet communication, and shopping trips to view products. We work in a manner where we concentrate on selections from larger pieces to smaller ones. Therefore the first step is approving the main color palette and then space planning and movement chart, in which we assess what types of main furniture would best accommodate the client's needs. Once this is approved, we then work towards selecting accent furniture, fabrics, lighting, window and floor treatments. The very last step is the finishing touches such as art work, accessories and accent lighting. After all selections have been approved, the purchasing phase begins (or continues) and we start to install the space. Sometimes it works out better for clients to install a few pieces at a time, gradually implementing the design work. Or we can work to have all pieces delivered and installed during a specific time period. During the end of installation, we ask that you allow the designer and the installation crew to have some time alone in your space to add the finishes touches and to review all work. We then invite you to have a walk through with us to make sure everything meets your satisfaction!