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Idea Folder
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A good way to start any project is to have an "idea folder" so you have one place to put all of your inspirations. It sometimes can seem like a confusing task to decide what you want to do with your new space, so let's start with trying to figure out what styles appeal to you most. Inspiration for style is everywhere but an obvious place to start is by looking through home magazines. While looking, notice what images you are drawn to instantly...if you loved it, tear it out and put it in your folder. The importance of this process is not to filter, just go with your first instinct on what you are most attracted to while browsing. You can also look through catalogs and furniture stores to see what types of furniture you are attracted to. Don't forget to gather some samples of your favorite colors and fabrics, which are always great places to start a concept for your design. Just remember, if you love something you have seen, take a picture or get a sample and put in your idea folder. This process can really help narrow down ideas, because you will start to see a consistent pattern or least find out what you do not want in your home. Another important aspect to consider when planning for design work is to figure out your "must haves". Maybe you want to focus on a magnificant floor treatmet, an eye-catching original painting, luxurious fabrics, or an ultra-comfortable sofa. Whatever your "must haves" are, take note of these and make a priority list of what is most important to you about designing your home. Going through this process before can be so beneficial because it allows the designer to gain a clearer picture of your needs and your visions. Communicating visually is sometimes the easiest way for the client and designer to be on the same page. But maybe you are not sure of what style you want in your space, or maybe you only have one piece of fabric that you are inspired by? No worries, because we can help you concieve an entire concept and work with you to help develop your style!
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Oh, the Budget
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One of the most important factors in preparing for design work is the BUDGET, and without it, there is no real way to begin any kind of design work. First, start out by coming up with a figure of what you want to spend for everything, this will be your top dollar, nothing goes past this figure. You might not know the costs of everything you will want to do, but at least you will have a good sense of what you want to spend, and then we work backwards from that figure. Once you have established this figure, come up with a list of priorities for your design work (again, your "must haves"). With the figure and this list, the designer can help you establish a working budget for the project. This working budget will consist of estimates per area of design, for instance, like the max figure you want to spend on lighting or artwork, etc. By focusing on your priority "must haves" first, we establish the actual prices of these items before other areas to assure these items are exactly how you want them. From here, we continue to work backwards from the figure. The itemized budget usually changes throughout the process depending on selections from the client, but the firm top dollar figure can stay the same. If you find yourself wanting to add more to your top budget, then we will just rework the itemized budget to suit your needs. We will always communicate with you about maintaining the budget and setting realistic goals, especially since we believe in smart spending! The client and designer's communication about the budget is very crucial to the design process and provides a lot of help for a great, working relationship.
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