This phase is all about discovery—a deep dive into gathering and processing vital information before the design journey truly begins. During this crucial time, we take the opportunity to understand every nuance of the project, ensuring that the concept design is firmly rooted in the client’s lifestyle and aspirations. Specifically, during this stage, we will explore:

• The vision and goals for the space, shaping its purpose and personality.
• Budget considerations and timeline expectations, which set the framework for a seamless process.
• Functional needs such as storage, lighting, and spatial flow, thereby ensuring a perfect blend of beauty and practicality.

The focus is on the big idea or overarching vision for the project. In this stage, we will align the designer and client on the overall look and feel before moving into detailed planning. Specifically, we will discuss:

• The mood, theme, and stylistic direction of the design.
• A creative exploration through mood boards, color schemes, inspirational imagery, and initial sketches or conceptual diagrams.
• The artistic vision that will guide the project, thereby setting the tone without diving into intricate technical or spatial specifics.

This is where the initial shapes of the spaces and ideas take form. During this phase, we will create several design options for you to consider—at least two, and often more—utilising all the information gathered in the previous step. Subsequently, we’ll meet to discuss these designs with the aim of narrowing it down to a single preferred concept that we can move forward with. Typically, this design will incorporate elements from various schemes, resulting in a hybrid solution. Ultimately, the phase concludes with your selection of a scheme for further development. By the end of this phase, we’ll typically have the following:

• Schematic Floor Plans
• Sketch Elevations / 3D Model

Building upon the schematic plan developed in the previous phase, we begin creating the drawings digitally. In this step, we bring the building to life by drafting the floor plan, which includes the walls, windows, doors, and stairs as needed. Additionally, we generate the initial set of interior elevations and start considering interior materials, finishes, fixture selections, hardware, and appliances.

At this stage, we’ll typically schedule a meeting to discuss the design’s evolution, with the number of meetings depending on the project’s complexity. Upon completion of this phase, you’ll have a set of drawings that represent a nearly finished space, although they may not yet be sufficient for construction:

• Floor Plans
• Interior Elevations/Sections
• Outline of Interior Schedules
• Lighting Concept

This phase consolidates all the information about the space into a comprehensive set of drawings and specifications that the Contractor will use for pricing and construction. Think of it as an instruction manual. For a typical project, I produce the following drawings:

• Floor Plans
• Interior Elevations
• Interior Details
• Electrical / Lighting Plans
• Specifications
• Schedules (Door/Window/Hardware/Lighting/Finish/Appliance, etc.)

During the construction documents phase, your input will be minimal, as most decisions will have already been made. However, if there are any outstanding finish selections or cabinetry design choices, we’ll arrange a meeting to finalize those.

As part of our full-service offering, our interior design studio in London assists you with the ordering and procurement of all scheduled items, including furniture, fixtures, and accessories. Our procurement fee compensates the time spent identifying the right suppliers for your project and managing orders.

This process includes overseeing restoration and upholstery, refining bespoke item designs, negotiating prices, processing payments, and handling logistics to ensure timely delivery. Additionally, we manage any issues related to orders, such as refunds and exchanges, providing you with a seamless experience.

By entrusting us with these tasks, you can focus on enjoying the design journey, knowing that every detail is expertly managed. Our goal is to simplify the procurement process while ensuring that each piece aligns perfectly with your vision. From sourcing to delivery, we are dedicated to making your interior design experience smooth and enjoyable.

During construction and design implimentation we’ll take on the role of your on-site representative. Our job is to monitor progress and ensure everything aligns with the contract documents. Our on-site services includes site visits, coordination with contractors, problem-solving, and ensuring quality standards are met.

At the stage of ‘Substantial Completion,’ we collaborate with the contractor to create a punch list and oversee its implementation. By the end of this stage the project fully completed and ready for you to move in!

With your approval, we will engage our architectural photographer to professionally capture our collaboration. Additionally, we will handle the styling and cover all related expenses. See our latest photoshoot for PLATFORM Store.