My Design Process ensures that there is little to no surprises leading to expensive setbacks. I take care of all the details for you and invite you to be involved in the process as much as you would like. Open communication is essential to helping clients feel comfortable for the duration of a project. With that in mind, here's a detailed overview of what you can expect when you choose to work with me:
0. PREPARATION AND DESIGN BRIEF
0.1 INITIAL CONSULTATION
Free no-obligation meeting to discuss and understand your goals, tastes, living style and budget.
0.2 PROJECT PROPOSAL QUOTATION
This document will outline your initial requirements and your preferences, priorities, the design intent and goals, budget and schedule for the Project. Based on the agreed scope of work for the Project, I will prepare the Project Proposal- a written quotation for the Design Phase of the Project.
PHASE 1. DESIGN
The Project shall be comprised of 4 distinct design phases: Preliminary Evaluation, Concept Development, Design Development and Handover & Final Presentation more specifically detailed below.
1.1 PRELIMINARY EVALUATION
On-site measured survey, photos of the space, inventory of all existing items to remain, and trade day (when required). This is a common and necessary occurrence at the beginning of every project.
1.2 CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Space planning- this is where I bring function into your space. This design phase serves to provide a vision, a concept for the space. The focus is the architectural and functional aspects of the Project.
1.3 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
The Design Development is the phase where the agreed design concept is refined based on your feedback. We will meet as necessary, to refine the design until your needs are met aesthetically and economically. This design phase will consider and include furnishings layouts, colour schemes, interior finishes, wall, floor, window and lighting treatments, etc., specifications and estimates are created.
1.4 HANDOVER & FINAL PRESENTATION
We will review the design in detail. You will be presented with detailed drawings to scale, floor plans, furniture layouts, digital visualisations and 3D renderings (3D renderings are available upon request as an Additional Service to the Project) necessary to illustrate the design plan- based on previous discussions and agreements. You will be presented with a detailed Specification Sheet of interior finishes and items of furnishings used in the design theme and budget estimates for trade work and/or artisans where necessary. Handover is subject to full payment of final invoice and all other outstanding fees.
PHASE 2. PROJECT ADMINISTRATION (DESIGN IMPLEMENTATION)
If you would like me to coordinate the implementation of your design, I would be delighted to handle that for you. Design Implementation services do not include shopping for and purchase of interior finishes, items of furnishings, etc., staging assistance, selection and purchase of decorative accessories.
2.1 BUDGET AND PROCESS REVIEW
We will schedule a brief meeting to review all materials, including finishes, flooring, tiles, wood pieces, etc., that are part of the design theme. This meeting is to ensure that all work (trades or DIY) follows the design flawlessly, and to avoid any surprises leading to expensive setbacks. We will review any concerns or questions you may have, our payment schedule, and timeline.
2.2 PURCHASE AND PROCUREMENT
A time window of (up to) two weeks is required in order to source the stock for fit-out, from time of agreed Budget and Process Review.
2.3 INTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Your new space is photographed. These images will be shared with you and may be published in the promotion of my professional service through publication, websites, with due respect to your privacy.
2.4 PROJECT COMPLETION
Before we conclude our time together, we do a final walk-through with you. Any feedback you provide at this point is deemed valuable information.
My Design Process ensures that there is little to no surprises leading to expensive setbacks.
I take care of all the details for you and invite you to be involved in the process as much as you would like.
Respectfully,
Maria Merz
Architectural Interior Design