Unpacking The Interior Design Process

Design Development Stage

Following the Conceptual design, the stage is Design Development Stage. This stage of the process is similar to the conceptual development stage; however, focuses on managing details rather than creative design. Feedback from the conceptual design stage is used to revise floor plans and specific details of the design are flushed out. Decisions are made regarding furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) as well as other important components like cabinet finishes. If required, a 3D model of the space may be created to give clients a sneak peek at what the space will look like.

Similar to the conceptual design stage, the floor plans and other visual components are presented to the client for review. Based on the materials selected by the client the budget and timeline of the project may require alteration.

Technical Design Stage

In the Technical Design stage, the project becomes more than just a design. Now that all of the design details have been sorted out it is time to turn the floor plan into a construction document. The interior designer uses the detailed floor plan to create a technical construction drawing that can be used by other stakeholders moving forward. After feedback from stakeholders is implemented into the construction documents, the new documents are approved by the client and the construction stage can begin.

Feedback is welcome at all stages of the interior design process but at the end of the technical design, stage changes become more difficult to implement. Even small changes may have a ripple effect that can result in major changes to the budget and timeline of the project.

Stakeholders may vary depending on the size of the project but common stakeholders include architects and contractors. Interior designers, architects, and contractors all work together in harmony to ensure the client’s perfect space can be created. This collaboration is a key part of the interior design feedback process and requires interior designers to receive feedback on specific elements of the project. Although interior designers may collaborate with stakeholders throughout the entire project, feedback in the technical design stage is especially important as they influence the final construction documents.

Feedback from Architects

Architects and interior designers are often confused with one another. Since they carry out similar duties, it is an easy mistake to make. Although the two professions are related, they are distinct and different from one another. Architects focus more on the structure of the building and take into consideration factors such as plumbing, building codes, and the exterior of the building.

Implementing feedback from architects is extremely important as it ensures the space is safe and functional. Interior designers and architects may even collaborate on elements like floor plans and interior elevation, as this is within the scope of work for both professionals. Collaboration allows for a smoother design process and can prevent any issues as the project proceeds.

Feedback From Contractors

Depending on the size and scope of the project interior designers may also collaborate with contractors. While interior designers are responsible for making the space look beautiful, contractors like plumbers, electricians, and construction workers do the heavy lifting. Contractors are responsible for sourcing building materials, obtaining permits, and performing renovations to the space. These responsibilities make contractors a key stakeholders in any interior design project.

Feedback from contractors is extremely important as it keeps the design in line with what can be realistically executed on-site. Interior designers can receive feedback from contractors by sharing floor plans and conducting site visits to speak to contractors directly. Collaboration is key for avoiding any hiccups in the project so respecting the feedback of contractors is essential.

Summarising Interior Design Process

During the interior design process feedback and collaboration can make or break a project. There are various stages in the interior design process that each requires the designer to meet a specific set of goals and receive feedback from various stakeholders. These Stages include:

Programming Stage

· Preliminary information from the client is collected

· Feedback from meetings and questionnaires is used to create the project brief

Conceptual Design Stage

· Client is presented with floor plans, sketches, and mood boards for review

· Feedback is used to revise floor plans and refine design elements

Design Development Stage

· Detailed floor plan is presented to the client along with any 3D renderings

· Feedback is used to alter the design and add specific details such as FF&E

Technical Design Stage

· The finalized design becomes a construction document used to guide the rest of the project

· Feedback from architects, contractors, and other stakeholders is implanted into construction plans

Conclusion

During the interior design feedback process, collaboration is the glue that holds everything together. Receiving feedback from the client and other stakeholders improves client satisfaction, ensures the space is safe and minimizes the chance of a major setback. An interior design project with consistent and clear communication is bound for success!