Hey guys! We’ve had so much fun covering this side of all things business on our site, and today we’re sharing Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {the process, part 3}!
If you’re not familiar with us, we covered a little bit of what we do:
• In our FAQ’s post, {where we’ve outlined a little of our company}
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {getting started, part 1}.
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {getting started, part 2}.
We definitely recommend checking out these other posts, if you’re not familiar with this topic, or if you’re curious.
So let’s jump in, shall we? Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {the process, part 3}
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know: The Design Process is Fluid and Collaborative
With our process, we’ve had our initial meetings {usually a second} to talk through all design needs, wants, and requests. There’s then a third quick check in, before the next meeting to nail down a few things like floor plans and flow so that by then, we’re ready to get to the good part. {Please note, this is a vague outline, and all depends on the scope of the project. See: an entire house tear-down / rebuild this year the design process looks very different – we have each process laid out for efficiency.}
But this is officially entering the process stage. It’s where we’ve taken your requests and needs, all the measurements and more… and spent our time sourcing great solutions for you. We’ve tracked down samples, chosen colors, laid out floor plans, schematic drawings, design boards and more. This is the fun part. Here are a few things about this stage that we want you to know.
Bonus: Contact us early for scheduling! While I’m on the subject of all things scheduling, this is something we’re mentioning again, in case it was missed. Make sure you contact us as early as possible if you think you might want to work with us! It’s never too early to start planning. This always helps all parties involved with your renovation.
1. You don’t have to marry anything, just explore it. We usually have a lot to present at once, especially if there’s more than one room involved. That means you will receive a lot of information in one sitting. We never want this to be overwhelming. We just want to talk through all of it and see your initial feeling.
2. Don’t be afraid to speak up. If you have any questions in the moment, please ask away. What we’ve learned in this process is that everyone handles and processes information differently. Some people need time to sleep on things. Some people love it all right away. Sometimes it just takes a few switcharoos and people are ready to go. And the rarest of all the rare, sometimes we’ve nailed it and they love it and those are the best days ever. It happens in different variations and we’re happy to make it just right. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions and speak with us during the process.
3. Analysis Paralysis. Some clients also experience this, and it’s perfectly normal. We want to help you through it and give reasons why the design might be a good call, if you’re having reservations. Or if you don’t think it will work, let us work through new solutions with you, that will. Give yourself time to think on the design, and just remember we’re here to help. It’s all about trust.
4. Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen. We’ve seen it happen. We’re sure they mean well. Sometimes, friends and extended family can get very opinionated. We think its great to get feedback from friends and family… it’s part of the process. It’s natural to want to show your mom paint choices and talk to your dad about flooring. We just have one request: Boundaries. Don’t let them get in your head or run all over what you have planned for your home. Everyone comes at this from a different angle, because of various life experiences. Some people think designers are unnecessary and that painting a kitchen is over the top. But there’s a fine line between opinions and letting someone dominate your situation. Most of the time, said people are unfamiliar with how designers work, so take it with a grain of salt. You’d be surprised {or maybe not so much} on how often we see this happen. It can cause a little confusion, and all we ask is that if you like the design, {again} please trust us. For instance, it doesn’t matter what your MIL thinks about marble in the kitchen, if you like it. {Remember when we said design is a lot like therapy?}
Speaking of too many cooks in the kitchen…
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know: The Client Comes First.
We put the client’s needs and wishes, first. We start with the design so that we stay on track. Unfortunately, we live in a society where everyone has an opinion, and everyone thinks said opinion should be heard. We have our process for a reason because it it works.
When you’re working with us, we want you to know you’re in control, not the contractor. Or handy man. Or electrician. And we work as advocates for you. It’s not the other way around. We hold your hand all the way from that very first meeting, all the way to that photo finish. We’re just as invested in the project as you because it’s something we’re passionate about and want to see that vision brought to life. We’ve lived through our own renovations, and we know what it’s like to be on the other side. We’ve had experiences with amazing contractors whom we consider our friends, and nightmare contractors who shouldn’t be called contractors because they have no idea what they’re doing. Sometimes, workers are known to choose things that are easier and cheaper for them- not you. The same goes with plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and more. Everyone has an opinion on your home, giving advice on a whim. It’s important to take a step back when someone is outspoken on the job, and ask why. What dog do they have in the fight? Because it happens a LOT.
Unfortunately, it’s human nature to usually want to cut corners because it’s easier. We’re putting you first, and fighting for that beautiful, end product. {And remember, when working with us… those contractors aren’t always necessary, because we have our own crews who are accustomed to our process, and working with us and you as the general contractor.}
Just to clarify, we want to hear what the experts actually have to say when it comes to what they actually do, because they see it every day. See: Placement on a floor heater per the tile installer’s recommendations. There’s a big difference between great recommendations, and random opinions spouted off, just because it’s easier for them.
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know: Just Because You Can…
Doesn’t mean you should. Remember that thing about no small projects? Try not to go rogue without talking with us first. We keep emphasizing communication, because you’ve hired us for a reason, and we’re here to help. 85% of our job is communication and organization. {Probably more, that’s just a guess.} That means maybe don’t do things on a whim when we’ve laid out a solid plan, and trusting the process is good.
Just check in before you buy that awkward yellow sectional that doesn’t fit in your space because your sister Sally is a decorator and said it looks great… Repeat after me: You’re not bothering us! We’re in this together, and we’d really like to be kept in the loop. Check in with us and we’re happy to talk through things as we go.
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know: Open Containers Upon arrival
This is just a little housekeeping note. Check all your orders as they arrive, to make sure they’re correct and undamaged. When a vanity arrives and sits in your garage for three months, you probably should open it before said sitting occurs. This is actually in our contract for a reason. Sometimes clients are overwhelmed and don’t think about such things. Relatable. Been there done that. Companies usually have a limit on returns, and we want to help you finish this job. We say this until we’re blue in the face: Check all your boxes! We know it’s sometimes fun, and sometimes overwhelming. Just check within the first 48 hours. You’ll be glad you did.
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This, dear friends wraps up part three of things your designer wants you to know! We hope this helps give you an idea of what to expect when you’re getting started with us. Or maybe what to look for, if you’re working with someone else.
Next up, we’ll be covering part four, to more parts of the process. What are some other topics you’d like to see covered in this area? Any questions? Add them below! If you’re a designer, what would you like to add to this list? We’d love to hear!
Did you know that we take on clients in the Nashville area and nationally? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us here!
Have an inspired day!
psssst… see the rest of this entire series, here!
• In our FAQ’s post, {where we’ve outlined a little of our company}
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {getting started, part 1}.
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {getting started, part 2}.
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {the process, part 3} –you are here
• Things Your Designer Wants You to Know {red flags, part 4}
We just built a house and moved in December. The designer was so valuable. I called her “our marriage counselor” because she steered us in the right direction when my husband and I had different ideas. I was like a “deer in the headlights” when it came to picking tile for our Master Bathroom. She immediately picked out three choices and I love what we ultimately chose. She also had access to some discount furniture places and helped us with barstools, end tables, coffee table and had a person who could recover a chair. It was a huge relief to have someone help with all the million decisions that come with building a house.
This is so good to hear Cindy! Amen to the Marriage counselor bit. 😀