01 — Define the brief
Review the property, goals, constraints, budget and timing. Identify decision-makers and what information is missing. The outcome is a shared understanding of the work required and the basis for a written proposal.
02 — Explore the direction
Develop layout ideas and a visual direction. Compare them against the brief, not only against individual preferences. Resolve the major functional decisions before spending time refining small details. Ask how many options and revisions are included.
03 — Develop the selections and details
Coordinate materials, fixtures, furniture, lighting and millwork. Check how the choices work together and how they relate to the budget and schedule. Keep selections awaiting supplier information or site verification clearly marked.
04 — Prepare agreed documentation
Create the drawings, schedules and specifications listed in the proposal. Confirm what they are intended for and how they connect to architectural, engineering, contractor or supplier documents. Track revisions so the team uses the current information.
05 — Coordinate purchasing and implementation
Order products and carry out construction through the responsible parties. The designer’s role may include answering design questions, reviewing substitutions or attending agreed site visits. Construction management and trade responsibilities need separate clarity.
06 — Review completion and handover
Review the items included in the design scope, identify outstanding decisions and gather relevant care information. Confirm who handles defects, warranties and any later service requests. A well-defined closeout helps everyone understand what is complete and what remains.
Use an approval point between stages
Record the agreed direction before moving into the next stage. If a decision changes later, ask how it affects completed work, price and timing. A documented change is easier to manage than an informal assumption.
Related questions.
Does every project need all six stages?
No. A focused consultation may end with advice or a brief report, while a renovation can need a much broader scope. Your written proposal should identify the stages and deliverables actually included.
How long does the process take?
Timing depends on the scope, decisions, required reviews, product availability and the construction team. Ask for a project-specific sequence and distinguish design milestones from construction completion dates.
Further reading: IDIBC’s description of professional interior design and S+N Design Studio’s own service information.
This is general editorial planning guidance, not a project-specific design, legal, engineering or permitting opinion. Confirm your project’s requirements with the appropriate professionals and authorities.