What to Expect

Whether this is your first time working with a professional Interior Designer, or simply your first time working with us, you likely have questions about what to expect from Surroundings’ interior designers.

The design process

At Surroundings we strive to provide clients with a functional space that meets their needs and exceeds their expectations.  Our mission is to help our clients realize their vision, with down-to-earth advice and a sense of humor along the way. Working with the belief that each home should be as unique as its inhabitants, we find satisfaction in seeing our clients delighted with, and comfortable in their distinctly new surroundings.

Our design process can address any or all of the surfaces in your home: window treatments, fabrics, furniture, flooring, light fixtures, color scheme, rugs and accessories to name a few.

We have developed the process described below to ensure your experience with Surroundings is a positive one.  Each stage is tailored to develop a design concept that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

 

thumb_01_60_60Initial Meeting

Initially, we prefer to meet with you in your space to gain an understanding of the project and discover your style and vision.  At this time we will discuss our design services and packages to determine which of these best fits the scope of your project.

thumb_01_60_60Interview

Upon your selection of services, a detailed interview will take place to help us determine your specific goals and requirements for the space. Photographs and measurements will be taken in preparation for the schematic design process.

thumb_01_60_60Schematic Design

In this phase, we will develop a preliminary design concept for your space. This may include conceptual sketches, inspirational images, and potential color schemes and finishes.

thumb_01_60_60Refining Phase

As we refine your design, we present you with preliminary design concepts for review. We will collaborate with you to ensure that our ideas will meet your functional, aesthetic and financial goals and requirements. Revisions to the plan may necessitate multiple meetings during this phase.

thumb_01_60_60Finalized Design

After adjustments have been made, the design plan is finalized. We will present your design in detail so you gain a clear understanding of how your space will look and function. At this time, your design team will order any necessary furnishings, materials and finishes, and develop an installation plan with any involved contractors.

thumb_01_60_60Installation

It is important to us that your project run smoothly from beginning to end. Our design team will monitor each phase of installation through site visits and frequent contact with you as well as your contractor(s). We are always available to field any questions you may have.

thumb_01_60_60Evaluation

Upon completion of each project we like to meet with you to review the outcome of our process.  We may ask to photograph your project for our portfolio, which allows us to keep a record of your completed project in your file.  We use this final meeting to ensure that you are as happy with the outcome of the project as we are.

Please Note: Many of the design phases listed above may require several meetings to finalize.  We are committed to working with you until you are comfortable with every aspect of the design before moving forward.  This process is truly tailored to the specific needs of each of our clients.  Please contact us for more information. 

We look forward to working with you.