Process

STEP 1 - INTRODUCTIONS

Get in touch with Kristen to discuss the project on your mind. Come with a project budget & timeline to help us determine some realistic possibilities for you. If we move forward in scheduling a Design Working Session together you may complete a tailored questionnaire that helps us dive deeper into your project wish list.

STEP 2 - DESIGN WORKING SESSION

A design coaching session lets you tap into an architect's brain for unique design ideas & plenty of functional improvements. These work best if you're ready to roll up your sleeves & don't need full-project involvement from a design professional yet need some help to get going. If you later decide you need more assistance, we use this session as a springboard into a larger project together.

We'll discuss what is & is not working, determine design possibilities & limitations & ultimately coach you to good design decisions. Ideas are loose at this early stage but a follow-up email with actionable items is included for clear direction.

Click here for different a ways to use a session, which can often be conducted virtually for out-of-towners. Please note that multiple areas of a home & exterior work typically requires separate design sessions.

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STEP 3 - DESIGN CONCEPT PHASE

This steps narrows down the early ideas from our working session & helps you to better visualize the transformation of your space into the very best solution. We dive deeper into spatial layout, lighting improvements, colors, materials & finishes. Schematic drawings may be provided to show mechanical, electrical, plumbing, millwork or furniture layouts, which ensure your contractor understands the design intent. We provide as-needed technical drawings to the contractor, who will handle all permit requirements.

If your vision changes or your wish list evolves during the process our way of working allows you to pivot. We want you to feel confident moving forward. Some clients like to dabble & purchase multiple Design Concept packages to "get there" but it all depends on how you make decisions.

STEP 4 - RENOVATION ROADMAP

This optional document serves as an organized quick-reference guide. You'll already have the critical info exchanged in emails, but one comprehensive packet that includes the summary, design specifics, site information & reference photos that can be helpful to share with other trade professionals.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES
available only after completion of Steps 1-3

3D VISUALIZATION

If you would like advanced visuals to better understand your design concept we can create photo-realistic color renderings or animated walk-through experiences. This is valuable to clients who like a more immersive experience or who need additional help visualizing some details.

MORE PROFESSIONAL TIME

It's like having an architect on call. Once we've worked together through Step 3, add on time as needed in 3-hour blocks for the same rate as a 2-hour Design Session. Ask us to custom design a media wall or select artwork & accessories. Have us shop with you or advocate for you at contractor meetings. Use this option to add on time with your architect as you need.

DOES A PROJECT COST MORE THIS WAY?

No, for 2 reasons:

You manage how much you spend & where it is spent, rather than signing a long term, lump sum contract without a guarantee for what you'll get in the end. Clients maintain better control of their project investment.

If you like the images you see on our website you'll probably love the ideas we put together for you. In the off chance you do not you wouldn't need to redo the hard early work that's needed for all projects. We'll have weeded out problems, narrowed down possibilities & found at least 1 potential great solution. Plus, you'll have learned design strategies lessons along the way to apply to your next project. Working this way offers minimal risk to discover many great possibilities!

PROCESS