If you haven’t worked with an interior designer before, chances are you’re not completely clear on how the process works. A common misconception is that a designer will select paint colors, window treatments and some furniture and send you on your way. The truth is, the interior design process is far comprehensive and thoughtful.

At Dwelling Place Interiors, my team and I are deeply passionate about designing homes that reflect both your vision and lifestyle. Each phase of our process is carefully designed to ensure you feel heard, understood, and confident in every decision. From start to finish, we focus on creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and meaningful to your life. Here’s how it works…

Phase 1: Discover

What to Expect: Our journey begins with a complimentary discovery call — a fun and friendly conversation that gives us the opportunity to discuss your goals, vision, and expectations. We’ll actively listen to gain an understanding of your needs and ensure a good mutual fit.

How You Can Prepare: Before the call, think about your design goals, any hesitations you might have, past experiences with other designers, your desired investment, and ideal timeline. It may be helpful to jot down your broad goals for the project so we can get right to the heart of your vision.

Phase 2: Explore

What to Expect: After confirming we’re a good match for each other, will send a client questionnaire to learn more about your likes, dislikes, lifestyle, and how your family lives in space (don’t forget your pets!). 

Then, we will schedule your in-home consultation where we’ll assess your space in-person, taking measurements and photographs to gather all necessary details. This consultation also includes a discussion of your questionnaire answers, design preferences, lifestyle needs, and any existing pieces you’d like to incorporate into the new design.

How You Can Prepare: Jump onto Pinterest and create a board for your dream home! Pin any and all inspirational images, and don’t worry about identifying specific elements or styles — this should feel fun! Our job is to organize this vision and show you what will work for your project.

Phase 3: Customize

What to Expect: Following our consultation, we will prepare a detailed proposal based on our discussions. This includes the scope of work, estimated costs, and project timeline. It’s important to us that you have as much information as possible about what your project will entail before starting.

We will schedule a meeting to review the proposal in detail, address your questions, discuss priorities, and ensure the project stays aligned with your expectations.

A Note on Design Fees: Our team accepts projects with a minimum investment of $35K, and our flat fee is based on the square footage of the space being designed.

Phase 4: Design Presentation & Approval

What to Expect: Once the proposal is approved, we’ll begin developing initial design concepts uniquely tailored to your style and vision. We will present these ideas to you during a Concept Meeting, the first exciting reveal of your project! Here, you’ll have the opportunity to provide feedback and refine the direction of the design.

Once the design direction is solidified, we will create detailed design maps of each space, including floor plans, color palettes, material selection, and furnishings. These maps will give you a clear understanding of how your space will look and function once the project is complete.

A Note on Timeline: This phase typically takes 4-6 weeks, depending on the scope of your project. You’ll have up to two revisions per room to make sure everything is just right.

Phase 5: Procurement & Implementation

What to Expect: Once your design is finalized and approved, our team will begin ordering, tracking, inspecting, and storing all materials and furnishings. We manage every single detail—from coordinating trades to overseeing the project’s progress and ensuring everything is going as planned. There’s no need for you to lift a finger. We’ll provide you with regular status updates so you’re always in the loop.

A Note on Timeline: This phase can take anywhere from 12-20 weeks or up to a year, depending on your project’s scope.

Phase 6: The Big Reveal

What to Expect: The final phase is when every beautiful detail comes together. We’ll oversee the white-glove delivery of your furnishings, carefully placing everything in your space, and thoughtfully style each room with hand-selected accessories to complete the look. The moment we welcome you into your newly designed home is always emotional, exciting, and celebratory!

A Note on Timeline: For most projects, we aim for one large installation day, though larger projects may require more than one.

A Process Thoughtfully Designed for Breathtaking Results

Each phase of our comprehensive design process is thoughtfully crafted to keep you informed, confident, and excited as your project progresses. From the moment we start working together, we focus on creating spaces tailored to your lifestyle and vision. Our goal is to make this journey as enjoyable and straightforward as possible so you can love your home for years to come.

If you’re ready for this experience with your own home project, start right at Phase 1 and book your discovery call. I can’t wait to connect with you!

Warmly,
Rochelle