Schematic DesignSchematic DesignDeveloping a Design Plan

The major difference between an untrained designer and a skilled expert is the expert depends upon a “flow chart” or sequential outline for a

project.

May 2010

Good Design Requires a PlanGood Design Requires a Plan

To gain a client’s confidence and to assure your success in completion of a project, you must have a plan

Steps in the Design ProcessSteps in the Design Process

Identify the project Assess the client characteristics Analyze the environment Develop a preliminary budget Compile a design resource file Plan use of space Choose a style and color scheme Select backgrounds, furniture, lighting, and accessories Present the design Make changes based on client input Implement the design

Step 1Step 1Identify the ProjectIdentify the Project

The sequence of steps, even for a small project, is the same for a large project. The difference is the amount of interaction the clients usually have with each step.

What is the goal? What do they want to accomplish? What is your budget? How knowledgeable is the client about what their needs are? What is the time frame to complete the project? What is the client’s current credit situation? Write or adjust a letter of agreement or contract and secure client

signature

Step 2Step 2Assess The client characteristicsAssess The client characteristics

Success will result from understanding the clients needs.

Lifestyle◦ Entertainment◦ Hobbies◦ Study/work areas

Atmosphere◦ Formal/informal◦ Rustic/contemporary/traditional◦ Color preferences

Future Considerations◦ Pets, growing family, empty nesters, long-term guests

Step 3Step 3Analyze the EnvironmentAnalyze the Environment

How will the following be impacted in the design process?

Inventory the existing spaceActivities/services space will provideStorage areasBackground spaces (flooring, walls, windows

lighting)Furnishings and accessoriesMeasure space and furniture

Step 4Step 4Develop a Preliminary BudgetDevelop a Preliminary Budget

A Cost Estimate must be presented to client and include the following

Cost of item including shipping costVendor supplying itemDelivery times (estimated)Contingency FeeDesign Services Fee

Step 5Step 5Resource FileResource File

You must be able to convey to the client the final project to their satisfaction before placing an order.

PhotosBrochuresPaint/wallpaper/carpet samplesLarge projects may require trips to

showrooms or manufacturers headquarters

Step 6Step 6Plan the Use of spacePlan the Use of space

Every room starts with a blank canvas. Satisfaction will result in how you use the space in your design.

Floor PlansElevations

Step 7Step 7Choose a Style and Color SchemeChoose a Style and Color Scheme

Now it’s time to create a space that reflects your clients style and your expertise. This will have the greatest visual impact on the room

Style (formal vs. informal

Color Schemes

Step 8Step 8Select BackgroundsSelect Backgrounds

Choosing colors, patterns and textures to use are the factors that will have a great impact on the atmosphere the space will reflect

FloorsWallsFurnitureWindowsAccessories

Step 8 (Step 8 (part 2)part 2)Completing the BudgetCompleting the Budget

Once you have chosen items from the previous steps you will complete the cost estimate with actual prices of items selected.

Create a completed budget for design project

Step 9Step 9Present the DesignPresent the Design

Final presentation to client will allow you to convey your ideas visually.

RenderingsSample BoardsComputer Presentations ModelsCAD

Step 10Step 10Implement the DesignImplement the Design

The TimelineIf you want to work with this client and keep

their trust/business this step is criticalWhen must the project be complete?InstallationsPlacing ordersHow do you handle delays?Final sign off

Satisfaction!Satisfaction!

Congratulations!On a job well done

What are the benefits?