So, you’re thinking about hiring an interior designer—exciting! But if you’ve never worked with one before, you might be wondering: What exactly happens between that first call and the moment you step into your beautifully transformed space? Designing a home (or even just a single room) is more than picking paint colors and pretty furniture—it’s a thoughtful, layered process that blends creativity with strategy, aesthetics with functionality.

Every designer has their own approach, but in general, the process should unfold in a series of carefully structured phases. Think of it like building a house—you wouldn’t start hanging curtains before laying the foundation, right?

Over the next three blog posts, I’ll take you behind the scenes of my interior design process-breaking down what goes into it, the key steps involved, and what you can expect when working with me.

First up, here’s a brief overview and then I will get specific about the individual phases.

The Interior Design Process: From Vision to Reality

1. Initial Call & Consultation – Getting to Know Each Other

This is where it all begins. Most designers start with a discovery call or in-person meeting to get a feel for your needs, style, budget, and expectations. It’s a chance to ask questions, discuss your vision, and see if we’re a good fit to work together.

2. Concept Development – Defining the Vision

This is the heart and soul of the design process—where ideas start to take shape. It includes in-depth discussions, a detailed questionnaire, mood boards, color palettes, and initial space planning. More on this phase in just a bit!

3. Design Development – From Ideas to Concrete Plans

Once the concept is approved, the real planning begins. I finalize layouts, select furniture and materials, and create technical drawings and 2D and/or 3D renderings to bring the vision to life. It’s the bridge between inspiration and execution.

4. Procurement & Project Coordination – Sourcing, Ordering & Organizing

Time to bring the plan into action! This phase involves ordering furniture, working with vendors, and managing logistics to ensure everything arrives as planned. If renovations are involved, this is also when I coordinate with contractors and tradespeople.

5. Installation & Styling – Bringing the Vision to Life

Finally, the magic happens! We install furniture, layer in lighting and decor, and style the space down to the last detail. The goal? A polished, cohesive, and functional home that reflects you.

For this bathroom renovation above, my client wanted to update their dated bathroom to a clean, modern, fresh look usung eco-friendly materials.

Diving Deeper: The Design Concept Phase

Of all the stages, the concept phase is the one that lays the foundation for the entire project. This is where I get to know you—your lifestyle, preferences, and aspirations for the space—so I can craft a design that feels authentically yours. Here’s what happens during this crucial phase:

Step 1: The Intake Process – Laying the Groundwork

The first step is all about gathering information. I dive deep into how you use your space, what’s working (or not working), and what you envision. I might do a walkthrough (virtually or in-person), analyze architectural details, and start identifying any functional challenges.

Step 2: The Design Questionnaire – Uncovering Your Style & Needs

To get a clearer picture of your design preferences and lifestyle, I provide a detailed questionnaire. Here are some of the key things we ask:

• What’s your daily routine, and how do you use this space?

• What colors, materials, and textures do you love (or can’t stand)?

• Do you have any inspiration images or Pinterest boards?

• What emotions do you want the space to evoke? Cozy? Energizing? Relaxing?

• What’s your budget and ideal timeline?

• Any must-haves or non-negotiables?

Honest answers help us design a space that truly suits you—so don’t hold back!

Step 3: Getting to Know You – Beyond the Questionnaire

While the questionnaire is helpful, nothing beats real conversation. I chat with you, look at your existing space, and pay attention to subtle cues—how you dress, the types of decor you already own, even the way you describe what you want. (Sometimes, people say they love modern design but have a home full of vintage finds. That tells us a lot!)

Step 4: The Concept Presentation – Bringing Ideas to Life

Once I have all the details, I create a design concept presentation, which typically includes:

• Mood Boards – A visual guide to the colors, materials, and overall vibe of the space. It’s intended to capture the overall essence, the look and feel of the project.

• Project Summary – Setting the overall goals of the space (aka gameplan). This is where I capture my clients wish list. Think big ideas, colors, materials.

• Preliminary Layout – Rough layouts to determine the best use of space. This layout also helps with the preliminary furnishings budget.

• Preliminary Budget – Furnishings budget and rough estimates on any trade work. This budget will be developed and finalized once we get further into detailed design.

This is the moment where everything starts to feel real! I present these ideas, get your feedback, and refine as needed before moving on to the detailed design phase.

The Bottom Line: A Process Built for You

The design process isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about crafting a home that reflects your personality, enhances your lifestyle, and brings joy every time you walk through the door. The concept phase sets the stage for a smooth, enjoyable journey to your dream space.

Thinking about hiring a designer? Let’s start the conversation—you bring the ideas, and we’ll bring them to life!

Would love to hear—what’s the #1 thing you’d love to change about your home? Drop it in the comments below! And if you want to set up a discovery call to discuss your project click the button below and shoot me an email.