Interior design is a creative profession, but designers are more than artists. They are practical problem solvers who create spaces that support people’s lives, their needs, tastes and requirements. Because each element of design impacts the psychological perceptions and comfort of a client, our professional interior designers use an evidence-based approach to design that involves four phases. For over 40 years, this approach has resulted in residential and commercial interior designs that reflect each client’s specific desires and needs while maximizing the return on each client’s design investment.
During the Programming Phase, Vogue’s interior designers hold client conferences to ascertain the client’s lifestyle requirements and aesthetic goals and to establish the design direction. In concert with the client, the designer will review the job site, architectural design, and building plans and establish ideas for possible changes and improvements. This phase also includes initial contractor conferences to review the proposed changes and improvements and to discuss construction scheduling and logistics.
Design Development involves two phases, the first of which is focused on the actual interior design and material specifications. Based on the information gathered during the Programming Phase, the designer will design and draft the interior detailing and provide drawings for approval. All materials and finishes, including floor coverings, wall finishes and colors, built-in cabinetry designs, electrical and lighting plans and fixtures, kitchen, bath, and laundry cabinetry, hardware, plumbing fixtures, and granite and solid surface materials for countertops will be specified and presented for client approval.
Design Development continues in phase three of the Vogue process. During this phase, the designer will create and draft a furniture plan for approval, select and/or custom design furniture pieces, finalize paint colors, wall coverings and specialty wall finishes and create custom faux finish treatments that might be incorporated into ceiling and wall features. Decorative lighting fixtures will be selected as will flooring materials that coordinate best with existing flooring, and carpeting for the bedrooms, as well as design and/or select area rugs. We will also design and specify window and privacy treatments, bedding, decorative pillows and embellishments; select and place accessories such as artwork, lamps, silk arrangements, silk arrangements, plants, trees, table-top pieces and other items; and generate purchase orders with manufacturers, suppliers, and galleries.
With the design finalized and approved, and all of the furnishings and materials specified and ordered, the process moves to phase four. During this final phase, the designer will administer all aspects of construction and design installation, including the coordination of the contractors, periodic visits to the job site to ensure work is proceeding in accordance with the design plans and documents, and meetings with the client, builder, and subcontractors as necessary. As work by the contractor progresses and materials arrive, the designer will actively supervise all aspects of the design installation.