Questions We Ask Before Starting A Project

Exploring the Foundations of Great Design.

Design is more than just visual aesthetics; it's about understanding the people who will live in the spaces we create. It's about translating their dreams, needs, and desires into beautiful, functional living environments. Today, we're going behind the scenes to unveil the essential questions we ask before starting on any project. Whether you're a budding designer or an enthusiastic homeowner looking to revamp your space, this post will provide invaluable insights into our design process.

Defining Your Style: The First Step in Your Design Journey

Style is the heartbeat of every design project. It's the soul that gives life to your space. But how do you define it? It's often easier said than done. That's why we recommend starting with a simple yet crucial question:

1. How would you describe your style?

At the heart of this question is the idea of gathering inspiration. Begin by collecting images, magazine clippings, or Pinterest boards that resonate with you. What draws your eye? Is it the soothing neutrality of a Scandinavian interior or the boldness of mid-century modern design? By analyzing your sources of inspiration, you'll begin to discover the common threads in your design choices.

As you dive deeper into these elements, you'll uncover the why behind your preferences. Maybe it's the sense of tranquility in muted colors or the feel of spacious, sun-soaked rooms. This understanding becomes the cornerstone for creating a style uniquely tailored to your preferences.

Modern, Mediterranean, Mid-Century, Modern Farmhouse, Scandinavian?

Understanding the Purpose: Beyond Aesthetic Appeal

Design isn't merely about beauty; it's about functionality and purpose. To create a space that truly resonates with you, we delve into the core of their intentions:

2. What is the overall goal for this space?

At first glance, this may seem like a straightforward inquiry. However, it opens the door to many considerations. We explore daily routines, envisioning how our clients will live, work, and play in their spaces. We even delve into the seemingly trivial, like the preferred morning coffee spot. Every detail matters, no matter how small.

Why? Because lifestyle informs every aspect of our design, from the choice of materials to the arrangement of furniture. These seemingly inconsequential questions help us eliminate elements that won't serve the client's lifestyle. In the end, it's these details that shape a space into a perfect fit for you.

Image Source: Cantilever

The Love List: What Makes Your Space Feel Like Home

Whether you're remodeling or moving into a new space, it's essential to acknowledge what you love about your current surroundings:

3. What is working for you in your current space?

These elements could range from a cherished heirloom piece to a practical feature that enhances your daily life. Identifying these gems ensures they find a place in your new design, preserving the essence of your old space while embracing the new.

Image Source: Austin Design

The Problem-Solving Mindset: Identifying Pain Points

Just as it's crucial to recognize what works, it's equally important to pinpoint what doesn't:

4. What isn't working for you in your current space?

Maybe it's the need for additional storage, more seating options, or the dream of higher ceilings. Identifying these challenges sets the stage for creative problem-solving during the design process.

Prioritizing Your Desires: The Budget-Friendly Way

Budget and timeline are constraints that every project must consider. To navigate these parameters successfully, you need to determine your main priorities:

5. What are your main priorities for this project?

This question helps you crystallize your vision early on. Whether it's bathing your space in natural light, emphasizing a particular finish, or incorporating a unique material, knowing your priorities ensures you allocate your resources effectively.

Here's why it matters:

Problem: Without clear priorities, your design project can easily veer off course. You might overspend on areas that don't matter as much to you, or miss out on key features you truly desire.

Solution: Identifying your main priorities empowers you to make informed decisions. It ensures that your budget, timeline, and space are all aligned with what matters most to you.

Imagine you're redesigning your living room. Perhaps your top priority is creating a cozy reading nook by the window, flooded with natural light. Or maybe you're passionate about sustainability, and your main focus is sourcing eco-friendly materials.

By pinpointing your main priorities from the outset, you're setting the stage for a design that's not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful and functional. It's the first step in turning your dream space into a reality.

Image Source: DISC

In conclusion, design is a journey, and the path begins with understanding. By asking these fundamental questions, we lay the groundwork for designs that aren't just beautiful but also meaningful and functional. Whether you're a designer or homeowner, we hope this behind-the-scenes look into our process will guide you on your design journey, helping you craft spaces that resonate with your unique style and needs.

xx Paulina