Planning For Your Project: A Checklist to Getting Started

Making plans to build a new home? Exploring a home renovation? Or maybe you have a workspace that needs to function better. Where do you begin to make sure that you reach your design goals and ideal aesthetic? How do you not forget or miss anything? Whether you are the project manager for your project or working with an Interior Designer, check out these steps to kickstart your project detailing. If you are working with an Interior Designer, these details and questions should naturally be part of the design process and would be in-depth conversations that you would discuss with the Interior Designer.

Check out this article to read more from someone’s account of taking on their home renovation project.

First, get inspired…Did someone say mood board?

Begin exploring materials, finishes, styles, and products that interest you. You can organize your mood boards by room, or category (cabinets, lighting fixtures, paint colors, etc.). An inspiration board/mood board allows you to gather and visualize ideas in one place. It serves as a tangible representation of the aesthetic, tone, and style you want to achieve in a project. Engaging in this process can stimulate creativity. It encourages you to explore new ideas, experiment with different combinations, and think outside the box. The act of visually expressing concepts can spark innovative thinking for the project and serves as an excellent communication tool. Individuals can convey their vision to collaborators, clients, or team members. This visual representation can be more effective than verbal descriptions alone, fostering a shared understanding of the desired outcome.

Secondly, think through and answer these questions:

1. Why are you focused on this project? 
2. What problem(s) are you trying to solve through this project? 
3. What do you need throughout this process? 
4. What will be a win(s) for you at the end of this project?
5. Do you have a style preference for this work? (Such as modern, traditional, minimalist, etc.)
6. What do you want to achieve with this space? (Feel free to acknowledge any inspiration/ideas you have.)
7. What is your investment threshold for the project?
   

Lastly, think through and answer these questions:

1. What is the design and planning process for your project?
2. Confirm the timeline (acknowledge together if there is a range/flexibility with the timing)
3. Confirm the ideal investment range and contingency budget.
4. Who will your project/build team be? (other sub-contractors like a plumber, electrician, carpenter, flooring supplier, etc. (depending on the scope of work) 
5. When and how you will communicate together and how often updates will be given?
6. Review and confirm any contracts for your project. Before finalizing, ensure all project details, timelines, responsibilities, and fees are clearly outlined. 
7. Are there outstanding questions or any concerns on either side? Any additional details that need to be discussed?

As you’re making this decision to officially move forward with the project, it’s important to consider: How do you feel in this planning? What industry professionals could support and lead you with the project? If the above details are coming together well and you feel confident in your detail, then you are on a great path to a successful project! If you have questions, doubts, or even red flags, address those feelings, before you move forward.

Have more questions? Want to discuss a potential project? Go here to contact the team at Reflect Interiors! 

We wish you the best on your interior design journey!