Design Process and FAQ
Can you describe the typical services a interior design firm would provide?
Regardless of the scale and type of project or space, the design process remains consistent for interior designers. The designer needs to come up with a master plan for the project. In order to come up with this plan, the designer must identify and document exactly what needs to be done. This is known as the programming phase. The first step is to understand the client's needs and the scope of the work to be done. Things to take into account in the preliminary meetings are function, preferences, budget and general design direction. The designer must document the space by taking note of its measurements and photograph existing conditions. Once this information has been gathered, the designer will formulate the design plan and propose a budget for the client. Additional meeting or site visit will be necessary to gather all pertinent information. Due to the nature and scale of an architectural interior design project, it is absolutely essential that the designer eliminates as many surprises as possible. Surprises can end up being very costly. It is also important for the designer to foresee any issues that may occur in order to prevent them from happening. This comes with a proper education and experience.
Upon completion of the programming phase of the design process, the designer goes on to specify materials, finishes, furnishings and the equipment to be used in the space. Depending on the scope of the project and its parameters, the designer may need to enlist the assistance of other professionals. Most designers are not licensed architects, and licensed architects or engineers are needed for an approval stamp on the drawings.
When the entire planning process is completed and the project is ready to begin, the designer will help oversee the implementation phase. Regardless of the other professionals involved, it critical that the designer continues to oversee the project to make sure that the design is being executed properly and not compromised.
Who do you normally work for?
Sync Interior Design works on residential and light commercial projects including restaurant and retail design. We have passed the NCIDQ certification and are allied member of the ASID.
How do you charge for your services?
We charge hourly on a sliding scale. The fee is determined by the scale or size of the project. We are willing and able to handle both small and large projects and can design new projects in existing buildings or renovate spaces for new uses or updated appearances.
Will you provide consulting services or professional opinions on projects?
Yes, that is why we are willing to charge hourly, so we can assist our clients in whatever services they feel that they need.
What locations do you work in?
We work in Seattle and the surrounding areas including Bellevue, Kirkland and Redmond. If you have a project a further distance from Seattle please give us a call to discuss possibilities for a working relationship.
If I want to use your firm, how do I get started?
Telephone or email us and we will love to set up a meeting with you to review the scope of your project and listen to your goals and objectives. We can then provide you with a proposal or estimate of hours.