The interior design process, from first conversation to construction
Designing a custom home or substantial remodel is a collaboration. These nine stages give the work a clear shape, from reviewing plans while the home is still on paper to supporting your builder during construction. Some phases overlap, and that is by design: each decision informs the next.
Nine stages of the Refined Designs process
- 01
First Conversation
We talk about your home, where you are in the process, what you want to accomplish and how I can support the project. Some people come to me with a lot on paper, some with an architect already drawing, and some with an existing home they are trying to see differently. Together we define scope and make sure Refined Designs is the right fit.
- 02
Agreement + Retainer
Ready to get started
Once scope is defined, I prepare a Professional Design Services Agreement. With the agreement signed and the retainer received, the project is underway.
- 03
Plan Review & Space Planning
I visit the construction site or existing home when appropriate and review the plans for flow, clearances, furniture placement, storage, sightlines, natural light and the relationships between spaces. On a remodel, this is often where we discover what should actually change. The goal is to identify opportunities before moving into detailed design.
- 04
Design Development
Here the spaces themselves take shape: floor plan recommendations, space planning, cabinetry layouts and the inspiration you bring to the project. Kitchens are planned around how you cook and gather, primary suites around the morning sequence, and storage around the way your household actually lives.
- 05
Design Direction
We establish a cohesive direction for the whole home: material palette, cabinetry, lighting, architectural details and overall character. Decisions inform one another, so the design evolves as we go while staying connected to the larger vision. That is what keeps each room related to the next.
- 06
Selections & Specifications
Interior and exterior finishes, fixtures and materials are selected and documented with manufacturer, model, finish, size, quantity and location as appropriate. Cabinetry and millwork are detailed, and lighting and electrical are coordinated with the plan. The specification is shared with you, your general contractor, vendors and trades for pricing, ordering and installation.
- 07
Drawings & Renderings
Detailed drawings, wall elevations, cross sections and 3D renderings let you see the space with your selections before it is built. They are also how design intent is communicated to your builder, cabinet fabricator, vendors and trades, so everyone works from the same picture.
- 08
Vendor Sourcing, Bidding & Coordination
When a general contractor is in place, I collaborate with their established trades and vendors. When sourcing is needed, I can help identify vendors, obtain pricing and compare options. Throughout, I work within your project budget and established allowances, considering price, lead times and availability. Final construction cost is set by your builder and trades.
- 09
Construction Support
During construction I make site visits, review specifications, answer trade questions and collaborate with your builder, architect and project team. My role is to help carry and clarify the design intent as the home is built, which matters most for owners who cannot be on site every week.
Stages 05 through 07 typically overlap. Direction, selections and drawings move together, each refining the others.
When should I get my designer involved?
The earlier, the better.
For new construction, bring me in while the home is still on paper, ideally while you are working with your architect or residential designer and before plans are finalized. Window placement, cabinetry layouts and lighting are far easier to get right in a drawing than in framing.
For a renovation, starting before construction gives time to rethink the space, develop the design, make selections, obtain pricing and coordinate details before demolition begins.
Your part in the process
You do not need to know every answer. My role is to narrow the options, explain the considerations and guide each decision so it feels clear rather than overwhelming.
Your role is to share how you live and what matters to you, review what I send, ask questions whenever something is unclear, and give approvals in time to keep the project moving with your builder's schedule.
Questions about the design process
- How long does the design process take?
- It depends on the size of the home, the project stage and how quickly decisions are reviewed. Timelines are set together at the start, based on your builder's schedule.
- Do the phases happen in strict order?
- Mostly, but design is iterative. Design direction, selections and drawings often overlap, and a decision in one area can refine another.
- Can you join after plans are finished?
- Yes. Earlier is better, but I regularly join projects with finished plans or homes already under construction and adapt the process to where you are.
Planning a custom home or major renovation?
Send the location, the type of project and where you are in the process. If it is a fit, we will talk through what the design work would look like.