Planning a new project? That’s exciting! Whether it’s a new home build from the ground up, a renovation or a furniture and decor project, there’s thought that should go into any one of these endeavours. To get your project off on the right foot, and make the most of your investment, we’ve put together some key elements to think about, from financials to aesthetic and everything in between.

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1. Budget

This is THE most important aspect in moving forward on a new project. Having an understanding of your budget is critical in the overall direction because $50,000 for a kitchen renovation is incredibly different than $100,000. Budget numbers help create a path, determine scope and can also establish the right fit for the team. It’s important to understand what can and con’t be done within your budget number and manage expectations right from the start. Determining what that amount is prior to the project commencing, and being honest about it with your team is essential.

2. Aesthetic

While every designer wishes they had mind reading capabilities, discerning a clients style is also necessary in moving to the next step. The aesthetic and budget for a mid century modern room is different than that of an eclectic design style, and a mix of high and low. Having an understanding of the aesthetic of preferred team member is also helpful in moving through this stage successfully. Gathering images of style, preference, and an overall look and feel on platforms such as Pinterest will help determine a direction in order for your team to move forward with confidence and efficiency.

3. Talk it Out

Having a healthy discussion with your significant other is essential in creating alignment in the direction you both are headed, as well as your expectations for the overall look, budget, timelines and aesthetic. If you share the same taste and thoughts on the key elements, excellent! If you find some differences, that’s ok too. It’s better to be prepared at the onset than to have surprises along the way, and being completely clear with your team will ensure all are considered in the planning stages.

4. Teamwork makes the dreamwork

Having the right group of people working on behalf of you is another important element in the design process. Architect, contractor/ builder and designer must work in a cohesive way in order to bring your dream home to life. Gather recommendations from friends or family members, interview a shortlist and hire based on the comfort level of who you feel will do the best job according to your budget, expectations and overall fit.

5. Understand the timeframe

Setting a realistic expectation for the timing of completion is important when embarking on a new design project. The design process for furniture alone takes 6-8 weeks depending on the size of the project. Add 4 months (sometimes 6!) for furniture orders and you're on your way towards 8 months for completion. For renovations or new builds, an honest conversation with contractors and trades is essential, so all are on the same page prior to getting started.

6. Dose up on patience, trust & decisiveness

Having all of these under your belt as you move into a project will save time and money. It’s as simple as that. Understanding costs, knowing your style and selecting a great team will all together yield a positive experience. The design | build | renovation process is not a straight line, it’s an organic process with many ups and downs, curves and road blocks. There will be things that go wrong, and unexpected situations will come up, however having trust in your team and assisting with quick decision making will provide you with the best possible result.

There is a lot to consider when starting an interior design project, and the process can be overwhelming. Our goal at Nyla Free Designs is to work alongside our clients, offering a streamlined process to create the home, or room of your dreams, 100% tailored to your lifestyle, aesthetic and budget.

If you have questions about our process, we’d love to share more about how we work, and the benefit an interior designer brings. Get in touch if you’re considering a large or small project now or in the future!

Interested to learn more about the value a designer brings? Read “Who’s Driving Your Design Project?”

Feeling like you need to learn more about your home and how you live in it, in order to determine next steps? Download our Free Workbook Understanding Your Home: How You Live & What You Love.