Designer's Diary: Preparing for a Site Visit...

Today as I was collecting boxes of wallpaper and door hardware from suppliers, I reflected on the number of people who ask me how I manage a project based in Goulburn when I'm based in Canberra.  It got me thinking that as an Interior Designer there are a few key traits that make working on 'out of town' projects possible.  

1. Being highly organised...  I have lists and checklists for everything.  Amongst other things, today's list included collecting wallpaper and door hardware to take to site.  It along with all the relevant files, drawings and samples is neatly packed and ready for the trip tomorrow.  

2. A well documented Design Brief... a few key meetings up front ensure that both the client and I are on the same page.  More time spent at the briefing stage results in a clearer vision for both parties.  I understand what they want and they understand what I'm going to deliver.  Of course there are always design decisions that need to be made as we go and that is where using ArchiCAD bridges the gap between us.  

Today I needed to convey a concept for a timber wall to my client via email so I generated some 3D sketches and a quick 3D model to enable to client to visualise the concept.  While these are not high quality 3D visuals for client presentations, they do enable a concept to be confirmed quickly and easily when there is a good client relationship established.

3. Relationships are key... The most important factor for me is building relationships with my clients, tradesmen and suppliers so that are all working together to the achieve the desired outcome.  We all communicate regularly to ensure to keep the project on track.  Site visits like the one I'm heading on tomorrow, are about once a month.  The builder, client and I work through any questions that are outstanding and make decisions quickly or document things for follow up.  Now that the project is seeing finishes being installed, it's an exciting time as Interior Designer.  The months of planning starts to take shape on site and the clients begin to see what you've visualised for their home.

Tomorrow I get to enjoy being an Interior Designer revealing the beautiful finishes that are going to make my clients new house their home.  I get to see the beautiful tiles I selected months ago at Rivoland, and meticulously set out by the tiler. I get to see the driveway and gate pillars I shared here in real life.  I get to discuss design details with the builder, landscaper and client.   Everything I do with a client here in Canberra... only this time it's in Goulburn.

Oh and if you've guessed from this quote... number 4. I love a challenge.


I look forward to sharing more on this amazing new home as the build progresses.