Kira Krümm - Interior Design

After you have successfully hired your interior designer and general contractor, it is time for the team to get started. You will have a major advantage because you are working with professionals who understand the process and have the knowledge, skills and sources to implement your project. Your interior designer and contractors will work closely through the design development phase. Selections of materials must be made, and designs must be perfected before the project can begin.

Selecting your flooring and finishes

The finishes and surfaces in an interior are commonly referred to as backgrounds. These backgrounds include important items such as flooring, cabinetry, and millwork. The types of materials selected will be determined by the design direction for your interior. Your designer will work with you to develop your concept and lead you towards appropriate options.

Determining your flooring is one of the first selections you will need to make. The flooring will have a major impact on the livability, comfort and look of your interior. Natural stone, porcelain tile and wood flooring are all installed differently. Therefore, it is important to determine, early in the process, the type of flooring you will be using in order to make the necessary preparations to the job site. Your interior designer and industry professionals will introduce you to all of the latest materials available. “It is critical to truly listen to our client’s desires and consider the practical aspects, as well as the aesthetic characteristics, when making flooring selections,” remarks Ken Davis from the Interiors Workshop.

Develop design specifications

In most cases your project will call for custom cabinetry and millwork. This may include, cabinetry, custom furnishings such as built-in units, and additional details such as mouldings and paneling for walls and ceilings. These items are typically custom-designed specifically for your project.

Your cabinetry company will work closely with your interior designer to produce the design drawings and develop finish samples for your approval before production can begin.This process takes vision, creativity and time. “We strive to create unique products that fulfill both the visual necessities of the overall project design, as well as the functional requirements of the client.”, states Chris Hylemon from Hyland Custom Cabinetry.

Implement interior work / project management

Once selections have been made and designs are approved, it is time to commence the contracted work. Your interior designer will see the process through to ensure the work accurately follows the design and your expectations. Your general contractor will direct the process and ensure quality and completion. This requires knowledge of the design-build process, proper coordination and the right people to complete the project successfully. A professional contractor will follow the project closely to ensure value and on-time completion. “We take a professional approach and pride ourselves with providing quality and achieving our deadlines,” says Kevin Rae from Specialty Builder’s Services.

It takes skill and expertise to successfully manage and direct the interior design and renovation process. Start with objectives and follow a plan. With the right team of professionals, you will have the interior you desire.

As I have always said, my clients can afford to go anywhere in the world, but when they choose to stay home, I knowI have succeeded.