If you want to treat your design project like a pro, start with interviewing yourself first. Why? Because that is how designers do it: they begin every design project with a client interview. During this initial visit, both client and designer have an opportunity to determine if they are a good match for each other. This is also the time to determine if the project is viable both in terms of budget, timeline, and expectations. Follow their pattern as you embark on the remodeling of your new house and I guarantee you that, by doing so, you will have CLARITY OF MIND, which is one of my 4 Design Pillars.
Let´s start the process where you are both designer and client. The questions every designer should ask a potential client are divided in Lifestyle, Budget and Timeline, and Design.
LIFESTYLE QUESTIONS
A designer needs to know how you and your family operates in order to come up with a proposal that works for you. In order to do that, it pays to take time to talk about your routines, personalities, hobbies, personal preferences, family dynamics, including issues that trigger problems around the house. If the room you will be remodeling is a gathering place for the whole family, then you definitely want to consider what makes your kids fight with each other and integrate practical solutions in your design. To illustrate my point: if they consistently fight about how one takes more couch space than the other, consider using comfy chairs instead of a large sofa. If the problem revolves around someone always blocking the tv, focus on finding the right location for it. Get my point? It may feel weird to answer some of these questions yourself, but trust me here. It will bring the Clarity of Mind required for a design that actually works. Do remember that you must adapt your design to your lifestyle and not the other way around.
You will find more about Lifestyle Questions in this blog post and make sure you download my Free Guide (click here). The worksheet included there will help you come up with 2 very important lists: the “Absolutely must have it” list and the “I would be the happiest person if I have it” list. You will also be prompted to prioritize them and to write down your whys (read all about here).
The Lifestyle questions I always use are:
BUDGET AND TIMELINE QUESTIONS
The following questions are always tricky. People don´t usually like to disclose their budget fearing that the contractor will spend every single penny or that their full amount will be way above the real cost. Some may be embarrassed that their budget will be irrealistic. The good thing is that you are on both sides of the table and you can be honest with yourself. I mean, I hope you are being honest with yourself.
The questions to answer are:
DESIGN AND DECOR QUESTIONS
The Design questions will most likely take longer to complete. Answer truthfully and if you are not sure about your responses, take a break and come back to it. Pay special attention to questions 1 and 2 and try to put into words what you see in your mind, even if you don´t have the “right” descriptive words. Who cares? This is your interview, your work document, yours to use and yours to take advantage of.
My name's Jessica Velazquez.
As a coach for first-time homebuyers, I set them up with an actual plan and a timeline for making their needs, and even their wishes happen.
Imagine how great it would feel to open the door to your new house, YOUR VERY FIRST HOUSE, and feel proud of it. You love the floors, and the color on the walls is exactly how you had envisioned it.
Your new furniture fits perfectly in the new space and it matches with your favorite heirloom pieces.
The kitchen is to die for; it makes you want to be there. Everything has its place!
The patio is inviting and you can already picture your family and friends having a great time. And your bedroom! That bedroom is an oasis, your refuge from the day. It makes you feel relaxed and energised.