Stage 3 - The design intent

Stage 3 - The Design Intent

Now we move onto the 3rd stage of my 4-step design process. This is possibly my favourite part and where the creativity really starts.

Stage 3 - The Design Intent

This document is both visually directional and information led; a full picture of how you intend to design for the project.

Taking the key words from the design brief and all of the requirements into account, we compile images and inspiration that convey those words and needs.

These can be images of rooms, as well as materials, textures, furniture, lighting and colour schemes that fit the design brief.

Gaining Inspiration from Your Surroundings

Colour plays a pivotal role within a design scheme. It has a huge impact on mood and emotion; therefore, the palette is often directly informed by the feeling the client wants to have when using a room.

For a calm scheme, you may want to lean into a neutral palette. For a more lively feel, you can add brighter colours. Consider whether you want highly saturated colours or more toned-down hues. Think about accent colours, even within a neutral scheme.

Knowing When to Gently Push

Interior designers are employed for their expertise, and while our role is to guide and support our clients, I also believe we should gently push our clients a little and open their minds up with our knowledge.

This could take the form of encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone or to consider something they have never thought about before.