While most would think of interior design as a locally provided service, it’s becoming increasingly common for clients to hire out of state for design projects. There’s an equation for optimally providing personalized services from a distance, with efficient ways to streamline this work for an end result that meets (or even exceeds) the quality of a locally managed project. Check out our guide to understanding how destination projects work from a designer’s perspective.
Laying the foundation
Designers get to know their clients at the beginning of every project. It’s important to understand who the clients are, how they will use the space and personal priorities as they form an open line of communication.
“Defining roles and a realistic schedule is integral in ensuring our design meets the needs of the project,” says Alex Yanke of Westbourne Studio. “After a few initial client meetings, on site and remote, we develop a conceptual design that is translated into extremely detailed design documents, including furniture plans, millwork elevations, decorative lighting plans, material or finish schedules and much more. The design documents are organized and consolidated into a package that is shared with the entire team, but we remain in constant contact with the client and contractors to ensure the design is executed as planned. Based on the construction or installation schedule, we determine travel dates to be on site for important benchmarks in the process and to offer quality control. However, we also jump on a FaceTime call whenever necessary for questions big or small.”
Communication is key
When designers are physically away from their home base, maintaining constant contact with clients, contractors, and suppliers becomes crucial. Thanks to technology, designers can leverage video conferencing, virtual presentations, and project management software to ensure clear communication. Regular updates enable stakeholders to stay informed and make informed decisions from wherever they are.
“Technology and communication are our key drivers. We've handled projects in five different states, and let us tell you, it's been a fulfilling experience,” says designer Sam Colamussi of Cola Studios. “Regular communication with our trusted vendors and weekly check-ins with clients are crucial for a project's success. And, of course, we schedule in-person site visits at the project's start, halfway through, and during the final stages. It's important to immerse ourselves in the space!”
Alex concurs; in his case, technology and teamwork are also major factors in executing a successful project, including “assembling a strong and qualified team of architects, contractors, subcontractors, and specialists or consultants.”
Onsite visits remain an integral part of destination projects
Designers still need to gain an in-depth understanding of the space, assess the existing conditions and identify potential challenges. Performing site visits allows for inspiration, collaboration with local contractors and artisans, all while ensuring the project aligns with the client's vision. Usually there will be a site visit at the beginning of the project, as well as throughout.
That said, sometimes virtual services are a better fit, depending on project size and budget. “Before committing to a project, we evaluate the scope of work needed,” shares Sam. “We specialize in complete home makeovers or renovations. But, if it's a smaller project, our virtual design service comes into play, where the client handles the ordering on their own and in their own time. So, what defines our approach? It's a blend of using communication technology, meticulous planning, and empowering our clients so that we can bring our services to all those that need them, and create projects that reflect the local environment.”
The deliverables for destination projects are no different from those executed on the home front
Remote projects demand perhaps an even greater attention to detail, to mitigate the potential physical distance. Planning and preparation can smooth the way. “Creating a comprehensive design map before a project breaks ground and maintaining open channels of communication fosters a seamless design process for our destination projects,” notes Alex. “Often we work with contractors who are surprised with how much detail we offer within our design documents to answer questions before they are ever asked. We apply this forward thinking approach to destination projects so that we avoid unnecessary delays or mistakes. But we also streamline our strategy to focus on providing a signature, bespoke service celebrating what makes each destination project unique.”
From concept to completion, designers are committed to creating spaces that reflect their clients' tastes and meet every functional need. Distance between the design team and the project site doesn’t compromise their commitment to quality. To get the right match for your project, find out which designers take on destination work.
Learn more about Westbourne Studio and book a virtual consultation with Alex Yanke here.
Learn more about Cola Studios and book a virtual consultation with Sam Colamussi and Olya Dmitrieva here.
