The Design Process

Initial Consultation

Through a preliminary meeting Recherché will address the following:

Face to Face Interaction is Paramount
This is a personal relationship. Do we resonate with mutual respect? It is important that you feel educated and listened to regarding the design parameters.

Project Requirements
Seeing the space in person and through joint analysis helps in understanding the work to be undertaken.

Conveying Ideas
Through visual representation we communicate as a team what your preferred aesthetic is and how that could be represented in the physical design of your space. This is a “streaming process” where concepts are initially conceived of to be later developed.

Scope
How do you personally live? What do you want to spend on your project and what is the timeline?

Agreement & Retainer

Moving Forward

To commence design work a signed agreement that pertains to your project and a monetary retainer are required.

Development of Design

Space Assessment

Initial measurement of space to create technical drawings of your existing space. These drawings will be used as a base to define the space and input plans for your future design, be it a kitchen cabinet layout, plumbing designation, lighting and electrical plans, material layout or a furniture space plan.

Continuation of Technical Drawings

Drawings are used to convey work to be done to the contractor/team and to have visual understanding of what the project will look like. These drawings consist of to-scale plans, up-right elevations, and possible 3-D renderings of an entire space.

Product Selection

All the elements that will create the visual beauty of your project will be selected and samples will be procured for your approval and contractor understanding. These products could include but are not limited to flooring, cabinets, plumbing, tile/grout, counters, lighting, hardware, color/paint/finish, furniture, textiles, carpets, trim, art, and accessories.

Meetings and Preparation for Meetings

It is preferred to meet bi-weekly for fluidity. Each meeting will take a minimum of 1.5 hours and could last up to 5 hours. Meetings may include the following:

  1. Review plans and show initial finishes for space. Depending on the scope of the project this phase could take 3-5 separate meetings.
  2. Select lighting, plumbing and appliances at showroom. 1-2 meetings.
  3. Refine selections and price via vendors.
  4. Review design elements and gain client approval.
  5. Contractor Book/Installation Guidelines. Communication is prepared to convey all the details to the design team including drawings, technical data, product specifications/installations, finish selections and application.
  6. Vetting of contractor for proposed work. 1-3 meetings.
  7. Procurement of specialty installers such as wallpaper installers, faux finishers, welders, upholsterers, window treatment fabricators and carpenters to name a few.
  8. Preparation of proposals for ordering of product with client’s approval and payment. Follow-up payment for freight, receiving and delivery comes after delivery of goods.
  9. Order of product by designer.
  10. Actualize project and product installation. This is a lengthy process. Typically, the hired contractor takes charge at this juncture with consistent communication with the designer and project owner.
  11. Project management and follow up with team with onsite design assessment. Depending on scope of work 2 – 7 meetings with and without client.
  12. Project administration by tracking of product, reconnaissance of damaged goods with claims and scheduled deliveries.
  13. Meetings with team/client to assess work and finish application.
  14. Installation of furniture and soft goods such as window treatments, rugs, accessories, and art.

 

Purchasing

Designer Exclusive Vendors

Recherché has multitudes of designer exclusive vendors to customize your selections with pricing and materials that are not available to the public. Due to the individual nature of this type of purchasing the designer compiles the specifics of your selections, organizing them in a fluid purchasing stream with presented proposals, purchase ordering, tracking of product, receiving and delivery.

Organization, Communication, & Clarity

Purchasing organized and handled by Recherché retains organization, communication with installers, up to date back order availability, clarity in customization, damage control and filing of claims, common place receiving/storage and professional delivery.

Additional Resources

Retail chains are also utilized for desired items and can be ordered by the homeowner or Recherché.

Project Management & Expert Coordination

Contractor and vendor communication that convey the design details is paramount. Written documentation follow up of product orders/arrivals, installation details, real life application of product and problem solving are all part of moving your project forward. Recherché is your personal advocate ensuring that the design intention comes to fruition and according to plan.

Furniture Installation

Whether you are solely furnishing your home or remodeling/finishing, the furniture installation requires expertise. Utilizing professional receiver/delivery personnel, Recherché works in tandem to perfectly coordinate and arrange every new and original piece within your space. Rugs are placed, furniture is placed, and every piece is adjusted to purposefully actualize the final stages of your complete design.

Project Completion

Don’t forget the art and accessories. Be it personal treasures and photographs or pieces curated by Recherché, every item is placed to achieve its optimal harmony and balance. Recherché utilizes local galleries, creating art collections that personally reflect you, represent true artists and different genres, adding that special touch that will truly take your home to the next level. Utilizing professionals your personal gallery will be placed with care and precision. Your needs will be unique to you and your history.