Professional Interior Design Process
At Angela Chang Design Studio, we structure our design process with essential design principles.
These crucial steps help set clearer goals and expectations, increase the quality and efficiency, and reduce miscommunications and revisions.
"The role of the designer is that of a good, thoughtful host anticipating the needs of his guests."
- Charles Eames
Designer, Architect and Filmmaker
Our ultimate goal is to make our clients happy in their transformed spaces.
Our Design Process
A Step-by-step guide
on how we create your
dream space
01
"Client Questionnaire" - 15 minutes
We ask all our potential clients to please fill out the Client Questionnaire which was created to identify your project's scope, objectives, and preferences. After completing the form, you will receive a request to schedule your free 30-minute Introductory Call.
02
"Introductory Call" - 30 minutes
This free call with our Designer will give us a better understanding of you and the needs of your project. We will discuss your answers to the Client Questionnaire and for you to ask us any questions you may have. We want to make sure we are a good fit for your project.
03
Pre-Project Programming - 1 week
After the Introductory Call, there is a non-refundable consultation fee: $500 for FF&E-only projects, and $800 for project scopes more than furniture and decorations. We then prepare a "Look-n-Feel" concept package for your project and a draft of your Scope of Work for Design Agreement. This information-gathering period usually takes about a week from receiving the consultation fee. We then book your "Initial Consultation" at your convenience.
04
"Initial Consultation" - 60 to 90 minutes
This meeting with our Designer can be held over the Internet or on-site at your location. We will review the "Look-n-Feel" package, confirm your scope of work, and finalize your Design Agreement. We recommend that all decision-makers for the project attend this meeting so that everyone can be on the same page from the start.
05
Contracting - 3 to 5 days
After the Initial Consultation, our Designer will make revisions to the Design Agreement for the Client's signature. Once the Design Agreement is singed along with the deposit of the Design Fee, we will move into the Schematic Design phase. The non-refundable Initial Consultation fee will then be credited into the overall Design Fee (credit equivalent to 5 hours for FF&E projects, and 8 hours for projects' scopes are more than just furniture and decorations).
06
Schematic Design & Design Development - 4 to 6 weeks each
The Designer will work with you continuously to refine all aspects of design: Interior Architectural Elements, Cabinetry/Custom Millwork details, Color Schemes, Finishes, Furniture, Light Fixtures, and Appliances/Equipment. At the end of both the Schematic & Design phases, the Designer will present a set of working drawings with all design selections for the Client's review and written approval. Revisions will likely take additional time.
07
Construction Documentation - 8 to 10 weeks
We will prepare basic Construction Documents for design purposes and communication between trades. This may include Door & Hardware Schedule, Demolition/Base Plan, Construction/Floor Plan, Reflected Ceiling Plan, Power & Communication Plan, Finish Plan, Furniture Plan, Interior Elevations, and Interior Architectural Specifications. These drawings and specifications ensure the design intent and integrity over the life of your project. The Designer will submit the final Construction Documents for Client's review and written approval.
08
Furniture, Fixture & Equipment (FF&E) - 4 to 6 weeks
We will finalize your FF&E Specifications for Product Procurement. The Designer will check lead time and pricing, then produce proposals for your review and written approval. We want to ensure everything is available and will deliver on time for your project. This is when we go shopping! We also work with local vendors providing furniture receiving, item inspection, storing, white-glove delivery, and professional installation. For commercial projects, we can help with the furniture dealer bidding process and then work with the selected furniture dealers.
09
Construction Administration - lengths vary by projects
During construction, we will review contractor-prepared schedules, shop drawings, submittals, and RFIs. The Designer will coordinate with project consultants when necessary. The Designer also attends job site meetings to observe the quality of work at the site to determine if they are in conformance with the Designer's Construction Documents and design intent.
10
Installation & Completion - 1 day to 1 week
At the time construction is substantially complete, Designer will prepare and issue a punch list of items needing correction or modification by the General Contractor. We also arrange and oversee Furniture Installation to ensure everything arrives correctly and is placed at the right location. Finally, Angela Chang Design Studio will prepare Completion Documents which includes the final set of Construction Documents and the FF&E Package.
