Worth the Wait

People sometimes think a designer can just “whip up something beautiful” with little or no effort. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Design is a process and there are tried and true steps that must be taken to ensure things happen the way they should.

Even before you call a designer, a great deal of thought should be given to the way you’d like your home to feel when it is finished. What inspires you?  Collect some room photos that you like.  Jot down a few adjectives that describe how you want to feel when you are living in your new space.  Your designer will take the time to probe into the way you live and the way you want to live in the new space and if you’ve thought about this ahead of time, it will help your designer get familiar with you and your desires for the project more quickly

Here are the five “Phases of Design” that your professional designer will follow:

1.  “Programming”.  This phase is also where we get up and running and your project is organized.  We’ll want to define the scope of your project, how you use each room and your goals for each space.  A budget will also be created to keep everyone on track.

2.  The next step is called “Schematics”  during which, we create your space plans, finishes are chosen, etc.

3.  Third comes “Design Development”. Drawings and formal presentations are put together.

4.  Next will be the “Contract Documents”. Construction plans are completed and include schedules of all elements in the design like electrical and plumbing, etc. Jobs are put to bid, suppliers and contractors are chosen.

5.  When all plans are settled upon, we move into the fifth phase known as “Contract Administration” which means the implementation of all planning. Procurement schedules are created, orders are placed, construction begins.

All of these phases in the process play a part in the bigger picture. Each should be executed carefully with the end result in mind. So, although it would be nice to “whip up something beautiful”, it really takes a skilled professional to guide the client and the project to a successful conclusion.

Talianko Design Group offers several FREE eBooks on popular design topics including 30 Interior Design Tips for Luxury Homes. Click here to download yours today!

About the Author

Debbie Talianko (Allied ASID, CID) is an accomplished Sierra Madre residential interior designer, speaker and industry mentor whose firm has perfected the design of casually elegant interiors.

A San Diego native who grew up near the cliffs of Point Loma, Talianko received a Diploma with Distinction in Professional Interior Design from Rhodec International in London.

“I love classic design but without all the fuss. I’d define my style as transitional – clean, calm and casual.”

Whether managing a complete home renovation, a formal living room design or a kitchen upgrade, her aesthetic is defined by order and fluidity; incorporating relaxed silhouettes, fine fabrics and traditional or modern furnishings that are meticulously crafted. Her passion for the design process allows her to create consistent results for clients who expect a custom interior that lets them feel like themselves at home.

In 2012, Talianko was elected Chair of Pasadena’s California Home & Kitchen Tour, a showcase, now in it’s 26th year, that features the American Society of Interior Designers’ (ASID) most distinguished designers. She is currently featured as “best interior designer of Pasadena” by KeyInteriorDesigners.com.