Talie Jane Interiors takes a unique approach to its initial client meetings. The firm refers to the initial Client meeting as a “Discovery Session.”
Like a consultation, the Discovery Session allows Talie Jane to get to know you, your project goal, your tastes and preferences and your budget and timeline.
“The Discovery Session is essential in establishing our relationship with a potential client and understanding their vision,” says Talie Jane. “It forms the basis of our understanding of our Clients and their project and acts as a launching point.”
There are several things Clients can do to prepare for the initial Discovery Session that Talie Jane finds incredibly helpful. Although not necessary, knowing and providing this information allows Talie Jane Interiors to create clear and through proposals, put together the best team suited for the project and generate optimal creative solutions to Client’s design challenges.
Know your scope of work.
Clients should be prepared to discuss the overall scope of work. “This usually includes a tour of the space/spaces to be re-deigned,” says Talie. “It’s fantastic to listen to the ideas and vision our clients have. We hear about design challenges and things that just aren’t working for them, things they like and don’t like, walls they want to remove, concerns about lighting and so much more. We really dive in and get to know how our Clients live within their homes. This allows us to understand if what they are envisioning is truly the best solution. Sometimes it’s not and we offer alternatives.”
Provide plans (if available).
“Sometimes Clients have ‘as-built’ plans or have already started working with an architect, engineer or contractor when we come aboard,” says Talie. “In these cases, we appreciate receiving a set of the plans.” That’s certainly not always the case, however and it’s actually Talie Jane Interiors’ preference to be brought on board before plans are completed so input can be provided and collaboration can include an interior designer.
Discuss a realistic budget and timeline.
It is extremely helpful to understand the overall project budget before getting started. The budget will dictate if the proposed project scope is realistic or if priorities need to be made. “It’s important to have these open and honest conversations from the beginning in order to establish expectations,” says Talie.
Another key discussion point is timing. Talie says, “Construction and design work take time and there’s a process that needs to be followed to ensure success; it’s important that Clients understand a realistic timeframe for the proposed work.”
Have examples of designs you like/don’t like.
Pinterest, Houzz.com, Instagram and even design magazines offer great inspiration. “When Clients put together idea boards or mood boards, is extremely helpful in conveying their design style, color preferences and overall vision for their home,” says Talie. “What I find just as helpful, if not more so, is having Clients include images of design elements they don’t like. Listening to them explain what they like and dislike about the images they’ve selected is invaluable to us as we strive to design a space that’s perfect for them.”
Be flexible and open.
Rarely do projects start and end according to the original plan. Changes happen along the way as walls come down or are built. It’s important to remain flexible and open to the inevitable deviations that take place. That’s why it’s so important to have faith in your Interior Designer. “Trust is so crucial,” says Talie. We trust in our Clients and they trust in us. When that trust is mutual, we see the best, most successful projects.” It’s imperative from the start that our Clients know what to expect.
Contact Talie Jane Interiors at 855-825-4352 to schedule your Discovery Session.
Images:
Feature Image: Photo Credit Brad Scott Photography
“Have Examples” – Pinterest
Piggie Bank – Pinterest
Floor Plan: Copyright Talie Jane Interiors
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