OUR DESIGN PROCESS

Every client is unique. Not just their lifestyle and what they want, but also the way they wish to work with an interior designer.

A GUIDE TO THE DESIGN PROCESS

I offer a flexible interior design service that can be as simple as a pair of curtains or as involved as knocking two rooms into one, or installing a new kitchen or bathroom. Every project starts with a friendly chat to understand your needs, followed by ideas, clear quotations, and practical planning.

With a focus on sustainable interiors, I like to make the most of what you already have and sourcing thoughtfully chosen materials. From organising trades to final installation and styling, I take care of the details so your home feels both beautiful and personal.

INITIAL CHAT

I like to start with a relaxed chat on the phone and talk through what you’re looking for — whether it’s a new pair of curtains, a full kitchen redesign, or something in between.

We’ll discuss your style preferences, practical needs, budget, and timescales.

It’s also a chance for me to understand how sustainability and reuse can play a role in your project, whether that means repurposing existing pieces or choosing eco-friendly materials.

HOME VISIT

I can then visit your home to take measurements, photos, and a good look at what’s already there.

Don’t worry if your place is cluttered, or the interior is dated. I am not judgemental and I certainly won’t look down my nose at your home. In fact, seeing your house in its ‘everyday’ condition, will be far more helpful. I can see where you might need help, say, in terms of storage.

I will want to discuss your likes and dislikes, so some preparation from you beforehand – magazine cuttings or a Pinterest board – will be useful to help convey your thoughts.

Often, existing furniture, fittings, or finishes can be given a new lease of life, so I’ll explore ways to reuse or refresh rather than replace. I’ll also note the natural light, layout, and features that could influence the design.

DESIGN CONCEPTS

From there, I’ll put together some design ideas to bring the vision to life. This might be digital mood boards, sketches, or simple layouts depending on the scale of the project.

A design concept will show you how colours, textures, and finishes could work together — always with a focus on sustainable, thoughtful choices.

I’ll talk these through with you so we can refine the direction together. The goal is to create an eventual look that reflects your personality and style.

I am not a pushy sales person, so I will leave you to mull everything over in your own time.

cost estimate

Once we’ve agreed on the design approach, I’ll prepare an estimate that outlines the costs involved. This will be tailored to the scale of your project — whether it’s fabric and wallpaper, fitted cabinetry, or a new bathroom.

I’ll break things down clearly so you know exactly what’s included and where your budget is going.

If tradespeople are required, I will obtain prices from them for the work.

PLANNING & QUOTATION

When you’re happy with ideas and cost estimate, I’ll move into planning the details and detailed quotation.

For a smaller project this could simply mean choosing fabrics and finishes, while for larger projects it might involve specifying kitchens, bathrooms, or flooring.

I’ll source products and materials, focusing on sustainable suppliers or items with good longevity, and will provide options that work within your agreed budget.

Once everything is chosen, I will then provide a detailed quotation.

ORGANISING WORK

Where trades are needed — decorators, curtain makers, kitchen fitters, or builders for light works — I can help coordinate and brief them so the work runs smoothly.

My role is to make sure the practical side matches the design vision and everything stays on track.

If you live on the mainland, then I can have virtual calls with you, and send videos of the progress.

INSTALLATION & STYLING

Finally comes the installation stage. This might be as simple as decorating a room and hanging curtains or as involved as installing a new bathroom or kitchen.

Once the main work is complete, I’ll add finishing touches and styling, making sure the space feels cohesive and lived-in rather than staged.

Reused and repurposed items often add extra character here.

Handover & aftercare

When everything’s in place, I’ll walk through the finished space with you to check you’re happy with every detail. I can also give advice on caring for natural or sustainable materials so they last.

I like to keep in touch afterwards too, in case you’d like to build on the project in the future.

A selection of curtain pole finials and paint charts in teal green and brown.

CREDIT: Walcot House Poles

A bed with natural linen bedding in a floral design in greens and pinks.

CREDIT: Designers Guild

A bed with a large headboard upholstered in an orange printed linen, with matching cushions and white bedlinen.

CREDIT: Linwood Fabrics