Turner 13 Architect's

Interior design process

Our interior design process, step by step

A clear, collaborative process takes your project from first conversation to final styling, with agreed deliverables and approvals at every stage.

Colour swatches held over interior design blueprints during the design process

Seven stages

From first conversation to handover

The same structure applies to residential and commercial projects; we scale each stage to the size of your space.

01

Initial consultation

A relaxed conversation, in person or by video, about your space, goals, style, budget and timeline. We explain how we work and recommend a scope.

Outcome: You receive a written proposal with scope, fees and next steps.

02

Understanding your requirements

We visit and measure the site, photograph existing conditions and dig into routines, storage needs and must-haves through a detailed brief.

Outcome: An agreed design brief that guides every decision.

03

Space planning & concept development

Layout options test furniture, circulation and storage. Alongside, we build a concept: mood, palette, materials and the story of the space.

Outcome: Space plans and a concept presentation for your feedback.

04

Material & furniture selection

With physical samples in hand, we select finishes, furniture, lighting and fabrics, balancing look, durability and budget.

Outcome: A specification and itemised cost plan.

05

Design presentation & revisions

We present the developed design with drawings and visuals where appropriate. Agreed revision rounds refine the details before sign-off.

Outcome: Final approved design and drawing package.

06

Project execution & coordination

Where included in your scope, we coordinate contractors and suppliers, track orders and visit site to ensure the design is built as drawn.

Outcome: Regular progress updates and quality checks.

07

Final styling & handover

We install, style and complete a final walkthrough with a snag list. You receive care guides and supplier and warranty information.

Outcome: A finished space, ready to enjoy.

Timeline expectations

How long does each stage take?

Indicative ranges only: your proposal includes a schedule specific to your project. Decisions made promptly keep things moving.

Indicative interior design project timeline by stage
StageTypical durationWhat affects it
Consultation & brief1 to 2 weeksDepends on scheduling a site visit and gathering existing information.
Space planning & concept2 to 4 weeksLonger for whole homes or multi-floor commercial spaces.
Selections & detailed design3 to 6 weeksIncludes sampling, revisions and cost planning.
Procurement & worksVaries widelyDriven by contractor availability and furniture lead times; often the longest stage.
Styling & handover1 to 2 weeksFinal installation, styling and snagging.

FAQs

Process and timeline FAQs

More answers on fees, materials and customisation are on our FAQs page.

It depends on scope. A single-room refresh may take a few weeks of design time; a full home or office usually involves several months from concept to handover, especially where custom joinery or made-to-order furniture is involved. We give you a project-specific schedule in your proposal. See our interior design process for typical stage durations.

The most common causes are late decisions, long lead times on imported or made-to-order items, site conditions discovered during work, and approvals from building management. We plan around these early and keep you updated if anything changes.

Your proposal states the number of revision rounds at each stage. In practice, involving you early means changes are usually refinements rather than redesigns.

We can coordinate contractors, suppliers and site visits so the design is built as drawn. The level of project management is agreed in your proposal, from design-only to full coordination through to handover.

We complete a final walkthrough and snag list, style the space, and give you a care guide for finishes along with supplier and warranty details.

Begin your project

Ready for step one?

Book your initial consultation and we’ll map out the process for your space.