Though it is always best to have the opportunity to meet in person during design projects, it is entirely possible to have a productive, positive, and successful experience designing virtually.

When considering how the design process has changed, many things have actually stayed the same: prior to COVID-19, I was often communicating ideas, drawings, and concepts digitally through email; I was familiar with brainstorming with clients who lived out of the area over FaceTime; and I definitely had more than one meeting with suppliers and manufacturers’ reps over Zoom or Skype.

These experiences, unbeknownst to me at the time, prepared me for the shift that has taken place as quarantining and social distancing have become part of the process. I am currently meeting with clients in person (with face coverings, social distancing, and other safety measures in place), but have maintained my virtual services for those clients wishing to have a fully virtual experience, as well as for those clients who are out of my local area.

I’ll give you a bit of a behind the scenes, play by play of how a virtual design experience would go:

Virtual Consultations

(for those interested in consultations only, and not a full design concept)

The first step would be a phone call to discuss the general topic of the upcoming consultation and to determine the date and time for the 30 or 60 minute session to be held over FaceTime or Zoom. Any helpful inspiration photos that the clients have collected would be sent to me prior to the consultation.
During the consultation, the client would show me the space to be discussed and ask any questions they may have. For example, if a client is looking to update their furniture arrangement, they could show me the space, provide me with any necessary measurements on the spot, and I would then provide my recommendations.
After the consultation, I would provide a summary of our discussion, with any decisions and specific selections listed in detail. This would be sent via email.

Design Concepts

The first step would again be an initial phone call to discuss the scope of the project, including the general goals of the new design.
A virtual consultation would happen next, so that I could see the space(s) in full and have a more in-depth discussion with the clients about the desired changes. Measurements would be provided at this point, and discussion of the desired style and color palette as well. Inspiration photos would be shared with me at this stage.
My next step would be to design the layout of the space and create design concepts with my recommended materials, fixtures, and furnishings (usually two different options). This presentation would be sent to the clients via email, and followed up with a phone call to discuss.
After receiving feedback from the clients, any necessary revisions would be made and the presentation adjusted. All available physical samples of finishes and fabrics would be sent to the clients for review.
Once the layout and selections were finalized, I would put together a spreadsheet of selections with source information for the clients or their contractor. All drawings would have detailed notes to ensure the design is implemented properly.
During the execution of the project, I would be available to meet virtually with the clients, the contractors, and tradespeople to confirm details and answer any questions.
Once the project is complete, there would be a virtual meeting for me to see the end result and celebrate with my clients.

Despite the changes that have taken place in this industry, much of the design experience remains the same. The virtual process can still be a fun, transformative adventure. There’s just a little more distance involved.

Are you interested in a virtual consultation? Let’s chat!