This is always a difficult and sensitive balance for any project . We all get rather excited during the design stages but the reality of realistic costs , whilst allowing for the unforeseen and the inevitable design tweaks along the way , can test the boundaries of the original budget . We ’ ve had amazing clients who understand that their redesign wishes mid-project will always be accommodated where possible , but this will inevitably come at a cost financially and possibly stretch the schedule . We are prepared to do whatever it takes to deliver what the client wants so good communication , along with accurate up to date costs , is vital .
Where do you start with interior styling for a home that you won ' t be living in ?
Clients lead by sharing the visualisation for what fundamentally is their dream home . We create mood boards both digitally and physically , sourcing materials from the sample library at our office and showroom in Whitstable .
It ’ s a creative process and part of our working methodology . Research and resources that have always been with us in the beginning such as printed magazines and trade shows , are mixed now with social media and content that is shared by others . Social media is such a powerful tool in this respect , some of our favourite brands and designers are sharing their ideas and inspirations everyday . Continuous creative flow feeds into a current mood and we can guide clients , help them choose . We enjoy and relish the opportunity to try something new and push the boundaries of our previous design , which makes it a truly exciting experience to be shared with our clients . Remember , this is a once in a lifetime experience , as an example of joining these two properties , so it needs to be special . We treat it as if it was our own home , after all part of us is in that build too .
What were the common mistakes that you managed to avoid ?
Refurbishing a property presents different challenges compared to building a new development . Extra time should always be planned into the schedule and surveying the build you are undertaking is key . Using our experience and the advice of experts helps plan for those problems that occur throughout a renovation .
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