Our Kitchen and Interior Design Process
Step 1
INITIAL CONSULTATION
Your first step is an initial consultation with Jenny, which can take place in person or via Zoom depending on your location.
This complimentary, no-obligation consultation is an opportunity to discuss your project, understand how Designmarked works and determine whether we’re the right kitchen and interior design studio for you.
We’ll talk through your ideas, the scope of your project, your aspirations and any initial questions you may have. It’s also an opportunity for you to get to know Jenny and discuss how Designmarked could bring your vision to life.
Step 2
DEVELOPING THE BRIEF
Once you decide to proceed with Designmarked, we’ll send you a design agreement outlining the scope of our services and associated design fees.
Our design fee varies depending on the size and complexity of the project and its location. Design fees exclude travel expenses and are payable prior to design work commencing.
We’ll then meet with everyone involved in the project to develop a comprehensive design brief that captures your needs, priorities and vision for the space. This may include family members or other professionals you are seeking advice from. Having everyone involved at the initial briefing helps ensure that all perspectives are considered from the outset.
Where possible, we like to meet in your existing kitchen. Even if this isn’t the home we’re designing, seeing how you currently use your space gives us valuable insight into how you cook, what you store and what is — or isn’t — working for you.
During the briefing, we’ll discuss functionality, ergonomics, spatial design, your interior style, appliances, project timeframes and, importantly, your budget expectations. These conversations help establish a clear direction for the design and ensure that the proposal is aligned with both your needs and investment.
For renovations, we’ll take basic measurements of the existing space at this stage. For new builds, we’ll require a copy of the relevant architectural plans.
step 3
CONCEPTS & PLANNING
Jenny will begin your concept plans. This can take several weeks, so please advise of any time restraints. You may be offered several different layouts to consider. It’s important at this early stage to ensure all possible design options are considered. Together, we will choose the most suitable layout.
The “mechanics” of the design are now established, so we can get creative and focus on the overall look and style of the kitchen. It’s great to have all your inspiration magazine cut-outs, Pinterest and website links for this stage.
Products and materials for cabinetry, benchtops and accessories will be sourced and offered for discussion. This selection will be governed by your budget, established earlier in the design brief. Although product specifications will be provided, and within your budget, the plans will not include a colour consultation. We can work with your interior designer at this stage, otherwise we can provide a colour consultation service for the kitchen.
Our final concept plan will give you a clear understanding of the kitchen, and includes a floor plan, elevations, and 3D Imagery. These give you almost photo-realistic images of the proposed kitchen. A specification sheet detailing products and hardware will also be supplied.
These plans are not working drawings, but there are overall measurements, and they are drawn to scale. A final site measure and working drawings will still be required by the cabinetmaker.
step 4
MANUFACTURING
We also provide a manufacturing quote for your kitchen. These quotes will come directly to you, from reputable manufacturers that have a proven record with us. We will ensure the quotes are comparable and offer the very best value for your investment. This service also includes our management of the manufacturing and installation process, to provide a seamless transition from concept design, to a working kitchen.