ANSWER:
Interior architects or designers create spaces that are both useful and attractive. We plan how these environments will look and feel, and take responsibility for:

Conceptual design: The concept design phase varies from project to project. If your project doesn’t have an established brand identity, we can help you create one with a deep dive into your target market, the space’s requirements, and other relevant factors. Through research and creative strategy, we will help you to identify and establish a brand identity, and explore how it can manifest in physical form. If you already have an established brand identity, we’ll help you roll it out with ideas on how the space will look and function to showcase your brand.

Sustainable design: We consider all your options carefully with the goal of minimising environmental impact.

3D visualisation: We use software to show you what the final design will look like.

Building codes: We know the rules and regulations to ensure designs meet safety standards.

Collaboration: We work with you, architects, and others involved in the project to make sure everyone's on the same page.

Material selection: We choose materials and finishes that fit the design and budget.

Sourcing: We source furniture, lighting, and decor that match the design.

Each project is unique, so the time each takes can vary. Factors that affect the timeline include:

Project size and complexity: The bigger and more complicated the project, the longer it usually takes.

Scope of work: If there's a lot of customisation involved, it can take longer to design.

Resources availability: Things like materials and contractors being available can speed things up or slow them down.

Decision-making speed: How quickly decisions are made by you and other people involved in the project also affects the timeline.

Typically, three months is enough from the beginning the concept design phase to the start of your construction phase. Construction timelines may vary from a couple of weeks to a few months.

Here's a rough breakdown of the stages:

Conceptualisation and planning: This is where we understand your vision, needs, and budget. We'll come up with design ideas and layout plans. It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.

Design development: Once you approve the concept, we refine the plans, choose materials, colours, and finishes, and make detailed drawings and 3D models. This step might take another 2 to 4 weeks.

Construction documentation: We create detailed construction drawings and specs for the builders. This usually takes around 2 to 4 weeks.

Bidding and contractor selection: You might want to get bids from different builders and pick one. That process can take 2 to 4 weeks.

Construction and installation: The actual building work and putting everything in place can take 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the project. However, each project is unique. Please fill in our inquiry form so that we can respond with more detailed information.

Of course, unexpected things can pop up along the way, so flexibility is important. Good communication and planning help keep things on track.

Answer:

Bringing an interior design project to life requires a team effort with various experts. We work with a wide network of trusted professionals who we can recommend. Depending on the project's complexity and scope, the following professionals may be involved:

Architect: They design a building’s structure and exterior. They sometimes work with the interior architect to ensure that the interior design aligns with the building’s architecture and that structural considerations are met. Usually, Sketch works in existing buildings, so an architect isn’t always needed unless required by the landlord/special needs of the project,

Contractors and construction team: They handle the physical work like demolition, wetworks, electrical, plumbing, painting, and installing fixtures.

Project manager: They oversee everything, coordinating between teams, managing timelines and budgets, and ensuring the project runs smoothly.

Electricians and plumbers: They install electrical systems, lighting, and plumbing to make sure everything meets safety standards.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) specialist: They design and install heating, cooling, and ventilation systems to keep the space comfortable.

Structural engineer: For complex projects or major changes, they ensure the building’s structural integrity is maintained.

Lighting designer: They create lighting plans that enhance the design and meet functional needs. Most of the time the lighting supplier will offer this as a value-added service. From all our years in the restaurant industry, we are excellent as designing lighting and only require speciality designs in rare instances.

Furniture manufacturers and/or suppliers: They provide the furniture for the project. Some of which may be custom or bespoke for the specific project and may require 8 – 12 weeks lead time.

Graphic designer or brand identity specialist: For commercial spaces, they create logos, signage, promotional materials, packaging design, etc.

Acoustic consultant: In spaces where sound quality is important, like theaters, restaurants, or music venues, they design solutions to improve acoustics and reduce noise disturbances.

Artists and art consultants: They help select and install artworks that complement the space.

Sustainability consultant: For projects with a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, they advise on eco-friendly design strategies and materials.

Equipment specialist: For restaurants, they design the ‘back of house’ kitchen layout and specify equipment and related systems.

Audio Visual Specialist: almost all interior projects require a sound system & cctv system. In restaurants, the type of music as well as the quality thereof play an enormous part in the experience.

Answer:
A project manager is crucial for your construction project because they handle the complexities and challenges involved, including:

Planning and organisation: They create a detailed project plan, outlining all tasks, timelines, and resources needed. This helps keep the project on track.

Resource management: They manage materials, labour, equipment, and finances, ensuring everything is used efficiently to avoid delays and extra costs.

Risk management: They identify potential risks and develop backup plans to address any issues that might arise.

Communication and coordination: They act as the central point of contact for architects, contractors, suppliers, and clients, ensuring everyone is informed and working together.

Timeline and schedule adherence: They monitor progress and address any delays to keep the project on schedule.

Quality control: They ensure the construction meets the required quality standards through regular inspections and collaboration with quality assurance teams.

Budget control: They keep track of expenses and manage changes to ensure the project stays within budget.

Problem-solving: They handle unexpected challenges efficiently, making quick decisions to keep the project moving forward.

Regulatory compliance: They ensure the project follows all building codes, regulations, and safety standards.

Client satisfaction: They aim to meet or exceed your expectations, ensuring the outcome is as desired.

In summary, a project manager brings expertise, organisation, and leadership to your project. They make sure it progresses efficiently, stays within budget, and meets quality standards.

Answer: At the moment, we do not offer project management in-house. However, having worked in the industry for many years, we know a number of excellent project managers we can recommend.

Answer: Every project is unique, so each quote is different. Please contact us if you would like a quote for your project. We usually start with a Zoom or in-person consultation to understand your exact needs. After this, we will provide a detailed quote and discuss it with you to ensure everything is clear.

Answer: Yes, almost all commercial interior design projects need council approval. The rule is: if it casts a shadow, the council needs to know! We don't handle this in-house, but we work with reliable third parties who do. Let us know if you need help, and we’ll connect you with them.