or, helping us help you to achieve your goals
Getting your project off the ground starts with a solid brief. The clearer you can be about your needs and vision, the smoother the process will be. A good design brief helps us understand what you want, why you want it, and how it should function. While we can help fine-tune the details, it’s important to start with a clear idea of what you’re aiming for.
Here’s how:
Start with your goals
Think about why you’re taking on this project in the first place. Are you looking to create more space, bring in more light, or improve functionality? Maybe it’s about making the space more sustainable or blending seamlessly with an existing structure. Whatever your reasons, putting them into words will help set the right direction from the start.
Be honest about your budget
Money plays a big role in shaping your project, so be upfront about how much you’re willing to spend. We can help you make the most of your budget, but we need to know your limits. It’s also a good idea – no, essential – to have a little extra set aside for unexpected costs, because they almost always come up! Some clients prefer not to give the builders an idea of their budget, wanting to rather test the ‘real’ prices builders will quote. This is fine to do, but remember that the more guidance we can give builders, the better the outcome for all.
Describe your style
What kind of design speaks to you? Do you love sleek, modern spaces, or do you prefer something more traditional? Should the new design match an existing building, or are you looking for a bold contrast? If sustainability is important to you, mention that too. Collecting photos or examples of designs you love can really help communicate your vision. These days, with Instagram and Pinterest and countless other tools that make moodboards possible, it has become very easy to put together an idea of your desired style and to share it with us throughout the process.
Consider how your space will be used
A beautiful design is great, but it also needs to be practical. Who will be using the space, and how? Will it need to accommodate different activities? Are there any must-have features, like extra storage, accessibility considerations, or specific layouts? The more details you provide, the better we can tailor the design to your needs.
Decide who is in charge
Design projects often involve multiple people—partners, family members, business associates—but decision-making can’t be a free-for-all. Who has the final say on design choices, costs, and construction decisions? Clarifying this early on will help avoid delays and confusion down the road.
Set clear expectations
Beyond the basics, think about what you truly want from this project. Do you imagine a space that feels open and airy? Do you need it to be flexible for different uses? Do you want it to make a statement? Communicating these expectations upfront will help your architect bring your vision to life.
Final Thoughts
Your design brief doesn’t have to be perfect, and we will help you refine it. But having a clear and thoughtful starting point will make the whole process easier and ensure you end up with a space that truly works for you. Take the time to think it through—you’ll thank yourself later!