OUR DESIGN PROCESS
While every project is unique, our process adheres to the same linear progression no matter the scope or scale of work. As changes arise we may return to a previous task or phase, but we consistently apply the same rigor to every consideration.
1A. Discovery
This is the phase where we get to know you and wrap our brains around your interior design goals. We develop a program — a comprehensive list of functional requirements and spatial attributes — and start to talk about Big Ideas. We pepper you with questions and analyze your inspiration images. We listen, we observe, we collect data and inventory.
PHASE 1: DESIGN
1B. Conceptualization
Once we understand The Problem we get to work developing our interior design concept. The concept serves as a touchstone as your design develops. When we find ourselves at design crossroads, we refer back to the overarching concept to guide our decision-making. The concept is generally described in a brief narrative and supported with precedent imagery.
1C. Development
With our design concept in hand, we set out to develop the details. During this phase we build and study your spaces in a 3D model. We test spatial relationships and right-size furniture layouts. We experiment with colors, finishes and lighting. Physical materials are curated and we start to craft finish palettes. We present you with options, and collaborate with you throughout the manifestation of your project dreams.
PHASE 2: PRODUCTION
2A. Documentation
Next up: the technical nitty-gritty. Once you have bought off on all the key design decisions, we get to work translating our 3D drawings into construction documentation. We generate a comprehensive set of dimensioned drawings and detailed specifications that serve as your contractor’s road map for construction. For FF&E (furniture, furnishings, and equipment) scope we describe each item with detailed cut-sheets that correspond with coded installation plans. All of these documents are used to solicit accurate pricing and determine your overall project budget.
2B. Procurement
Depending on your project scope, we begin the process of product procurement upon receipt of your final approvals. Procurement services include access to our trade-only resources, custom furniture design, order placement and tracking, sample approvals, product substitutions, freight coordination, inspection of goods, damage resolution, and order consolidation.
3A. Oversight
Once construction and procurement gets underway, we make ourselves available to troubleshoot any issues that arise. We partner with your contractor to ensure field decisions align with the overall design concept. We assess revisions, we review shop drawings, and we approve material submittals. We hold our trade partners accountable, and work diligently to make sure you receive the highest level of craftsmanship and customer service.
PHASE 3: EXECUTION
3B. Furnishing
After all interior architectural groundwork has been laid, we then layer in the personalized elements. Furniture, furnishings, lighting, window coverings, art and accessories are the elements that create a truly individualized space. We coordinate delivery and installation of all furnishings, we unbox your treasures, we zhuzh, and we place everything according to plan.
3C. Closeout
After the work is complete, we review the final product with you to ensure all outstanding punch list items have been satisfactorily resolved. We revel in the fruits of our shared labor, we toast our success, and we start planning our next collaboration!
“Highly recommend Counterbalance Studio! We had a wonderful experience working with them. Insightful designs, very responsive, and they did a beautiful job blending my aesthetic with my husband’s. I am so in love with the design they did for us and am still in awe about how well they understood me!”