Interior Design Process

After years of experience, I’ve developed a unique interior design process which is based on creative thinking and being original. This system makes my work more efficient and as a result I can get the most out of a project. So in this post I’ll show you the stages of my interior design process.

I’m Ula Burgiel and I’m a luxury interior designer based in London. I’ve worked with the top interior designers, hi-end developers and yacht designers. I’ve been designing hi-end luxury interiors all around the globe: Hong-Kong, New York, London. Today I’ll tell you about how I design projects, what I start with and how I get my inspiration.

Let’s begin:

Stage 1 – What is the project about?

The first stage of the interior design process is to clarify what the project is about. Who is it for? Is it for a big family or is it for someone living on their own? The second thing is where is it located? Is it in the city or is it somewhere out in the countryside? All this basic information deserves a longer consideration as it’ll shape the spaces I’m designing. I really believe that the people living in the house should be central in design thinking process. Secondly, I establish how I make it into a feature.

Stage 2 – Research

I research a lot about the area. Which people lived there previously, what happened there, any historical and cultural references. I aim to find out all the interesting stories. In addition I study the local architecture and actually sketch the architectural features of the buildings. After that, I think how can I show it in the project?

Stage 3 – The main idea and feel of the project.

Once I’ve collected all the visual materials, I develop a main idea for the entire space. In other words the ‘spirit of the project’. It’s especially important for minimal interior designers like me. In this stage of my interior design process I need to answer a lot of questions. For example: Is it a hidden exotic oasis or a vibrant space? What’s the tone and feel? Is it a dark space with strong textured wood or bright, sleek, modern, minimal?

Stage 4 – Space Planning

In order to apply space planning; I use the architectural plan of the property as a base, then I tear off a piece of tracing paper to trace over it. Within the walls I design a new functional layout with all the features and furniture (which I usually find during international shows like Milan Design Week). It’s very important because a well-designed house is not only beautiful furniture and colours but a space that makes life easier and more enjoyable.

Stage 5 – Sketching

Then, I get creative and use sketching. I sketch three-dimensional views to design unique features that no one else will have.

This is certainly my favourite part! I design every centimeter of the space making it truly unique and exceptional. Sketching helps me think and visualise the space so I know exactly what I want to put in the design. It’s almost like I think through the sketching and I can make conscious decisions about placing every piece of design in the space.

Learn more about Interior Design Sketching

Stage 6 – Finishes & Materials

In this stage of the interior design process I pick all the finishes and materials. For example I select stone samples, timber samples, metals, fabrics, rugs – everything that will be in the design. In other words I dress the space.

As a minimal interior designer I always think about sustainability and make conscious decisions regarding finishes. I think it’s very important to stay consistent with materials. This way every room in the house looks like it belongs to the same design family without loosing it’s unique character.

Stage 7 – Technical CAD Drawing

I make sure that all my designs work perfectly by drawing it in very precise CAD software. CAD or Computer Aided Design is a computer software for advanced technical documentation.

Stage 8 – 3D Computer Visuals

This stage shows you what the design will look like from a 3D (very realistic) point of view. It’s a computer generated image that shows you the space without actually building it. Just like a photograph.

Summary – Interior Design Process

To sum up, these are the stages of the interior design process:

• What is the project about?
• Research
• The Main Idea and Feel of the Project
• Space Planning
• Sketching
• Finishes and Materials
• Technical CAD Drawing
• 3D Computer Visuals

Of course, every interior designer does it slightly differently but this is how I do it.

N.B. sketching plays a big part in my interior design process. It allows me to be really creative and transfer my ideas into something tangible. I can then compare and choose the best solutions. Pencil and blank paper focuses your mind and eliminates all the distractions. Therefore, it’s the only way I’ve found to be truly original.

I spend time on the concept stage of any design so I can dedicate a lot of creative energy hand sketching the ideal space. In addition, I research the way you want to live, your interests and your passions which will be reflected in my designs.

Lastly, working with skilled craftsmen, I carefully refine every detail and select natural materials (such as: wood and marble) to make sure the best space potential is achieved. Every project is professionally documented and overseen which ensures that the chosen contractor can deliver the project seamlessly.

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