Design Tips and Helpful Hints on Interior Design
Plan ahead, you may not be able to afford an additional room, ensuite etc now, but while you are renovating adjacent walls, put in plumbing and wiring, this will provide less disruption for when you can begin the additional work.
While double-glazing will increase thermal insulation significantly it is not so good for added sound insulation. To achieve this use double windows with a distance of at least 100mm or 4 inches between the windows, sealing all openings.
Select and purchase as many of the fittings and fixtures as you can so that you don't have to make rushed last minute decisions that can cost extra money.
Remember to get the building checked out by a professional for example a builder or engineer before you start knocking down walls. They are very easy to take down and very expensive to put back up! (Some walls may be load bearing and supporting the roof or something else that is vitally important).
When embarking on a project itemise expected dates for parts of the project to commence and be completed, then detail them in a gant chart. Confirm that the participant responsible for that part of the project has the available resources to complete their items within this time frame.
A thickened horizontal line will help define a plane's top or bottom edge. For example, using a trim to the top of a freestanding cupboard will help stop the eye.
Distinguish what style of doors and window joinery you have and what new system you require. There are many selvage companies that may have just what you are looking for at a lower cost than new items. They will also look more authentic.
Divide the work into stages, commencing with the
areas that require the most attention.
Always set up a budget before embarking on any
design project, and try and stick to it.
You can't always know it all, so if in doubt hire
a professional, they are worth their weight in gold,
the time you save (and money) by only having to
do the job once is well worth the initial expense.
Always get a quotation or estimate in writing from
the contractor, consultant or manufacturer, and
accept it in writing. If anything goes wrong later
on it is your word against theirs and can take the
polish off your design project. This is even more
essential when dealing with friends!
Take photos of the space you are going to work
with, it provides a great source of reference when
you are planning or trying to match furniture, fabrics
etc and is much easier to carry than the sofa! Therefore
when you are in the store trying to explain what
fabric you have and what new fabric you want, as
they say "a picture paints a thousand words".
It can also save you a lot of time by getting straight
to the point.
