A New Project – how we begin.

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When it comes to design, our brains respond to visual cues like color, materials, ceiling height and lighting direction. We know right away whether a room feels comfortable, mysterious, open, or intimate. We may not always be able to pinpoint why it feels a certain way, but we know when it feels right or when it’s off. That’s design psychology at work. Those many small yet important choices made within the overall design quietly shape how we feel and move within it.

So how do we, as a firm, get there? Every design begins with a wish list. For our next project, one of the rooms we’re designing is a “speakeasy.” We always start by asking: what is the mood and the feeling our client wants to evoke. This particular client wants the space to have attitude. (love this) Similar to the Aspire Severance Room we designed, she wants this room to have the feeling of stepping away from the world and into a secret place of her own.

Once we have all of the requirements, together we’re reviewing images, either the client’s or our own, so that we have a concrete, collaborative design direction. As an example, here are five inspirational photos I’ve gathered so you may better understand this process.

Our client asked for color and pattern. Now the question is: how much is too much? This photo becomes our compass. It will either give us permission to layer in more… or tell us to dial it back.

Our client loves antiques and wants to layer in several pieces. This photo lets us show how they can be integrated seamlessly into the space. It also opens the door to talk about customization, noting the corner bench, which is clearly bespoke, and can set the tone for how tailored the room could be. That naturally circles us back to an important piece of the puzzle – how much they’re comfortable investing in the room.

Photo via Pinterest, Designer unknown

Our client also requested an area for a bar as well as comfortable seating. We’re discussing how much focus this feature deserves, and whether it’s meant for a quick cocktail or real conversation. How many people ideally does she see gathering in this space? This is where layout meets mood.

Photo via LM Design Studio

This photo helped convey a color direction I was drawn to. Our client has a key piece of artwork she purchased on a recent trip that will live in this space, so the palette needs to work with it – not match it, but coordinate and complement it. It confirms that we’re headed in the right color direction.

Previously I heard the client say that they wanted a modern feel, yet they also said they love antiques. Hmm. This space, quite unlike the others, enables us to have this conversation to clarify their vision. Modern means something different to everyone, so our job is to define what modern means to you.

These early visuals help us see what words alone can’t capture. Pictures allow us to continue our conversation before a single piece is chosen. From here, the real work begins – turning a mood and a feeling into an actual design.

Want to learn more? It all starts with a conversation.  Reach out and let’s explore how we can design your own one-of-a-kind space. In the meantime, I’ll keep you posted as this speakeasy takes shape. It’s going to be a fun one!

Design is personal, and the right choices make all the difference.