OUR INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES

When Experience Creates the Experience

Ideas become outcomes you can price, permit, and build. We translate your vision into code-aware plans, trade-ready documents, and coordinated specifications that prevent delays, change orders, and budget creep—so the process feels calm and the result feels inevitable.

What that looks like in practice

From intent to buildability: space planning, circulation, and ergonomics refined into drawings contractors can execute (plans, reflected ceiling plans/RCPs, millwork details, finish schedules).

Compliance, handled: solutions developed with local codes and condo/municipal rules in mind; coordination with OAQ-licensed architects and engineers when required.

Fewer surprises on site: clear specs and preselected materials keep bids apples-to-apples, reduce RFIs, and align sequencing and lead times.

Smart procurement: selections balanced for availability, durability, maintenance, and long-term value—not just looks.

One accountable lead: we orchestrate trades, vendors, and consultants so you keep one line of communication and a predictable schedule.

There are many ways to approach design. At Chrome Design, 25 years of construction experience have shaped a practical, build-oriented method. We organize each mandate into clear, sequential phases that align decisions, drawings, and selections with permitting, procurement, and site work. This structure keeps trades on the same page, reduces change orders, and accelerates the overall build—turning vision into a coordinated plan you can price, permit, and deliver with confidence.

INTRODUCTION
We begin with an introduction meeting to confirm scope, objectives, and budget. We analyze needs and architectural constraints, survey the site (including equipment to be relocated), update existing plans, and align early with the architect, general contractor, and other contributors. This phase concludes with project planning and an architectural program.

THE CONCEPT
We research and develop the concept, prepare preliminary layout plans, verify compliance with current codes and standards, and establish an initial finish direction. We compile a preliminary 3D package for client review and host a meeting with stakeholders, architects, and clients.

3D DESIGN PROGRAM
We advance conceptualization and space planning, preselect materials and finishes, and shortlist furniture and fixtures. A lighting design program is defined. We create 3D models (SketchUp and Revit) and present them with the project manager or directly to clients.

CONCEPT FINALIZATION
We adjust plans as needed and coordinate with the architect, engineer, and contractor. Clients review layouts and provide feedback while we produce 3D renderings and video presentations, finalize materials, furniture, hardware, and finishes, develop detailed elevations and concepts, and assemble sample boards.

CONSTRUCTION + DESIGN SELECTIONS
We lock trade selections (plumbing, electrical/AV, flooring, ceramic/stone/marble) and design selections (furniture, textiles, colors, wallpaper, appliances, chandeliers, window treatments). We compile sample boards, present plans, inventory items to be relocated, gather preliminary quotes, align the budget, and finalize plans with any required adjustments.

TECHNICAL DRAWINGS
We schedule and coordinate with the municipality, architect, contractor, and structural engineer. We produce demolition, construction, detail, electrical, plumbing, millwork, and smart-home plans; door schedules and hardware; and reflected ceiling/electrical drawings, coordinating closely with contractors. Meetings cover mechanical equipment and architectural/engineering coordination, followed by final drawing adjustments.

ORDER MANAGEMENT
We prepare tender documents and invitations to bid, request and analyze bids, provide recommendations, and support finish selections. As needed, we conduct site visits with bidders (e.g., cabinetry, stone) and provide information support during the bidding period. We finalize award recommendations, manage contract signing, and—if mandated—coordinate orders and deliveries.

PROJECT MONITORING
We issue the construction set, lead site directives (meetings, visits, authorizations), and keep minutes. We review and approve shop drawings and samples, manage deliveries and supervise installations, verify payment applications, maintain jobsite quality control, respond to collaborators’ questions, and issue final plans with end-of-project documentation.

DELIVERY
We supervise furniture delivery and installation, perform the final jobsite inspection for quality control, and issue as-built drawings, addenda, a comprehensive deficiency list, and a project post-mortem.

EXCLUSIONS
Specialized HVAC, sprinkler, fire systems, or electrical distribution drawings; services by engineers (structural, civil, mechanical, electrical), architects, and other licensed professionals; telecommunications management; move-in plans and logistics; security, signage, and evacuation plans; and permit applications or technical specifications for permits (unless contracted separately).

Project Planning

At Chrome Design, we recommend starting interior design work at least 3 months—ideally 6 months—before construction. This window lets us define the full scope, build a realistic timeline, produce drawings, coordinate with the architect, engineers, and trades, evaluate bids, and establish a solid budget (including lead times and permit considerations). The result: fewer surprises, smoother procurement, and a start date you can trust.

The Importance of the Team

Selecting experienced trades is a key success factor. Great craftsmanship has a cost, but excellence doesn’t require overspending—it requires the right team, chosen early. Over the years we’ve built a vetted network of specialists (millwork, stone, tile, electrical, plumbing, AV) whose expertise elevates outcomes. By prequalifying trades and locking them in before construction, we achieve better drawings, clearer sequencing, apples-to-apples pricing, tighter coordination, and a smoother, more predictable build.

A Realistic Timeline

Establishing one shared, realistic timeline with all professionals—contractor, architect, and design team—is essential to a smooth build. New construction and renovations follow different cadences and require different interventions; permits, inspections, condo/municipal rules, and long-lead items can affect the start date. Aligning milestones early keeps trades booked in the right order, prevents gaps, and protects both budget and quality.

Listen to the Professionals

Build the budget collaboratively with the contractor and key trades, including realistic allowances and a contingency for surprises or client-driven add-ons. Lean on field experience—their recommendations on materials, lead times, sequencing, access, and maintenance often prevent future costs. Plan for tomorrow as well as today (for example, rough-in infrastructure now and finish later), and don’t hesitate to phase the work (Phase 2 or 3) if the current budget can’t support everything. A phased, trade-informed budget protects cash flow, keeps scope realistic, and avoids cutting critical quality or compliance items.

Clarify at Every Stage

Communication is a two-way street: listen actively and communicate early. Be clear about special needs, expectations, and constraints so everyone shares the same reality. Think of it as a tango—owner, trades, architect, and designer moving in step. Regular touchpoints, clear points of contact, and documented decisions (drawings, minutes, change log) maintain alignment, reduce RFIs and rework, and smooth the build. When the dialogue is open and respectful, sequencing improves, costs stay on track, and the finished result is markedly better.

The better question isn’t “How much does a designer cost?”—it’s “What’s the cost of not hiring one?” Your project will likely be one of your biggest investments, and like any serious investment, it deserves qualified professionals to guide decisions, protect your budget and timeline, and maximize the final result.

When planning your project, include design fees as a defined line item in the overall budget and schedule—early design and coordination pay for themselves. Clear drawings, detailed specs, and preselected finishes reduce RFIs and change orders, keep trades aligned, and shorten time on site. By resolving details before construction/demolition, you avoid headaches, sequencing conflicts, and costly surprises caused by unplanned items. In short, thoughtful design planning lowers risk, prevents delays, and helps lock scope, schedule, and pricing sooner.

Every project is unique, and costs can vary significantly—sometimes by a factor of two—depending on complexity, client involvement, deliverables, and the trades required.

We take on new builds and full-scale renovations (residential and commercial) and occasionally accept specialized mandates. That’s why we begin with a free first meeting to define objectives, outline the right budget, and determine the key factors driving your project.

For a complete Chrome Design mandate—from initial intent to delivery (see the full list of our services below)—plan for 8% to 14% of the construction budget, plus taxes. The exact percentage depends on the phases you select and the nature of the project.

How Chrome Design Bills: Interior Design Fees, Percentage Target & Hourly Delivery

After a free first meeting, we evaluate your project and propose an allocated design budget tailored to your scope. We use a percentage-based target tied to the overall construction budget, but we bill through an hourly-rate structure with clear milestones. In practice, most full-service mandates land in the 8–12% range (plus taxes), depending on the phases you select and the nature/complexity of the work.

Why this model? Fixed fees often create confusion about what is or isn’t included and tend to trigger “extras” as the scope evolves—exactly the headaches we all want to avoid. Our percentage target sets a realistic envelope; hourly billing keeps things transparent and flexible as decisions are made, drawings evolve, and site conditions surface. You see where time goes, what’s included by phase, and how choices affect effort and cost.

What you can expect

• A clear, phase-by-phase roadmap (concept, 3D, technical drawings, selections, procurement support, site observation).

• A target budget you can plan around, with milestone invoicing and progress reporting.

• Fewer surprises: changes are managed openly instead of hidden in lump-sum “extras.”

Result: projects are delivered as intended and expected, with better clarity and a smoother experience from intent to delivery.

Who Does What —Decorator, Interior Designer, and Architect? Knowing the boundaries between aesthetics, technical planning, and legally reserved acts (signed/sealed plans, permits) helps you choose the right pro, set realistic budgets, and streamline approvals from day one.

DECORATION
• Focuses on aesthetics: style, mood, color palettes, accessories, and styling.
• Selects furniture, textiles, decorative lighting, and art; prepares mood boards and purchase lists.
• Produces decorative (non-technical) layouts and manages sourcing and decorative installation.
• Does not alter structure or building systems; no signed/sealed drawings or permits.

INTERIOR DESIGN
• All decorator functions mentioned.
• Performs needs analysis & programming, space planning, ergonomics, and circulation studies.
• Delivers plans and details: non-load-bearing partitions, lighting/outlet layouts, built-ins/millwork, finishes, and material specs.
• Checks compliance (within scope): codes, accessibility, safety of layouts and material choices.
• Coordinates vendors/contractors/consultants; may provide site observation and quality control.

ARCHITECT (OAQ member)
• Title and acts reserved by law: architectural design of buildings/major alterations; protection of the public.
• Signs & seals drawings and specs for construction, additions, or modifications; prepares permit documentation.
• Addresses structure/envelope, egress & life safety, change of use; coordinates engineers.
• End-to-end process: concept → construction documents → tender/bidding → construction administration (frequency per contract).
• Requirements: accredited degree, internship, OAQ admission, and professional liability insurance.