The design process

I recently read an article written by a landscape designer. It discussed how the designer dealt with the clients' expectations and their working relationship. At the first meeting a bond was struck, they were talking on the same wave-length and both were very excited about the prospect of working together. The landscaper had painstakingly designed a beautiful garden, picked out which flowers and shrubs would blossom at different times of the year so the garden would appear constantly in bloom, he worked out sprinkler systems, retaining walls, drainage, absolutely everything. It had taken him a couple of days to do, only to have the client say "thanks but I think I can get this cheaper elsewhere".

I have had similar experiences. Before I present to a client, I will have spent at least one sleepless night going over every inch of their space, remembering the tiniest detail and finding a unique solution or that one gorgeous piece of unusual furniture, lighting or accent, something no one else has. I use sources from around the world. Most clients don't realize that a designer adds value in oh so many ways. We save time and money - although it may not seem like it when we initially talk budgets - but I have had many clients who actually tell me that I don't charge enough!! We provide overall vision, steer clients away from bad mistakes and advise where to pay more for an investment piece versus something whimsical that will be outdated in next to no time.

Here are some of my favourite pieces, some which I recently suggested to a few potential clients:

These pieces are from many sources, please contact me if you are interested in a particular item.