4 Qualities of Interior Designers that are also Awesome Team Players (during Construction)
1.
BE ORGANIZED
Use a shared document to track design decisions, details and notes with the owner and the team. Share this document with the team so everyone can be on the same page about the status of things.
When changes need to happen in the field, present well-coordinated options by working with the team in advance, incorporating cost and schedule impacts.
Be prepared with as much information as necessary in order for your client to reach a (good) decision. Half-baked ideas typically result in more questions, followed by more time.
Owners are super-busy and often distracted. Prepare them for what decisions are coming up; be clear about which decisions are important to the schedule; don’t assume an owner understands the impact (in both time and money) of delayed decisions.
Designing during construction is the most expensive way to build.
2.
BE PROACTIVE
Tackle Challenging Coordination First
During construction, we’re working to clear a path for the builder to build. That means getting the build team information in advance of when they need it. A good construction team will develop a construction schedule and coordinate key dates and lead-times that with the team.
Work backwards to calendar design and decision due dates to be coordinated with the construction schedule.
Work ‘big to small’ – start with the large, complex problems; dig in and ask for help if needed!
Coordinate tricky areas with the team, include the owner as needed.
Assign a point contact for collecting, managing and fielding details until an issue is resolved.
Set a target date for tracking down missing information and resolving issues in a timely manner.
Early decisions can set the tone for the rest of a project.
Early decisions can set the tone for the rest of a project.
3.
BE HUMBLE
Know Your Superpowers and Ask for Help When You Need It
Change to “Often, designers struggle in various areas, but are not willing to delegate, manage their team or find technical support until it becomes ‘code red’ urgent. Play to your strengths, avoid fire drills, and seek support before you need it.
4.
BE PREPARED
Client Presentations + Design Decisions
Be willing to design within a budget by mixing low and high finish selections.
Set expectations early for what to expect in both time and money during the design process.
Help owners make confident decisions by presenting “all ‘winning’ options”.
Decisions should be documented in meeting notes and/or drawings, and easy to reference.
Don’t let ambiguity linger. Follow up to confirm your understanding of important details.
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