PROCESS
DESIGN IS A CREATIVE + ANALYTICAL PROCESS…
From the very start of every project, VARIANT sets the tone that drives all projects from start to finish. We think through the details, work with you, and advocate for you throughout that process to make sure you receive a finished space you can be proud of.
Learn more about how we work at each stage of a design project below.
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PRE-DESIGN
In advance of beginning active design on a project, VARIANT conducts a thorough process of data collection, gathering information on the building, the location, the project scope and the client goals. All of this background information informs future phases of the project.
SITE SURVEY &
FIELD VERIFICATION
DEMOGRAPHIC &
HISTORICAL RESEARCH
PHASE ONE : Establishing the groundwork for your project
Our process is an active dialogue with our clients. The goal is to create environments where every design element meets the needs of our collaborators and their target markets. The concept phase sets the foundation for everything that comes after, carrying us through each phase of the design process. Through in-depth research of target markets, project location, and client needs, a presentation is crafted including carefully chosen imagery that depicts the overall look and feel of the space. Floor plans, material selections, and furniture selections are also explored during this phase.
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ACTIVE DESIGN : CONCEPT
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ACTIVE DESIGN : SCHEMATIC DESIGN
PHASE TWO : Concepts become more concrete
This is when projects start to come to life. Driven by our research and explorations during the concept phase, and in response to client feedback, we provide more detailed floor plans and reflected ceiling plans, as well as 3D sketches and interior elevations. We explore key design elements and begin to locate millwork, lighting, furniture, and material locations that are based on overall concept.
PHASE THREE : Digging into the details
Once we receive client approval on overall concept and schematic design direction, we move into design development. For this phase, we refine the direction, dig into the details, and provide a well-developed presentation of all rendered floor plans indicating furniture and floor finish locations. We render all ceiling plans to demonstrate material finishes and lighting selections, as well as render all key elevations to illustrate the overall project design.
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ACTIVE DESIGN : DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
PHASE FOUR : Communicating the design
Variant provides a 100% document set for reference during the build-out of all projects. Throughout our design phases we coordinate with team members and consultants so the contractor has a clear understanding of design intent. Within these documents we include all final plan, elevation, custom millwork, and detail drawings associated with the design. Material specifications, lighting, plumbing, and hardware schedules are also included. The final set of drawings can be used for pricing exercises as well as construction.
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EXECUTION :
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION
PHASE FIVE : Overseeing the execution
After all documentation has been submitted and the construction process begins, we continue coordination with the general contractor and other consultants involved to ensure the design is executed as intended. We make sure every design element is carried through to the end of the project by attending site meetings, reviewing all shop drawings, providing clarification with further detailed drawings, answering RFI’s, and coordinating final furniture installation and styling.
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EXECUTION :
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
FINISHING TOUCHES
To quote Luther Vandrose, “a house is not a home…”
At VARIANT, we thrive in this final phase. We revel in the process of sharing our work with our clients, their clients, and others. We love passing along the fruits of our labors and adding the finish touches that make the spaces we design feel polished. We love seeing our projects come to life and invigorate people for years to come!
FURNITURE PROCUREMENT
INSTALLATION + STAGING
we are VARIANT.
