This past year has really taught us that we can do so many things remotely. Our world is changing and the internet is even more important than it was before. Have you heard of e-design? You may have heard it called virtual interior design or online interior design! E-design is not new at all, in fact, it’s been around for about 6 years now.
While it’s not a new thing in our world, awareness of its existence has been low. It has grown incredibly over the last 6 years!
E-design is really any interior design service that can be done remotely, but it typically involves the client submitting photos, measurements, budget and style preferences and receiving some sort of design plan that they can implement themselves on their own time. This is typically for those who are comfortable taking more of a diy approach and costs less than working 1-1 with a designer.
You would think this would limit your options, but SO much design work can be done remotely. You can utilize zoom, the phone and of course…email!
You can purchase a variety of services online for interior design, from a short zoom or phone consultation for basic advice, to a full blown design plan for your entire home. It’s pretty cool!
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering working with a designer remotely.
- It will take some work on your part
This is not the equivalent of working 1-1 with a designer in most cases, so there will be some diy involved. You’ll receive a shopping list and setup instructions and from then on it’s your job to implement! There should be instructions on how to set up your space, but it’s important to know that all implementation is on your shoulders. In most cases, that means ordering your items, although some designers will offer ordering services for an additional fee.
2. Hire Out
If you don’t want to hang your artwork, put together your furniture or install your own wallpaper, hiring out is a great idea! I suggest checking out places like thumbtack.com or yelp to find a handyman or installer who can help you with this. If you are not comfortable with doing something, don’t stress! There are lots of people out there who can help you with these things. You are not alone. And you always have your designer for support! Some offer a follow-up consult session after you receive your final package, to clarify any design decisions and answer any questions about setup.
3. Faster Turnaround
E-design comes with a faster turnaround! This is a great way to get the design and get started on your room much faster than you would through a typical 1 to 1 designer to client experience. It is usually completed one room at a time. That does not mean that you can’t do a whole house because you absolutely can! It’s just more of a systematic process where you go room to room.
4. Not for remodel work
E-design is not for remodel work. E-designers can give you an overall idea of how things should look and suggest materials, but because they will not be on site to take accurate measurements and ensure everything is done correctly and safely, we can only give you a conceptual idea of the space when it comes to kitchen and bath, or can only suggest decor for those spaces.
A great idea, however, would be to take your conceptual design plan and hand it over to whatever local contractor you are working with. They should be able to bring that vision to life using that as their inspiration.
5. Everything on your timeline
Once you receive your design plan, it’s up to you how to implement. This is what’s great about having a shopping list. If you need to work on buying the items over time that is completely do-able, assuming nothing goes out of stock. If something does go out of stock, you’ll still be able to search for something similar using the item on your list!
Edesign is for you if:
>You don’t mind a little DIY
>You prefer communicating via email, text or on the phone.
>You would like to save money on design services but still work with a designer
>You don’t mind hiring contractors on your own
You’ll want to hire an in-person interior designer if:
>You want the design and implementation process taken care of for you
>You prefer to communicate and have design ideas presented to you in person
>You have a higher budget for a designer and for design and decor
>You want the contractor hiring process to be taken care of for you
So how does it work?
Pre-step 1….Fill out design questionnaire here.
e-design service plan.
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Which price point level ($, $$, or $$$) are you comfortable shopping?
>This budget will influence our shopping list for your project.
>Sources may include, but are not limited to, both retail and/or trade-only sources.
>The actual purchasing is in your hands, on your timeline.
>Selecting inspo pix
>Completing our design profile assessment
>Measuring your room using our measuring guide
>Taking photos of the space and existing items you wish to incorporate
>Schedule a brief discovery call with you
>Begin working on inspiration boards and floor plans so you’ll know where to place items
>Select furnishings based on your design profile, desires, style, and budget
You determine the pace at which you purchase and decorate your space.
Our design pack includes:
>A custom inspiration/mood concept board (examples shown throughout this post)
> A floor plan and key elevation plan
> A customized shopping list of key furnishings
> A how-to guide/suggestions for accessories such as wall art, plants, and other decorative items
To utilize my remote interior design services, check out the options by clicking the button below.