Design is a practice that requires precision, focus and a plan of action. It’s only when a sturdy foundation is in place and a repeatable process is at work that inspiration can strike and art can be made. Our signature process is just as important to us as the design work itself. You can not have one without the other.
At the WARREN, our signature process
has three phases:
Phase One
The Discovery Phase is a time dedicated to getting acquainted. We share insights on our studio ethos, workflow and standards while learning the client’s goals, taste, lifestyle, and priorities. We gather important details on both the place and the patron that will serve to inform the entire design process.
The discovery call is a 30-minute Zoom meeting in which we learn about your project goals and walk you through our process, fee structure and creative work so that we can determine together whether we are the right fit.
The consultation is a paid, on-site meeting and our first working session together. At this meeting, we take field dimensions and a LiDAR scan of the home that will later serve as the as-built plans and the foundation of our digital model. While on site, we photograph and document existing conditions, offer initial recommendations, and help define the scope that will shape your proposal.
Following the consultation, we review the site and scope internally to estimate a timeline and establish a flat fee for the design phase. Once the scope and fee are agreed upon and the proposal is signed, you officially become a client of The Warren.
The onboarding call marks the official start of our engagement, offering an in-depth review of our process and each of its deliverables. Together, we set expectations, confirm the project timeline, and explore your design priorities and preferences so that we begin the design phase with a shared understanding and clear direction.
Phase Two
During the Design Phase, we develop a holistic plan that tells the story of both the client and the site itself. We research, gather inspiration, specify and detail every element so that the picture is complete and the plan is buildable.
The Mood Map is a tailored mood board of sorts that establishes the aesthetic direction of the project, telling a cohesive story while celebrating the unique character of each room. Rather than defining specific colors or materials, it captures the overall feeling of the project and serves as our visual north star and aesthetic filter throughout the Design Phase.
In the Architectural Broad Strokes step, we audit the existing site/home to identify opportunities in optimizing flow, utility and client experience. We explore general architectural motifs and develop a furniture plan and preliminary lighting plan. We share our vision by walking the client through a series of black and white rendering and 3D model. By intentionally setting aside color and materials at this stage, we allow our clients to focus on flow and function, establishing the scope that will guide the detailed design to follow.
In the Detailed Design step, we source and specify every element within the project scope while developing a comprehensive budget. We present the design via photo-realistic renderings; these renderings are not simply beautiful images but precise depictions of a detailed 3D model that mirrors the project with great accuracy. The result of carefully detailing both the virtual model and real-world budget assures that the client receives a clear understanding of both the design and the investment required to execute fully.
Because each step of our process builds thoughtfully on the one before it, our presentations arrive at a design that reflects not only the strongest creative solution but also a careful consideration of the project’s timeline and budget. Should revisions be desired following a presentation, we are happy to accommodate them at our hourly rate, ensuring that every refinement receives the same care and attention as the original design.
Our construction documentation is developed in house with a level of detail and precision that reflects our expert construction knowledge. We produce complete drawing sets that communicate the design intent clearly to builders and building departments alike. When pertinent, we coordinate with independent licensed architects and engineers, who review the documents and apply their professional seal.
Phase Three
During the Delivery Phase, The Warren remains your primary point of contact, coordinating contractors, trades, and purchasing so that you never need to manage multiple offices. We lead the execution of the project with the client’s needs and design integrity at the forefront.
We host a day on site for our clients to meet some of our preferred contractors and our lead Project Manager. During each walk, we communicate the design intent and answer any questions of each pro. We then review the bids alongside the client, helping them compare each thoughtfully, so that they can make an informed selection in hiring a contractor.
We develop a comprehensive timeline for the build or renovation that charts a clear path forward, from the anticipated start date on site through procurement and key milestones such as installation and styling, culminating in a projected move-in date.
The Warren manages the procurement, tracking, and receiving of every specified item, inspecting each delivery upon arrival and resolving any damages or discrepancies so that every piece reaches the home complete and in proper condition.
Through regularly scheduled site visits, we maintain quality control and clear communication with vendors, trades, and contractors, providing additional drawing details, dimensions, and design solutions as unforeseen conditions arise so that the work remains true to the design intent.
At the close of construction, we walk the site with both the contractor and the client to identify any flaws in the work or decisions still pending, offering thoughtful solutions and creative problem solving to bring the construction process to a close with clarity and satisfaction.
Delivery and installation is the final and most satisfying step in our process. Our white glove installation team delivers every selected piece of furniture, work of art, and all the accessories from the warehouse to the home. We then style each room with a curated collection of objects, adding the final layer of magic for a dream-like reveal and gorgeous images. It’s the only part of our job that is actually like TV.