How to Tackle the Planning Process

Interior designers often look in magazines and online for design inspiration. This helps them develop creative ideas for the design layout, materials, tile patterns, colors, and details such as lighting and hardware. Search for inspiration yourself, since it will help you gain a better understanding of the direction you want the design to go.

When your interior designer presents their initial ideas, provide feedback that expresses your own thoughts and needs—from functionality and usage, to what you may or may not like in terms of color or style. It is important to communicate effectively so your interior designer can incorporate your ideas into the design.

Once inspiration concepts are selected and reviewed, the next step is for your interior designer to complete the design drawings. These drawings are used to convey the design plans to both you and your contractor, and others involved in the process, such as tile installers—especially in terms of tile pattern and size.

These drawings should reflect all of the design plans. This will help your interior designer plan specifics, such as the layout of your tub and shower, toilet, vanity, and tile. They should also include elevation in their drawings, which shows the front or side of the elements within the design plan. Elevation should be used to plan the bathroom vanity design, shower and tub configuration, tile pattern and sizes, and backsplash tile design for any vertical surfaces.