10 things your ID needs to know

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION TO INCLUDE IN YOUR BRIEF TO THE INTERIOR DESIGNER.

1 HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE IN THE HOME, AND WHO ARE THEY?

Kelvin Teo, founder of Space Sense, shares that this is often the first question he asks clients as it allows him to design to fit the homeownersʼ requirements. Good space planning means “clarity of space, consistency in materiality and seamless links within the home,” explains Stephen Goh, creative director of Metaphor Studio. Also, whether there are elderly or young children in the home will determine certain design considerations and choice of furniture.

2 DO YOU HAVE PETS?

Your ID can help design pet-friendly furniture using the right materials, including scratch-and water-resistant ones.

3 WHAT STYLES DO YOU LIKE?

If youʼre unsure, talk about the materials and textures you prefer to use, such as wood, marble, or concrete. That way, your designer can better visualise the styles to suit your preferences.

4 DO YOU SUBSCRIBE TO FENGSHUI CONSIDERATIONS?

If you wish to consult a fengshui master, it is best to let your ID know before the design process has begun. This is so that the design of the home can accommodate the fengshui requirements and individual needs, including the colours used, or the need to hack walls for space reconfigurations.

5 WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET?

Knowing how much you are willing to spend allows your ID to determine possible materials and furniture options you can have, and better prioritise certain design elements to best meet your needs.

6 HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND TO LIVE IN THIS HOME?

Your ID can design height-adjustable furniture to accommodate the needs of your growing children, making the money you spend on renovation more worthwhile.

7 DO YOU ENTERTAIN GUESTS OFTEN?

If you often have friends over, you may need more gathering spaces and seating options. Let the designer know so he can decide if thereʼs a need to cut back on the use of bulky built-ins, and incorporate more benches instead, for example.

8 HOW OFTEN DO YOU COOK?

“Maximising space, such as in awkward corners within kitchen cabinets, requires careful planning and designing,” explains Selina Tay, principal designer and director of Collective Designs.

9 DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES OR COLLECTIBLES?

If youʼre a toy collector or bookworm, this calls for plenty of display and storage space in your home.

10 DO YOU HAVE OTHER SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS?

To design a home that best suits your needs and wants, inform your ID about specific requirements such as your very own “man cave”, home theatre, gym, or even mahjong room.

DESIGN Space Sense Studio