MintyWorks Process

Overview

Our Distinctive Approach to Design
Most interior designers opt for sterile, cookie-cutter results, often missing the essential warmth of a personal space. We reject that impersonal approach. Our mission is to move beyond magazine-stamped uniformity, instead showcasing true warmth and personality to deliver a sublime, inviting “settle-in” wow factor for every client. This commitment to unique, soul-filled design is backed by 25 years of experience, ensuring that every residential room or commercial space we touch comes together expertly and flawlessly.

The Value of Shared Confidence
The most significant benefit of the extraordinary MintyWorks process is the elimination of risk and the establishment of full client confidence. With Vision Boards, 3D layouts, and space needs before construction, we proactively identify and resolve potential issues — such as poor circulation or unsuitable furniture scale — that are invisible on a 2D drawing.

We’ll start your new interior design project by determining your specific wishes.

If your project requires new furnishings or renovation work, we’ll begin with a design meeting focused on space planning and conceptual design ideas. The goal is to clearly establish the design direction for the entire project.

This is also the time to:

Review the budget.
Establish a preliminary timeline.

All cost estimates for materials, furnishings, and labor will be sourced from our various partner vendors. We will always recommend the best vendor options for your project.

This invaluable process ensures that budget is not wasted on costly material changes or construction rework, ultimately guaranteeing that your beautiful, functional, and personalized space aligns perfectly with a shared vision.

The Interior Design Process in Detail

While the exact steps can vary based on the design and the project's complexity (e.g., renovation versus decorating), the journey generally moves through five distinct phases in 10 steps.

1. Initial Contact and Consultation (The Discovery Phase)

We start with a brief free discovery call or visit where I assess the basic scope of work and determine if the project is a good fit. If alignment exists, the next step is often the Initial Design Work Meeting wherein a more detailed interview takes place to determine client's needs, discuss lifestyle in more detail, functional challenges, aesthetic goals, and review initial inspiration photos.

2. Initial Design Work

This meeting is launched with a Design Fee Deposit and is crucial for detailed design work. The deposit secures time in our project schedule, and covers the hours spent on the initial phase, which includes: Visit(s) to your location so that I and my partner can capture all measurements, followed by the conceptual work such as vision boards, floor plans, and budgeting. Note: Should you proceed with the project, 90% of the Design Fee Deposit is credited back toward the total design fees for the project. Critically, this is where the budget and timeline are first discussed in detail. I gather all essential information needed to prepare a formal proposal.

3. Measurements and Photos

Pending scheduling availability for both parties, I and my partner will carefully document the space, measure and photograph what exists. Following the consultation, we prepare a detailed Project Proposal. 1–2 Weeks time needed to prepare the proposal; client's review/negotiation time; receipt of retainer. This document summarizes the understanding of the project, outlines the Scope of Work (which rooms or services are included), and presents the Fee Structure (e.g., flat fee, hourly rate, or a combination). Once the client accepts the proposal and submits the Design Fee Deposit, this kicks off the design work!

4. The Vision Board

I then develop the Conceptual Design. This involves translating the client's desires into a cohesive vision. The main deliverable is often the Concept Board (or Vision Board), which presents the overall style, color palette, material direction, and general aesthetic. Preliminary furniture layouts (space plans) are created to define function, and a high-level preliminary budget is presented to ensure the vision aligns with the financial parameters. The client must formally review and approve this concept before the project can move forward. Once the client approves the design documents and budget, signs the agreement and pays the next deposits (estimated billable hours for the following phase), the Detailing Phase can begin. 3–6 Weeks depending on project complexity; time needed for site measures; client speed in providing feedback and final concept approval.

5. The Detailing Phase

This is the most time-intensive phase, where the design moves from a broad concept to detailed, actionable plans. I undertake detailed sourcing and specification. Every item—from sofas and lighting to paint colors and plumbing fixtures—is selected, measured, and specified. Detailed floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings are created to illustrate the final design. For renovations, I will collaborate with personally vetted contractors to present items like electrical and plumbing plans. A refined, locked-in budget is presented for the client's approval in a formal Project Agreement. This legal document includes the specific terms of engagement, payment schedules, and defines the responsibilities of both parties. 90% of the Initial Design Fee is also credited against the client's project costs.

6. Procurement and Purchasing (The Ordering Phase)

Once the client approves the final design documents and budget, and pays the necessary deposits (often 100% of the cost of goods), the Procurement Phase begins. MintyWorks places all orders with vendors, managing the complex process of tracking lead times, confirming specifications, and handling logistics. During this phase, I monitor all items, coordinate freight, and manage communication with manufacturers. To mitigate risk, large items are typically delivered to a professional, third-party receiving warehouse where they are inspected for damage and stored securely until the site is ready for installation. 4–12+ Months This is the longest variable as it depends on lead times for custom furniture, imported items, and construction materials (supply chain issues often extend this phase). MintyWorks is known for sourcing from the fastest, most reliable sources, so often this has shortened to two months!

7. Construction/Renovation Administration (The Building Phase)

If the project involves construction, this phase runs concurrently with procurement. I will serve as the client's representative, ensuring the design intent is maintained during the build-out. This includes site visits to review progress, answering technical questions from the contractor, and resolving unexpected issues that inevitably arise. MintyWorks ensures that materials arriving on-site match the approved specifications and I act as the crucial liaison between the client and the contracting team. Time: 8–24 Weeks depending on scope of construction; permitting time; contractor's schedule; and inspection schedules.

8. Installation and Project Completion (The Reveal Phase)

This is the highly anticipated culmination of the project. Installation Day (or Week) occurs after all construction is complete and the site is cleaned. MintyWorks coordinates the transport of all stored goods from the warehouse to the site. The team unpacks, places, and installs all furnishings, artwork, and accessories. This is often followed by a professional photo shoot (with client permission). 1–3 Days depending on the number of items being installed; coordination with movers and art installers.

9. Final Walk-Through and Punch List

Once the installation is complete, I conduct a final walk-through with the client. Together, we create a Punch List—a document detailing minor deficiencies or missing items (e.g., a scratch on a cabinet, a missing screw cover, or a back-ordered item). MintyWorks manages the resolution of these remaining issues with the relevant vendors or contractors. 1–4 Weeks depending on the speed of vendors/contractors in addressing remaining items (out of the MintyWork's control).

10. Final Invoicing and Closing

After the punch list items have been addressed and the client is satisfied, MintyWorks issues the Final Invoice for any remaining design fees or outstanding balances for furnishings and services. Upon receipt of final payment, the contract is concluded. The client is now enjoying their fully realized space, and the designer has officially wrapped up the project. 1 Week is the standard invoicing and payment processing time. This structured approach ensures that every detail, from the initial sketch to the final throw pillow, is handled professionally, resulting in a cohesive and high-quality finished product.

Give Teresa a Call!

It all starts with a conversation.

Reach out, let’s see what you have in mind!