Inside the Studio:
- Trent Kendrick
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Our Five-Step Design Process at Studio Fifth Sunday
Hiring an interior designer might feel like a luxury, but the truth is, it can actually save you money. At Studio Fifth Sunday, we have access to exclusive trade discounts and wholesale pricing that we pass directly to our clients. More importantly, we act as your advocate—every step of the way—ensuring your project runs smoothly, stays on budget, and reflects your true vision.
Here’s how our five-step process works:
1. Design We begin every project with a deep-dive discovery phase. This isn’t something we rush. In fact, it’s the foundation of everything we do. During this step, we get to know you—your lifestyle, your tastes, what inspires you, and what absolutely doesn’t. While some clients want to jump straight into design, we encourage this intentional pause. It ensures we create a space tailored specifically to you, not just something that looks good on a Pinterest board.
Once we understand your goals and the project scope, we begin shaping ideas and collaborating on visual concepts. Depending on the space, this might include moodboards, inspiration pulls, and initial sketches. It’s a fluid and collaborative part of the process. Eventually, we present a comprehensive design concept—complete with layouts, budget, and 3D renderings—to help you fully visualize the space.
2. Materials With a strong design direction in place, we move into sourcing materials. This might mean presenting swatches and samples in the space, or shopping together for larger pieces. We source from trusted vendors and high-quality makers, always balancing quality and cost. Thanks to our industry relationships, we can offer significant savings that retail customers simply don’t have access to. Once materials are finalized, we refine the design accordingly and handle all ordering and delivery logistics.
3. Bids With the design and materials finalized, we prepare detailed drawings and clear specifications to obtain accurate contractor bids. You’re not locked into a single team like in a traditional design-build model. Instead, we gather multiple bids—whether from our trusted partners or contractors you already have in mind—so you can compare and make an informed decision. We help demystify this stage by eliminating ambiguity, ensuring bids reflect the actual scope of work and true material requirements.
4. Construction Once construction begins, we remain deeply involved. We attend regular site visits and walkthroughs with you and your contractor to track progress, resolve challenges quickly, and maintain design integrity. Our role is to be the calm in the storm—helping interpret technical questions, ensuring the work matches the vision, and making sure the process stays on course.
5. Installation The final flourish. After construction wraps, we install all the furnishings, artwork, and accessories that bring your space to life. We source from a curated range of vendors to match your aesthetic and budget. Thoughtful styling and those small finishing touches ensure your space feels layered, intentional, and truly complete.
Why Work With Studio Fifth Sunday? We're not just designers. We're advocates, guides, and partners in the creative journey of transforming your space. You gain access to the design trade, transparent pricing, collaborative creativity, and the confidence of knowing that someone is in your corner from concept through completion.
Curious about what your project could become? Let’s start the conversation.
Looking for design tips and ideas? Download our Design Tips and Guides.
Until next time, stay inspired. - Trent
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