Unlocking a transformative design begins with the pivotal role of the interior design concept.
It’s the first and arguably most critical step in our design process.
But what exactly is an interior design concept, and why is it paramount to the success of any project? Let’s explore.
Defining an Interior Design Concept
So, what is an interior design concept?
An interior design concept is a foundational idea or theme that guides the overall design process for a space.
It encapsulates the vision, style, and mood and serves as a blueprint for all design decisions.
A design concept is derived from the client’s goals, functional requirements, and aesthetic preferences, as well as considerations such as the space’s purpose, location, and context.
We like to think of an interior design concept as the strong and stable foundation where the rest of the design is built from. You wouldn’t build walls on top of a cracked foundation, right?
Now that we know what an interior design concept is, let’s discover why an interior design concept is critical to the success of our projects:
“Practice safe design: Use a concept”
– Petrula vrontikis –
Benefits of an Design Concept
We could go on and on with this one but here are the most prevalent reasons why a solid interior design concept contributes to a project’s success:
ESTABLISHES THE VISION
A design concept provides a clear vision for the space. It sets the tone, style, and overall direction for the project. We like to call this the overall “look and feel”.
A design concept answers the following questions: What is the design style? And the aesthetic? What feelings are we trying to evoke? What story are we telling? How does our client want to feel in this space? Which finishes, materials, furniture, colors, and details evoke those feelings? What represents our clients? What practical considerations do we need to make so this space works with, and not fights, our client’s lifestyle?
Without a defined concept, the design process and finished result will lack coherence and direction. In the finished space you will be thinking “one of these things is not like the other” or searching for a common thread and struggling to find it.
There truly are endless possibilities when it comes to an interior. A solid concept narrows down the many possibilities. Which brings us to our next point. An interior design concept…
GUIDES DECISION MAKING
Having an interior design concept helps guide decision making throughout the design process.
It serves as a reference point for selecting materials, colors, furniture, and accessories that align with the desired aesthetic and functional goals.
This helps narrow down the truly hundreds of possibilities when it comes to making selections.
It greatly reduces overwhelm and decisions paralysis because you have a trusty compass guiding your decisions, ensuring you make smart ones.
CREATES COHESION
A design concept guarantees coherence aesthetically and functionally. It ensures that everything selected is telling the same story and ultimately supports the way you want to feel, use, and live in your space.
A well-developed concept ensures that all elements within the space work harmoniously together. It creates cohesion between different design elements, such as furniture, lighting, flooring, and accessories, resulting in a unified and aesthetically pleasing environment.
In short, a strong interior design concept results in the presence of a common thread that is weaved throughout every aspect of the space.
ENHANCES FUNCTIONALITY
Beyond aesthetics, a design concept also considers functionality and practicality. It addresses the specific needs and requirements of our clients.
It informs how we plan your space, so layout, circulation, and usability are optimized.
For example, when designing a space for our clients that love entertaining and socializing, we are thinking about how we can reduce barriers and increase sightlines. An open concept plan invites connection rather than individual rooms that are separated, and not visible, to one another.
An interior design concept not only guides the aesthetic decisions but also the practical details that are incorporated into the overall space plan and design details such as millwork.
A client desiring a minimalist aesthetic probably doesn’t need a ton of open millwork to display accessories. A solid interior design concept ensures we meet your needs and puts your priorities at the forefront.
PROMOTES SUSTAINABILITY AND WELLNESS
We are all about making a positive impact through design whether it be through sustainability or wellness.
These principles are best served intentionally from the onset of a project, defined as a part of the design concept.
Defining these principles as a part of the design concept ensures that every aspect of the design, and decisions made throughout the design process, are considered through the lens of these principles.
Sustainability can be most effective when considered holistically from the project site, mechanical and electrical design, through to the furniture and accessories.
You can do good through design, by promoting sustainability and wellness, it’s just an intention that needs to be defined and set as a part of the interior design concept.
“Architecture is really about well-being. I think that people want to feel good in a space”
– Zaha HADID –
BOOSTS EMOTIONAL CONNECTION
At Lyndsay Bragg Design we have seen and experienced the transformative power of interior design and know that a thoughtfully designed environment positively impacts well-being, productivity, mood, and overall quality of life.
When we design, we are always thinking about how things feel and function for our clients.
A well-executed design concept has the power to evoke emotions and create memorable experiences for our clients.
Whether it’s a cozy residential interior or an inspiring workspace, the right concept can evoke feelings of comfort, productivity, relaxation, or excitement.
Let’s be honest, it’s hard to be inspired, productive, and your best in an environment that is dark, dingy, and outdated. It really affects how you show up.
When we develop a design concept we are always thinking about uplifting, supporting, and inspiring our clients in the best way possible.
Wrapping Up
Honestly, we can’t even think about starting a project without developing a design concept. It’s critical.
An interior design concept is the compass that guides every decision made. It’s the anchor holding things steady when the seas get a little rough and choppy. It helps us makes the best decisions for our clients while ensuring an excellent result.
It’s a part of the reason why working with an Interior Designer elevates a space from nice to breathtaking.
Cheers!
Ready to elevate your space from nice to breathtaking? Get in touch with us today.
