Pictured above is the Moroccan tile by Edgewater Studio, a tile manufacturer based in Vancouver, BC. For more on Edgewater read on.

In our last blog post we discussed why and how to support local manufacturers when purchasing furniture, fixtures, building materials and finishes. In upcoming entries in this series we’ll be highlighting local manufacturers, so if you have a favorite company in and around the Okanagan that you think deserves a little exposure, let us know. This week, we’re featuring a few local manufacturers of flooring and tile products.

Hardwood

Due to the warm look and feel, variety available, durability, and potentially sustainable benefits, hardwood has become a very popular flooring material both in residential and commercial design.

Koeda Forest Products
Koeda Forest Products is a manufacturer located in Kelowna, BC offering high quality, custom finished, wood flooring products both solid and engineered (as well as baseboards, crown moulding, casings and more). A variety of wood species are available and the team will create any style, color, or level of distressing upon request.

Pictured above is a custom hardwood product manufactured by Koeda Forest Products in Kelowna, BC.

Wide Plank Hardwood Ltd.
Wide Plank Hardwood Ltd., located in Chilliwack, BC, is a leading manufacturer of wide plank, longer length hardwood flooring. Their products are milled from new, reclaimed, and recycled wood offering a variety of species to select from. The finish or distress placed on their products is completely customizable.

Looking for hardwood made from new or reclaimed sources similar to what you see above?
Wide Plank Hardwood Ltd., in Chilliwack, BC has got it.

Rubber

Rubber flooring is made from synthetic, but often recycled materials and offers a high level of durability, resistance to denting, as well as a quiet and comfortable surface. It is often used in commercial spaces, home gym settings, playground surfacing, and even rooftop patios.

Dynoflex Group
For 20 years Dynoflex Group has been manufacturing high quality recycled rubber products right here in Salmon Arm, BC. The manufacturing processes is environmentally sensitive and their products come with FloorScore certification and an ecoScorecard.

Not only are the rubber products (pictured above) by Dynoflex manufactured in Salmon Arm, BC, but they are also made with recycled content.

Tile

There are so many different tile surfacing products available from ceramic, to porcelain, metal, glass, and concrete. Tile is durable, most often water resistant, fire resistant, and available in every style under the sun.

Edgewater Studio
Located in Vancouver, BC Edgewater Studio makes exceptionally unique custom tiles in a range of patterns, colors and finishes. They specialize in combining their creative talents with modern technology to create refreshing, yet enduring styles.

Pictured above are a couple of the original, custom tile patterns made by Edgewater Studio in Vancouver, BC.

Interstyle Ceramic and Glass
With manufacturing based in Burnaby, BC Interstyle Ceramic and Glass has pioneered the production of modern fused glass tiles. Their wall and floor tile products include fused glass, recycled glass, specialty patterns, and custom glazed ceramic. They also offer distinctive architectural glass surfaces for countertops, tables, partitions and more.

Interstyle Ceramic and Glass, a tile manufacturer in Burnaby, BC is capable of providing custom tile mosaics such as the one pictured above.

Have a favorite local manufacturer? Let us know and we may feature them in an upcoming entry.

» Want to include local building materials, fixtures, furniture or finishes on your commercial Interior Design project? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – because good design is good business.

Why source locally?

1. Using locally manufactured materials can greatly reduce your carbon footprint.
This is a simple concept. The less traveling your product has to do, the less fossil fuels are burned resulting in less harmful emissions released into our atmosphere.

An 800km radius from our office meets LEED’s requirements for locally manufactured materials. Read on to learn more.

2. Sourcing locally manufactured materials supports your community.
Supporting your local manufacturers, whatever the product may be, helps the local economy and keeps money within the community. This in turn contributes to the future success of your regional area. Supporting the smaller operations who are there to serve your region specifically allows the mom and pop shops to continue doing business against the big box and online stores.

3. Personal attention.
Ok, so we all know how easy ordering products online has become. And the prices attached to those items coming from all over the world can be a great deal less than purchasing from someone who actually makes the product locally. But what happens when you have a problem with that product? Is someone going to fly to your place of business the next day to take a look, fix the problem or replace the product with a new one they brought along just in case? Nope.
One of the beautiful things about working with the local manufacturers is their proximity and availability when you need them.

4. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation
If your project is going for LEED accreditation you will gain valuable points by sourcing materials locally. The definition of local as far as LEED is concerned is 500 miles, or just over 800 kilometers. In order to gain the various points available the material or product must be extracted, processed and manufactured within this radius.

The Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) is active in promoting green design in Canada. One of the programs they run is LEED which promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability.

How to source locally?

1. Talk to people around you in the community.
Talking with your neighbours, business colleagues and friends is a great way to learn about potential manufacturers in your community. You can also ask the local manufacturers you have met or are considering to source from who they know, chances are that they will be able to recommend other local contacts.

2. Attend local networking events.
Networking events are another excellent way to meet or learn about your local manufacturers. Going to a regularly scheduled, well attended, well established networking event will provide you with direct contact or recommendation to that specific material or product you are looking for.

3. Yellowpages.
Not everyone uses the phonebook these days, but you can find the same information online. Whether you are flipping through the Yellowpages old school style or using the internet, the Yellowpages continue to be an excellent resource to find any business in your area.

4. Look to the past.
Take a walking trip around your area and pay close attention to the older buildings. The materials you see used on and in them were most likely sourced locally and should give you an idea of the types of materials you should be able to find manufactured in and around your community.

Kelowna’s Laurel Packing House was completed in 1918. The interior boasts beautiful old wood timber and floors.

5. Word of mouth.
Word of mouth is a powerful tool, so if you have had a great experience with a local manufacturer please ensure to pass that information on to anyone interested. Share your amazing contact with other designers in your area, your friends and colleagues, and be sure to write a shining testimonial for the owners to show off. This is another way that you can help on the sustainability front.

Over the next few posts we will be showcasing some local manufacturers who we have learned about and worked with over the years.

» Want to know more about how to support your local community for your commercial Interior Design project? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Solutions for the Modern Workplace.

Today’s collaborative modern offices include areas like “quiet zones” pictured above.

Image: Teknion

Technology has allowed for business collaboration to happen just about anywhere. Improvements in technology including cloud computing, smart phones, instant messaging, and wireless internet accessibility, has a very dynamic effect on the way we work and, in turn, the way we design an interior space. A trend we are seeing in commercial interior design relates to technology and the idea of bringing people together in a virtual workplace.

Interior designers are able to foster opportunities for interaction within an office setting often leading to increased productivity.

Image: Teknion

Collaboration
In a technological world, knowledge gained is knowledge shared. Office productivity is now stemming from socialization between colleagues rather than solitary work. Increasing the emphasis on collaborative spaces optimizes these opportunities for interaction. This is why, more and more often, space is being dedicated to gathering places rather than private, dedicated offices. Although we’re seeing a separation of quiet and collaborative areas, the allotted space is more heavily weighted towards collaboration.

By introducing touchdown stations into the interior design plan, the physical space required for more mobile workers can be significantly decreased.

Image: Global

Virtual Office
Collaborative environments, created by improvement in technology, also cultivate the opportunity for a virtual office. Technological advances (smart phones, instant messaging, email, and cloud computing) allow for colleagues and clients to communicate without a permanent meeting space. This shift in communication has lead to a significant decrease in the amount of physical space required by an organization. To address this, modern office interiors often include shared touchdown spaces for individuals working in a mobile way. One hundred percent of work cannot be completed virtually, so often these shared workstations provide a part-time workplace for multiple mobile workers.

Technology has paved the way for a paperless, collaborative office, both reducing the spatial needs of an organization.

Image: Steelcase

Smaller Workstations
It is a fact that the typical workstation has decreased by as much as 40% since 1980. There are a number of factors leading to this decrease, but technology is among the largest factor. Technology has allowed for the advancement of the “paperless” office. A reduction in paper use translates directly to a decrease in storage space required, and thus, to a decrease in the area required for work activities. A shift to collaborative work environments from private enclosed offices has also promoted this decrease in area allotted per worker.

Looking for another perspective regarding technology and its effect on the interior design of office spaces? Check out this video from leading furniture manufacturer Teknion.

» Does your office design promote productivity? Need an update? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Design Solutions for the Modern Workplace.

Sculptural staircases like this one designed by Tetrarc Architects, may entice people to use the stairs rather than the elevator. Often a conversation piece, stairs such as this can become a magnet for positive social interaction.

It’s not news that our population is becoming increasingly overweight and unhealthy due to lack of activity. In response to this, there is a trend towards healthy eating and increased promotion of exercise. Ironically enough, TV shows such as Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution or The Biggest Loser endorse this healthier lifestyle. But what if the promotion of healthy living was slightly more subliminal, by way of design if you will? Would we predict a rise in the health of a community? You betcha! This sector of Interior Design and Architecture, termed “active design” is a growing industry trend and for good reason.

This staircase, located at the Museum of Modern Art, uses clear glass, large wide treads, and a visible location to entice visitors to avoid the elevator. Photo credit: Cornelis Verwaal.

According to Dr. Karen Lee, director of New York City’s Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Control, Interior Designers can have a major impact on the health of a community. In fact, the City of New York actually went to the length of creating “Active Design Guidelines” to direct design professionals in making decisions that encourage physical activity and foster well-being (example: taking the stairs vs. using the elevator).

How can Interior Designers aid in promoting healthy living?

Attractive Circulation
Corridors and stairs should be centrally situated, easily located, spacious, inviting, and filled with natural light. By making hallways and stairwells more inviting and safe, people are more likely to use them. In fact, if designed well, circulation spaces can actually be areas for social engagement. Furthermore, elevators can be made less enticing by use of slower, more inconvenient technologies.

Meaningful Spaces
As designers we should promote the application of “healthy” features such as water fountains (reducing the intake of unhealthy beverages), or green outdoor gardens. To entice users to frequent those areas, Interior Designers should highlight passageways to water fountains or outdoor living spaces in an aesthetically appealing manner.

Offering places to store bikes and areas to change and shower in commercial interiors often facilitates a healthy lifestyle as employees are more inclined to ride to work.

Accessible Nutrition
Areas such as gymnasiums, cafeterias, or staff rooms should be stocked with nutritional food options to make eating healthy convenient. Such spaces should also be situated centrally so they are easier to access, should have outdoor views, and should be flexible to accommodate a variety of users.

Activity Support
The commercial Interior Design community has the ability to foster and support active living by incorporating access to outdoor spaces with terraces or covered areas, introducing bike racks or bike storage, and providing showers for staff members.

For more information via the whitepaper “Active Design” written by Katherine Vansittart click here.
For more information via NY City’s “Active Design Guidelines” click here.

» Do your clients and staff deserve a healthier workplace? We can help! Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Design Solutions for the Modern Workplace.

Constant innovations are being made on the sustainable front, including attractive compact fluorescent bulbs. Pictured above: Plumen bulb by Hulger.

Environmental Responsibility

We know that we have damaged our beautiful Mother Earth and that we have depleted many of the natural resources she offers. The construction industry is a major culprit in this regards, but manufacturers of materials are stepping up to the plate to make their products more environmentally friendly. Recycled content, use of recyclable ingredients, reducing or eliminating harmful toxins, and reusing or reclaiming materials are just a few of the ways they are doing this. Stay tuned for our upcoming series with useful tips for selecting sustainable materials.

The Jim Pattison Centre for Excellence by CEI Architecture is an excellent example of sustainable design. Pictured above: Gymnasium with radiant concrete/wood walls panels.

As Interior Designers we are always looking for ways to reduce the impact of our designs on the environment. This is done through process, research and implementation of innovative or tried and true practices like these:

• For a renovation, careful inventory is done prior to the space planning phase to determine what is existing and what can be reused. The best case scenario for reuse is when something can remain as-is, but other opportunities to refinish, relocate or reconfigure existing items are also investigated.
• Research and proposal of environmentally friendly material options.
• Informed design of lighting for energy efficiency.
• Passive design strategies considering daylight, solar gain and the potential for natural ventilation.

Energy and Water Efficiency

Incorporating energy and water efficient fixtures not only helps reduce your carbon footprint, it also reduces your utility bills every month. It’s a win-win as far as we’re concerned!

Manufacturers have made selecting water efficient washroom and staff room fixtures a simple task. High efficiency toilets (HETs) and dishwashers, and low flow faucets with aerators are a couple ways to use less water.

While this toilet/sink doesn’t suit most projects, it is a great example of water efficiency by incorporating a dual flush system using grey water from the sink. Pictured above: Profile Smart toilet by Caroma.

Constant innovations are being made in lighting technology, specifically energy efficient lighting. There are specific wattage requirements that your commercial space must meet to adhere to the regulations set out in the Canadian Electrical Code. Working with professionals to design the lighting of your space is imperative to ensure an effective lighting scheme for your space while meeting the code requirements.

Community

The true definition of sustainability is an all encompassing one that includes supporting the communities you live in or that are close to you. In most cases you will not be able to source everything your project requires locally, but you may be surprised at the talent located just outside your door. Utilizing products from local artists and manufacturers is one way to give back your community and show appreciation for their talents. To put a green spin on this point the product does not have to travel which cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions. And, hey!, you don’t pay for the delivery charges either.

The Centre for Excellence at Okanagan College is designed to the standards of the Living Building Challenge with strict guidelines on materials used and where they are sourced from. Locally sourced pine beetle wood was used extensively throughout. Designed by CEI Architecture.

Conclusion

The sustainability movement has come a long way in the past 10 years, but also has a long way to go. The more we can educate our Clients, families and friends about the sustainable options available to them the further the movement will go, and before too long, it will be the norm.

» Interested in working with a LEED accredited Interior Design firm for your commercial project? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Solutions for the Modern Workplace.

Commercial spaces are getting smaller for a number of reasons, read on to find out why. Pictured above: Kruikantoor by Tim Vinke.

Introduction

In North America we have a nasty little habit – bigger is better. Well, this is one statement that seems to be changing when it comes to private commercial spaces. We are noticing a trend; business owners are selecting smaller spaces. There are a number of reasons for this:

Increasing Rent
As city centers grow and revitalize, commercial spaces have become increasingly expensive. With the cost per square foot on the rise, it only makes sense that business owners are looking to compress their companies into smaller spaces.

Location, Location
As always, your location could make or break your business – a great location often results in a company’s ability to win a larger market share. Depending on your industry you may be looking for a location that’s highly visible, located in a popular complex, has street access, or offers ample parking – all of these factors can lead to increased lease rates. We have found that many companies are choosing higher rent spaces in better locations over larger spaces in less optimal locations.

Smoking Lily, a 44 sq. ft. clothing store in Victoria, BC is a prime example of a great location taking precedence over the size of the space.

Slow Economy
It’s no secret that the economy in North America has significantly slowed in recent years. A slow economy can, for many businesses, lead to lower profits. Although the economy has slowed, rental rates seem to have increased forcing many businesses to consider smaller locations in order to survive.

Sustainability
Although a future blog entry in this series will divulge further on this topic, there is a huge shift towards spaces considered “sustainable”. Although sustainability often refers to a decreased environmental impact, it also pertains to the longevity of a space. Smaller spaces require fewer, or in some cases, smaller furniture, fixtures, and materials. Smaller spaces typically use less energy as well – all of these things making them more sustainable.

The technological age is driving the switch to smaller offices thus spurring the need for compact, multifunctional desks that are shared by multiple employees. Pictured above: Fusion by Watson Desking.

Technology
Again, we’ll expand upon this in a future blog entry in this series, but technology has a huge impact on the way commercial spaces are designed and how they function. Businesses are moving towards cloud computing systems, keeping their staff connected with laptops, smart phones, and tablets from any location. This means that fewer dedicated workstations are required, leading to smaller physical business locations.

Specialized Industry
In order to remain competitive, many companies are becoming more specialized in regards to the products or services they sell. Rather than being everything to everyone we are seeing a shift to increasingly focused business models with a more boutique flavor. Pairing down usually allows your business to sell fewer things, often resulting in smaller physical footprints.

Conclusion

A major trend in commercial interior design is the move to smaller spaces. Increasing rent, the pursuit of better locations, a slow economy, a shift to sustainable spaces, a technology driven culture, and specialized business models are all factors that have lead to this trend.

» Need help condensing your business into a smaller space? We can help with effective space planning. Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Solutions for the Modern Workplace.

Ultra Supper Club, Toronto, Ontario. Designed by Castor.

1. Freshening up your look can attract new customers and keep existing ones.

We all know that this is true for hospitality and entertainment enterprises. When a restaurant, night club, bar or theatre renovates their space everyone wants to go check it out. These types of social venues can completely revive their businesses by providing interior spaces that people want to spend time in.

But how does renovating in a tough economic climate attract attention to other types of businesses?

Retail business owners understand the value of their showroom design. The more time a customer spends in their store, the more likely they are to spend some money. Even a small facelift can pique the interest of both new and existing customers, and keeping up to date in style shows that you are with the times and care about your retail business’ image.

For personal service business like Lawyers, Real Estate Agencies, Investment Brokers, and Accountants, updating your space says a lot to your customers about the state of your company. A level of trust must be established with new and existing clients that you are stable enough to provide the long lasting care that is typically sought out in these types of services. Updating your space when times are tough can give your clients the confidence that you are positioned to endure the downturn and continue to provide the professional or personal services you are known for.

Dental Clinic, Victoria, British Columbia. Designed by Inoui Design Collective.

2. Cost of materials and labour is cheaper.

Anyone who completed a construction project during the Okanagan boom can attest to extremely high material and contractor pricing. During that time it was often quite difficult to find contractors to complete work, especially when it was on a small scale.

Construction is one of the first things to halt during a recession. Projects are put on hold, building start-ups are delayed and construction business owners are often forced to cut down the size of their crews to stay afloat.

The recession’s slowdown of the construction industry means that contractors must have a more competitive edge to acquire work. Deciding to renovate your space before the market picks up again could mean a great cost savings to your business. It also means that you are supporting contractors within your community at a time when they need it most, an integral aspect of sustainability that adds to the value of a project.

Red Velvet Vintage & Pretty Things. Springfield, Missouri.

3. Renovating when it is slow means less disruption when business picks up.

The market is already starting to pick up, but waiting to renovate until your business is back in full swing may mean not renovating at all. Renovations are disruptive to your daily business and will entail closing up shop or attempting to operate in the middle of a demolition and construction zone. Better to do this when things are slower so that you are ready in your new digs to do business when you need to.

The design and renovation process also takes some of your valuable time, whether it be meeting with your Interior Designer, interviewing General Contractors, or setting up your space once the construction is complete. When business gets busy it’s great to be able to give 100% to running it and ensuring your clients and customers are receiving the attention they deserve.

Conclusion

Your potential and existing clients are enticed by the new and the creative. Creating a buzz about your upcoming new look will generate excitement and pique the interest of your new and old customers. Strengthening your brand and updating your look can be tackled with a wide range of budgets, you don’t have to break the bank give your business’ interior a facelift. If your renovation is done well it can give your company the boost it needs during a recession.

» Does your commercial interior need a boost? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, BC – Inspired Interiors for a Modern World.

Both Architects and Interior Designers have established relationships with a variety of Contractors who can participate in the project tender. Additionally they are able to recognize contractors who will best fit your project goals allowing you to obtain the best combination of pricing, quality, and scheduling.

Sovereign Cycle Under Construction - Week 2

That being said, whether you are working with a design consultant or not, you (the Client and Owner), will be the one hiring the General Contractor, so it is extremely important to make sure you do your homework. Read on for a few tips to make the process of hiring a General Contractor a little less daunting. We’ll touch on:

• Licenses and Permits
• Insurance
• References
• Contract Terms
• and More.

Licenses and Permits
Like any business, General Contractors are required by law to have a current business license through the municipal Government. These licenses expire yearly, so when you ask to see it, inspect it closely to ensure it’s current. Municipal Governments also provide permits for various trades: mechanical (heating, cooling, plumbing), electrical, and renovation. Although these permits and licenses do not ensure a quality tradesperson, they are important to have.

Sovereign Cycle Under Construction - Week 3

Insurance
Make sure your General Contractor carries the proper insurance to cover any accidents that could occur on the job site. There are a variety of insurance types, your Contractor should have all of them. These include insurance against damage to the existing condition of the job site, injury of any workers, and replacement of any on site equipment or materials. If the Contractor does not have insurance, demand that they obtain some – temporary coverage is available.

Sovereign Cycle Under Construction - Week 4

References
If the Contractor is experienced and able to perform quality work, they will be able to provide solid references from other trades and previous clients. It seems like a lot to ask, but they should be able to easily supply at least 20 current people and/or businesses for you to interview. You don’t have to call every reference or interview them in great detail, but randomly selecting at least 5 from the list should provide the information you need. What sorts of questions should you ask?

• Did the Contractor complete the project on time? If not, were they able to work with the Client to satisfy and complete the project within a satisfactory timeline?
• Was the project completed on budget? If not, were they able to work with the Client to satisfy and complete the project within a satisfactory budget?
• Were there any problems on the job? If so, how were they handled?
• Was the Contractor respectful and easy to work with?
• Were there any unexpected or disputed charges? If so, were they addressed in a satisfactory manner?
• Were they happy with the end result? Have there been any deficiencies after project completion, and if so, how were they handled?

After your interviews, go to past projects in order to view some of the Contractor’s finished work.

Sovereign Cycle Under Construction - Week 7

Terms
Always put the terms of your verbal agreements into a written format. Your Interior Designer or Architect should be able to provide you with a contract for your use. The contract should include:

• Date,
• Identification of the Owner and Contractor,
• Project Specifications, or a reference to a drawing set,
• The scope of work, the expectations of the Owner and the Contractor,
• The proposed start and completion date,
• Times/days the Contractor is provided access to the job site,
• Outline of compensation and payment (refer to note below),
• Address a warranty period,
• Outline requirements for permits, licenses and insurance,
• Identify the required level of expertise of any Personnel working on the project, and
• Names and Signatures of the Owner, Contractor, and Witnesses.

Note, we always recommend “holdbacks”. The Contractor will invoice the Owner, the owner submit payment based on work completed minus a 10-15% holdback amount. At successful completion of the work, the Owner then releases any holdback amounts to the Contractor.

Sovereign Cycle - Complete!

Miscellaneous:
Here are a few additional tips to help you avoid selecting the wrong Contractor:

• Do your research and narrow your bidders list to 3 Contractors. Ask each Contractor to provide a quote to ensure you are getting a fair price. When doing this make sure each Contractor has been given the same information to quote on, so you can make an equal comparison. All submitted quotes should include a description of the scope of work.
• Check the Better Business Bureau to make sure there are no negative claims against the Contractor.
• Deposits or retainers for a Contractor should never be more than 15% up front. Sometimes a Contractor will need a small deposit (i.e. $2500) to secure his time. Then once he arrives with his tools on site, the remainder of the deposit is required.
• Only agree to payment schedules based on completion of work – not based on time.
• Ensure you Contractor has obtained the necessary permits. If you aren’t sure which permits are required, contact your Municipal Government.
• Do not pay your Contractor in cash; always use a cheque or certified cheque. Also ask for a receipt for any payments you have made. This way you can keep track of any money paid in case the project does go off-course.
• Last but not least, if something doesn’t feel quite right, it probably isn’t. Listen to your instincts – they are often right.

Now go get yourself a Contractor! Good Luck!

» Need an Interior Designer who can design your workplace and help you find a Contractor? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Design Solutions for the Modern Workplace.

The more information you can provide, the better. A well thought out and accurate RFP will save time for both you and your designer, and will also save you money in the long run. You may not have information to provide regarding all of the items listed below (there may be some that are revealed during the design process), but any insight you can provide from the get-go is beneficial to your project and to the designers you’ve invited to prepare proposals.

What to Include in an RFP

First provide general information about your company and space.

• Name of your company and the specific person to contact in regards to your project. Include the company’s current address, telephone number, email and website address.
• Explain a bit about your company. What kinds of products or services do you provide? Who is your target market?
• Outline the reason for the project. ie. require more space, updating your existing space, rebranding, increasing functionality, etc.

Next you will define the objectives and specific information pertaining to your project.

• Overview of the project. Renovation? Relocation? Expansion? New construction?
• What are your objectives? What do want to achieve with your project? ie. a space that reflects your company’s mandate and branding, a space that inspires your employee’s creativity, utilizing your existing space more effectively, etc.
• Project location.
• Desired construction start date and completion date.
• Size of the space in square feet or metres.
• Your budget for consultant fees and construction. Read on for further detail on this subject.
• The number of employees you have.

Thirdly start to think about and record the specific needs that the Interior Designer must address and accommodate.

• What types of spaces will you need? Indicate how many and/or the total area required. ie. reception/waiting, offices, sales floor, fitting rooms, staff room, boardroom, storage, etc.
• Importance of sustainable practices and if you would like to achieve a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) designation.
• Any other information specific to your project that may be valuable to the Interior Designer. ie. elaborate on any special requirements that your project has.

Another important topic to address is your project’s budget.

Divulging your budget to a potential Interior Design candidate is beneficial for a couple of reasons: a) potential designers should be able to provide insight on whether or not the budget is practical for the project, b) the designer you hire will be able to work within a realistic budget to ensure your project meets this criteria.

• Provide your best estimate project budget.
• Outline what is to be covered within this budget. ie. design and consultant fees, construction, furniture, permits, contingencies, sales tax, etc.
• Let the designer know if you are planning to lease fixtures and/or furniture.

Outline in the RFP what information you have available to the designer regarding the existing space.

Existing drawings that you can acquire should save you time and money, and will provide useful information for the designer in both preparing their proposal and during the design process. Drawings are sometimes available through the landlord, facilities manager, or Real Estate agent.

• Base building drawings, hardcopy or digital.
• Drawings of existing space, hardcopy or digital. This may include architect and engineer’s drawings.

Let the candidates know if you have existing furniture, fixtures or equipment that you will be reusing for your new space.

At this stage the information pertaining to this can be somewhat general, explaining that you will reuse your existing office furniture or that the space you are moving into has a fantastic reception desk that may work perfectly for you.

It often helps for the designers to be able to take a look at the new space or space being renovated.

If you have access to your new space you may include a date and time that candidates may view the site, or set up individual walk-through’s with interested designers.

List the services you expect your Interior Designer to provide.

This typically includes the programming stage to the project administration stage, but there are some optional services throughout the process that you may or may not want. This condensed list will provide an idea of what is and what can be included in each stage of the design process:

Programming

• Investigate and explore the Client’s goals and listen to their ideas.
• Develop an in depth program to address needs and wants of the Client.

Schematic Design

• A site measure of your new or existing space.
• Updates to the owner provided CAD drawing based on existing site.
• Creation of CAD drawing based on existing site conditions.
• Review of building code & local regulations as it pertains to your project.
• Space plan(s).

Design Development

• Basic design development sketches of key ideas and millwork.
• Presentation of recommended finishes, fixtures, and furniture.
• Perspective renderings of the design concept through 3D modeling.

Contract Documents

• A complete set of interior design construction drawings (ready for permits, pricing, and construction): floor plans, ceiling plans/basic lighting plans, basic electrical plans, elevations, details/sections, and finish specifications.
• Coordination with other project consultants.
• Preparation of project phasing plan.

Project Tender

• Preparation of all materials required for building permit application by Client.
• Identifying potential General Contractors/Project Managers to provide a competetive bid on the project.
• Communications with bidders during tender.
• Review of submitted bids with Client.
• Coordination of contract between Client and selected General Contractor/Project Manager.

Project Administration

• Communication with General Contractor over the course of construction.
• Site visits to review any deficiencies and inspect completed work.
• Follow-up documentation as needed to monitor changes and provide direction to the General Contractor.
• Review of progress payment applications as submitted by General Contractor.

Furniture, Fixture and Equipment (FF and E) Procurement

• Coordinate delivery and installation of FF and E.

Going through the above items and preparing an RFP document outlining as much information as possible will help to get your project off on the right foot. If you know what you want, it is easier for your designer to prepare for it. When your designer has the information they need to give you an accurate RFP there will be fewer surprises over the duration of your project. Don’t get us wrong, we do like surprises… but the ones we like involve unexpected weekend road trips or come wrapped in pretty paper, not added cost and extended schedules!

» Renovating or moving your business into a new space and looking for an Interior Designer? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Design Solutions for the Modern Workplace.

How Do You Choose?

If you are moving your business into a new space or renovating your existing space you will most likely be looking for professional Interior Design help. There are many Designers out there so, how do you know who to choose? We’ll arm you with the information you need to make an informed decision by explaining:

• Why all Designers are not created equal,
• How a qualified Designer can benefit you, and
• The steps for finding a qualified Designer.

Registered Interior Designer, Interior Designer, and Decorator – The Difference

First of all, it is important to understand how the title “Registered Interior Designer” (RID) differs from the titles “Interior Designer” or “Decorator”. Each definitely have their place in providing design services for your interiors, but for commercial projects (that typically require advanced technical knowledge and experience) hiring an RID ensures you will receive the highest levels of quality assurance.

Semperviva Yoga Designed by Inoui Design Collective, RID’s in Victoria, BC. Photos by Makito Inomata

In British Columbia, and most provinces except for Ontario and Nova Scotia, the title ‘Interior Designer’ is not regulated. This means that currently anyone can call themselves an ‘Interior Designer’ whether they are qualified or not. To ensure you are working with a qualified professional, make sure you look for a Registered Interior Designer – RID. Information on where you can go to find an RID, is provided a little later in this article.

The Road to Becoming an RID

The road to becoming a Registered Interior Designer (RID) involves many steps that ensure one has the education, experience, and skills necessary that allow them to write the North American examination. The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) is a North American certification association who determines if a potential candidate meets the regulations to write the exam. While the education component has become ever stricter, it is guaranteed that an RID has a combination of education and qualified interior design work experience. Once the education and experience components of the application process have been verified it is time to write the exam. This is no easy task! If writing the entire three parts at once, you are writing three exams over two days, eight hours each day, very intense to say the least.

Designed by KBH Interior Design Inc. in Toronto, Ontario.

Once you have successfully passed the three part NCIDQ exam you are ready to apply with your provincial association in order to practice professionally. But this is not all! Like most professions today, RID’s are required to keep their knowledge up to date by completing a specified amount of continuing education to keep them current and informed.

How can an RID Benefit You?

So, if we still have your attention, we’re sure you’re wondering, “how can working with a Registered Interior Designer (RID) benefit me”? Well because RID’s have a reputable education, depth in experience, and a proven skill set – the highest level of recognition achievable for Interior Designers in BC and North America – they can create a space for your business that should:

• Enhance the quality of life for its occupants;
• Strengthen workplace productivity;
• Increase the frequency of consumer visits;
• Heighten consumer spending; and
• Augment business profitability.

An RID has experience on a variety of project types and their ability to solve problems allow them to create a comprehensive set of drawings – this attention to detail typically leads to fewer on-site changes thus keeping projects on budget and on schedule.

Designed by Shearer Designs, in Calgary, Alberta.

Another benefit to you is that in order to maintain the title “RID” the Designer has to complete a required number of continued education courses each year. Because of this requisite, you can be sure your RID has the most up-to-date industry knowledge with which to apply on your project.

RID’s are also required to carry Professional Liability Insurance and uphold a Professional Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Each of these requirements are of benefit to anyone hiring an RID.

If you would like more information regarding the benefits an RID can bring to your business, check out a variety of Whitepapers by clicking here.

How to Find a Registered Interior Designer

Now that you know about the profession and steps for Designers become qualified, how do you select a Registered Interior Designer (RID) that is right for your project?

Begin by doing some research:
The Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia (IDIBC) has a list on their website citing all RID’s in British Columbia; this will enable you to find a Professional Interior Designer in your area. If you are located outside of British Columbia take a look on the website of the Interior Design Association serving your province for a similar listing of their members. The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) also has a list of certificate holders available on their website. Although having the NCIDQ exam doesn’t make you an RID, it does mean you have met the minimum level for qualification as an Interior Designer in North America.

For a list of Provinces with regulated Interior Design Associations, see the Interior Designers of Canada website.

Check out candidate’s websites to determine what kind of projects the person or firm specializes in. Take a peek at their portfolio and look for references or testimonials.

Design by Sizeland Evans in Calgary, AB.

Meet with or speak to the potential Designers:
It is important that you can connect and effectively communicate with the Interior Designer you select as communication is essential to the success of your project.

When interviewing your potential Interior Designer(s) there are a number of items that the Designer will want to address to ensure they can put a well-informed proposal together. Do some thinking about the following topics prior to the meeting to help facilitate the process:

• Your company’s brand, products and services, and how that relates to your preferred aesthetic style.
• Your timeline and completion date. Keep in mind the more time you are able to give your Designer and Contractor the better. When putting together a proposal, your Designer will consider the timeline – brisk timelines usually result in higher rates.
• Your budget. Be honest and forthcoming about the money you have to spend; a trustworthy designer (which an RID must be as they follow an enforced code of ethics) will work diligently to ensure they are designing within that amount or will tell you if the budget is impractical prior to accepting the project.
• Your existing furniture, fixtures or equipment that you wish to incorporate into the new workplace.
• Your plans for the growth of your business.
• Your values pertaining to green design or sustainability
• Information on any other consultants considered for the project – Engineers (Mechanical/Electrical/Structural), Architects, Lighting Designers, Acoustic Designers, General Contractors.

If most of these items are not addressed by the Interior Designer it might indicate that they are not a correct fit for your project. It’s also a good idea to ask the Interior Designer for references from past clients and other industry professionals.

Designed by Design 360 Inc. in Halifax, NS.

Obtain proposal(s):
Request proposals from one or more of the Designers you are interested in working with. Preparing a detailed ‘Scope of Work’ document beforehand will give the Designer(s) a basis from which to prepare their proposal. More information on preparing a Scope of Work document or Request for Proposal (RFP) will be discussed in an upcoming entry. Review and compare submitted proposals to ensure that the contender(s) has a good understanding of the scope of work involved and that all of the services you require are accounted for. The proposal should outline the terms of the agreement between the Client and Designer.

Award the project:
Make a selection based on the information you have gathered. Consider your timeline, budget, comfort level, and the Designer’s qualifications when making your decision. Make sure there is a written agreement or contract in place – typically this will be provided by the Designer and may be included in the proposal.

While the process may take anywhere from a week to a month, following these steps will have you working with a designer who you are comfortable with and more importantly, confident in. With the right designer the process should be fun and hassle-free, as they will take care to ensure that it is as smooth for you as it can be. Remember a Registered Interior Designer must look out for your best interest.

Good luck with your project!

» Interested in hiring our Registered Interior Designers for your next commercial project? Contact Hatch Interior Design located in Kelowna, British Columbia – Sustainable Interior Design Solutions for the Modern Workplace.