CLIENT QUESTIONAIRE before STARTING A PROJECT.

Is the property in possession right now? Many times clients start planning the interior works way before the property is in possession.

That ‘s ideal for us - it is good planning on the client’s part and it of course gives them and us as designers a head start on the work to be undertaken. Ideally approaching a designer at least 3 month prior to the possession is recommended, gives us ample time to plan, design and execute the project. So yes, understand the possession schedule only then you can plan ahead and start the work accordingly.

Firstly, understand the time you take as a freelance designer/ studio to complete a project. Count all the possible obvious buffer delays and come up with a practical tentative timeline of your own.

Understand that every client has a timeline to shift into their new home. So ask the client theirs and the reasons behind the same.

If it fits in your timeline that's great. However, if it doesn’t, let the client know about it immediately. Explain the reason and why a certain time is necessary to get the work done. Do not commit a false timeline to the client in order to get the project. It is in nobody's interest and just an unethical way of working. When you justify the practical timeline, the client understands things better & can plan and rework the date when they need to shift. It has always worked with us till now, and the clients have appreciated us for giving them clarity.

It is important to understand what the client is looking for, in terms of the design style.

Has the client seen your earlier work and liked it? Is that the reason why they got in touch with you, and want a similar design language ?

Do they like anybody else's work? Why do they like it, breakdown their preferences to get a feel of their aesthetical inclination. Is it the decor that's appealing in the shared references, the fancy furniture or the bright colours? Your questions will help you narrow down your choice of creative solutions.

This is closely related to the above discussed point, however, on a more subconscious level. The answers we usually get here are more like;

• + After the end of a hectic day we are looking for a serene space with a peaceful material palette.
• + We want an opulent home which feels rich.
• + We want an homely yet fun & warm space, it shouldn't seem like a hotel.
• + Some just say it needs to be light shades and airy with minimal furniture. ​

It is difficult for a lot of clients to articulate what they are looking for. They may not say the exact things mentioned above - however once you understand what they want, you have a better chance of connecting with the client. Thus making designing further a piece of cake.

What better point of reference could there be than the present place of residence of the client ! It is extremely important to understand a client's preference when it comes to their homes. If given a chance a visit to their home gives a good insight into their way of living to understand what they like which can be enhanced in the new designs.

This one is as important as the one above. We believe that it's necessary to understand what does not click with the client and what is not to be done, & almost more than half the battle is won.

It can be as simple as the size of the bed, the comfort of the sofa or TV unit in the circulation area.

There is a reason we keep this question for last. Once all the requirements & expectations are conveyed to us by the client we can pretty much gauge the scope of work and the overall design language for the space.

The budget mentioned by the client can then be measured against the above parameters and we can derive the practicality of the project.

Here we are in a position to let the client know that the budget he has in mind is suitable or he needs to top it up a bit to achieve the desired results.

The idea is to set the expectations right the first time itself. No client wants a designer who isn't clear in terms of his offerings or intentions.

Keep in mind that clients aren’t just looking for an attractive design. They also need professional advice, patience, and understanding, plus a little care and acknowledgment. By asking the right client questions, establishing a common ground, and understanding their desires, you can better satisfy your client’s needs and provide an enjoyable experience that’s worth acquiring again in the future.

And hey, who doesn’t want returning clients?

Next time that you’re working on a project keep these client questions in mind and try to start a conversation. Don’t be afraid to ask. Show that you care and avoid making dangerous assumptions. It all starts with the first question that opens doors to many possibilities:

“How better can I design your home?”

( ** Costs usually depend on the scope of work and a project cost differs with finishes used. Every project is customized as per the users. No two projects are alike)