Our
process.
Whether you are a homeowner looking to build new or renovate, a multi-family developer embarking on a new project, or a business looking for support on the design of your office, retail or hospitality space, Melling Studio will tailor the experience to your project.
This is how we do it — our design process in ten phases. It keeps us grounded, shapes our work, and is a continual source of inspiration.
01 Discovery
We meet to review the project scope, budget, deliverables, and programming. We begin with an in-depth exploration to understand our client’s values, aesthetic, lifestyle, and expectations for the project.
Key Elements:
Programming
Values
Aesthetic & Lifestyle Analysis
02 Schematic
We gather inspiration and start to explore the big picture concept. We use imagery and finish samples to communicate materiality options, and workshop space planning in combination with sketch elevation studies to demonstrate how a space can feel.
Key Elements:
Initial Concept
Material Studies
Space Planning
03 Development
Based on the feedback provided in the Schematic Phase, we refine the design concept with more detailed floorplans, interior elevations and millwork details. We assemble interior finish, fixture and furniture specifications.
Key Elements:
Refined Concept
Floorplans
Elevations
Millwork Details
Finish & Fixture Specifications
04 Tender
We share project documentation and facilitate communication between parties bidding on the project. We coordinate with vendors, contractors and clients to value engineer specifications where required to align with the project budget.
Deliverables:
Tender Drawing Package
Vendor Communication
Pricing
Value Engineering
05 Permit
We prepare the Building Permit drawing set and liaise with the contractor, consultants and city to support the application process on behalf of the project and client.
Deliverables:
Building Permit Drawing Set
Coordination
06 Construction
Based on the feedback provided in Tender Phase, the Construction Package is finalized to include a full drawing set as well as finish and fixture specifications. Where required, we participate in the construction administration process to ensure continuity.
Deliverables:
Construction Drawing Set
Specification Package
07 Administration
We participate in the Administration process while Construction is happening to observe progress and continuity. This includes Site Visits, issuance of Site Instructions/Change Orders/RFI’s and correspondence with the construction team. We review shop drawings from key consultants/vendors and provide comments to ensure alignment with design intent.
Deliverables:
Site/Consultant Coordination
Shop Drawing Review
08 Procurement
We prepare a detailed Procurement Budget that may include Furniture, Decorative Lighting, Area Rugs, Accessories, Botanicals, Window Treatments, Wallcoverings, as well as Delivery and Installation. Based on feedback shared during the Schematic and Development Phases and an approved Procurement Budget, we prepare a Procurement Package which includes all final Furniture and Accessories selected for the project. We procure all items on behalf of our client.
Deliverables:
Procurement Budget
Furniture Selection
Procurement Management
09 Installation
We coordinate Delivery and Installation of all items from the Procurement Package to the project site. We liaise with trades, contractors and clients to ensure a smooth and holistic Installation experience. We complete a walkthrough after the install is complete with the client to receive any feedback and fulfill minor changes requested.
Deliverables:
Delivery Coordination
Full Installation Support
10 Reconciliation
We prepare a comprehensive and transparent Reconciliation Package that includes a summary, a folder containing all vendor receipts categorized by type, the Procurement Deposit Invoice and the Procurement Final Invoice.
Deliverables:
Project Accounting
Procurement File Management
Once all the dots are connected, the result is a thoughtful and immersive experience that captivates and inspires.
Let’s discover together.
We welcome collaborations with a diverse array of residential, multi-family, and commercial clients, especially those who appreciate the power of collaboration and embrace curiosity.
Feel free to reach out; we look forward to creating something special together.