WMI: The Importance of Working With Construction Teams

Some people see interior designer skills as limited to paint colours and fancy sofas with matching cushions. In some cases, this may be a fact, but unless your interior design firm has an excellent working knowledge of the entire build and construction process, you will pay the price no matter the size of your project.

Good interior designers need to be on-site almost from the inception of your new build or renovation. You love that luxury bath, the kitchen centre island and the bulkhead’s subtle lighting. Unless your electrical, plumbing and build parameters are not professionally specified from the start, they may not become a reality. Contractors frequently find themselves re-working points and pipes at an additional cost to your budget. We all have experienced the frustration of repositioning side tables, yet there is no power to plug in the designer lamp.

Whether you are embarking on a significant build, decorating or purchasing décor, your interior design team needs to plan, plan again, and make a plan when challenges arrive. Collaboration, professional communication and timing are critical factors from contracting an architect to the final handover. For example, in an ideal world, soft furnishings, kitchen cabinetry, and expensive Italian tiles would arrive on site after labourers had cleared the area. This is rarely possible; costly damages become a real problem so please think about the following:

– Who will receive them on-site?
– Who will check the bill of quantities?
– Are you receiving the correct products?
– Were the goods damaged from the factory or in transit?
– Who is authorised to sign for your purchases?
– Is there access to their destination?
– Do you have enough storage space?
– How will you protect such items from damage?
– Who will be liable when damages occur?

At Wanda-Michelle Interiors, the team has over twenty years of experience helping clientele avoid the potential pitfalls and risks related to your project. Not only does their ethos ensure your design aspirations become a reality, but sound financial prudence and management become paramount to your successful project.

WMI offers professional interior design, decorating and décor services throughout South Africa with offices in Cape Town and Johannesburg.