Last updated on Jan 12, 2024
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Define the problem
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Research and brainstorm
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Evaluate and select
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Implement and review
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Here’s what else to consider
Problem-solving is a crucial skill for any interior designer, whether you are working on a residential, commercial, or hospitality project. You need to be able to identify the needs and preferences of your clients, the constraints and opportunities of the space, and the best solutions to create a functional, aesthetic, and sustainable design. In this article, we will explore some of the common steps and strategies that interior designers use to approach problem-solving in their work.
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- Kimberly Rider President at Kimberly Rider Interiors
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- Ayesha Zahid CEO and Founder at Arterior | Architect | Interior Designer | Experienced Design Professional | Head of Projects at…
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1 Define the problem
The first step in problem-solving is to clearly define the problem that you are trying to solve. This involves asking questions, gathering information, and setting goals and criteria for the design. You need to understand the context, scope, and purpose of the project, as well as the expectations and requirements of your clients and stakeholders. You also need to consider the budget, timeline, and regulations that affect the project. Defining the problem helps you to focus your efforts and avoid wasting time and resources on irrelevant or unrealistic solutions.
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- Kimberly Rider President at Kimberly Rider Interiors
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In the past few years, we’ve started having our clients fill out detailed questionnaires. I have noticed however, that open ended questions in person seem to be the most informative. Often times it’s the nuances of peoples body language during a meeting that is way more informative than words on a page, I’ve also noticed in client meetings that couples are not always aligned and it’s interesting to watch that dynamic and help to find a happy meeting point so everyone in the household gets their needs met. There is also a lot of emotion attached to peoples biggest pains in terms of the design problems, and sometimes they don’t know how articulate the issues, but time together in a space can tease that out.
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In interior design, my problem-solving approach prioritizes understanding client needs, analyzing spatial challenges, and staying abreast of design trends. I employ creativity to devise innovative solutions, balancing functionality and aesthetics. Collaboration is key—I engage clients in the design process, ensuring their vision aligns with practical solutions. Attention to detail, flexibility, and a commitment to delivering unique, personalized designs define my problem-solving strategy in creating harmonious and functional interior spaces.
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- Svetlana Evsevleeva Interior designer / 3D Visualiser / SketchUp / V-Ray
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In interior design, my problem-solving approach involves:1. Understanding Client Needs: consulting with the client to grasp their style, needs, and functional requirements of the space.2. Space analysis and planning: using bubble and traffic flow diagrams 3. Developing mood boards and sketches, followed by client feedback and necessary revisions.4. Sourcing materials, furniture, and accessories that align with the design concept and client’s preferences5. Managing the project with detailed planning, timelines6. Conducting final reviews, and adding finishing touches.7. Post-Project Evaluation
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- Marcia Lliuya Gómez 🎓Diseñadora de interiores👷🏻♀️Supervisora de obras👩🏻💻Asistente de proyectos
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Mi enfoque de resolución de problemas en el diseño de interiores se centra en la funcionalidad, la estética y la experiencia del usuario. Busco comprender las necesidades y preferencias del cliente, considerando la optimización del espacio y la creación de ambientes que reflejen su estilo de vida. La innovación y la creatividad son clave para encontrar soluciones únicas y personalizadas, siempre manteniendo un equilibrio armonioso entre forma y función.
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- Marcia Lliuya Gómez 🎓Diseñadora de interiores👷🏻♀️Supervisora de obras👩🏻💻Asistente de proyectos
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Mi enfoque de resolución de problemas en el diseño de interiores se centra en la funcionalidad, la estética y la experiencia del usuario. Busco comprender las necesidades y preferencias del cliente, considerando la optimización del espacio y la creación de ambientes que reflejen su estilo de vida. La innovación y la creatividad son clave para encontrar soluciones únicas y personalizadas, siempre manteniendo un equilibrio armonioso entre forma y función.
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2 Research and brainstorm
The next step in problem-solving is to research and brainstorm possible solutions to the problem. This involves exploring existing examples, trends, and best practices in interior design, as well as looking for inspiration from other fields, disciplines, and sources. You need to be creative, curious, and open-minded, and generate as many ideas as possible without judging or filtering them. You can use various techniques, such as sketching, mind mapping, mood boards, or digital tools, to visualize and communicate your ideas. Researching and brainstorming helps you to expand your options and discover new possibilities for the design.
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- Shikha Chugh Architect + Business Developer
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Gather information about the space, its purpose, and the people who will use it. Research design trends, materials, and technologies that may be relevant to the project. Analyze the architectural and structural aspects of the space.
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- Ayesha Zahid CEO and Founder at Arterior | Architect | Interior Designer | Experienced Design Professional | Head of Projects at SINC | Entrepreneur |
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To kick off a design project, I begin by extensively researching the client's needs, industry trends, and any pertinent constraints. Subsequently, I enter a brainstorming phase to generate diverse creative ideas and potential solutions. This dual strategy ensures a blend of informed insights and innovative concepts for the subsequent stages of the design process.
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3 Evaluate and select
The third step in problem-solving is to evaluate and select the best solution to the problem. This involves analyzing, comparing, and testing your ideas against the goals and criteria that you defined in the first step. You need to be critical, rational, and objective, and consider the strengths, weaknesses, and feasibility of each option. You also need to seek feedback from your clients, colleagues, and experts, and incorporate their suggestions and opinions into your decision. Evaluating and selecting helps you to refine your ideas and choose the most effective and appropriate solution for the design.
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- Ayesha Zahid CEO and Founder at Arterior | Architect | Interior Designer | Experienced Design Professional | Head of Projects at SINC | Entrepreneur |
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Following the research and brainstorming phase, move on to assess the ideas and solutions, considering factors like feasibility, alignment with the client's objectives, and aesthetic appeal. By systematically evaluating these aspects, pinpoint the most promising concepts and make selections that align most closely with the project requirements. This thorough evaluation ensures that the chosen design direction is not only imaginative but also practical and tailored to the client's specific needs.
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4 Implement and review
The final step in problem-solving is to implement and review the solution that you selected in the previous step. This involves executing, delivering, and installing the design according to the specifications, standards, and expectations that you agreed upon with your clients and stakeholders. You need to be organized, attentive, and flexible, and manage the resources, materials, and contractors involved in the project. You also need to monitor, evaluate, and document the results and outcomes of the design, and identify any issues, challenges, or improvements that may arise. Implementing and reviewing helps you to complete the project successfully and learn from your experience.
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- Christa Wilm Christa’s South Seashells Commercial and residential work, Fine Jewelry
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Keep abreast of beautiful books, photos and places so one can stay inspired. A nod to something historical or classic is always a good thing, even in a contemporary design, if it is to be sophisticated room. Remember how travelled we are nowadays, and add nods to clients’ favorite places. Give it a signature by being a leader and not a follower. Too many designs look too similar, in my view. Art and hand-made objects helps that, of course. You can always call me if you want a seashell grotto! Haha. It’s true.
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5 Here’s what else to consider
This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?
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- Nupur Lahoti Workplace Strategist |Design Strategist | Spacial Designer | Human Centred Design Researcher
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The first and foremost thing is about Vison of the project , nailing down your project's vision is like turning on a powerful clarity switch. When your design purpose shines bright, it becomes the guiding star that effortlessly sweeps away uncertainties, leaving you with a roadmap to solve the puzzle of aesthetics and functionality.
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- Malihe Amini Kitchen Interior Design|Freelancer|Detail Designer| BIM MODELER | Multi-tasking Architect
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By understanding the needs, preferences and lifestyle of the client, I inform the direction of the design process and create the proposed design of the mood boards and regularly communicate with my client intelligently to achieve the professional and desired result. let's get there
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- Dimora Interiors Interior design studio
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My problem-solving approach in interior design involves thorough research, creative brainstorming, and collaboration with clients and stakeholders to develop innovative and practical solutions tailored to each unique space and its requirements.
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- Soubia Bhat Interior Designer/ Visual Merchandiser/ Graphic Designer
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In interior design, my problem-solving approach involves understanding the client's needs, assessing the space, and creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing solutions. I prioritize effective communication, attention to detail, and staying updated on design trends to ensure a well-rounded and tailored outcome.
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