How Long Does a Design Project Really Take?
If you’ve ever watched a home renovation show, you’ve probably seen entire homes transformed in a matter of weeks. But here's the thing—that's not reality. Real renovations take time, thoughtful planning, and a whole lot of behind-the-scenes coordination that never makes it to TV.
We get this question almost daily: "How long will my project actually take?" It's completely understandable—you're excited to see your vision come to life, and you want to plan accordingly. The honest answer? It depends on your project's size and scope.
There are many factors that influence the timeline, and knowing what to expect will help you manage the process from start to finish. Whether you're renovating your entire home or just updating a room, the timeline will vary, but the essential steps we follow remain the same—ensuring that every detail is thoughtfully executed for beautiful, lasting results.
What to Expect During the Design Process
Our projects consistently follow our effective design process; however, the average timeline noted for each phase below correlates to a small project, like a single room design.
Phase 1: Research Phase
We’ll begin by reviewing your design questionnaire, inspiration images, and floor plans (if available). If floor plans aren’t accessible, we’ll coordinate a 3D scan of your home’s current conditions to help inform the design process.
Average timeline: 2 weeks
Phase 2: Conceptual Design
In this phase, we present initial design ideas and start refining the aesthetic direction for your space. This is where your vision really begins to take shape. We’ll gather your feedback and finalize the look and feel of the design.
Average timeline: 4 weeks
Phase 3: Design Development
Once the concept is approved, we move into the details—selecting materials, finishes, and furniture. During this phase, we also create design boards and provide 3D renderings. Depending on the project’s size, there may be two or more presentations before final approval.
Average timeline: 8 weeks
Phase 4: Documentation
Now that we have your design finalized, we prepare detailed construction drawings and specifications for your contractor. This is the technical phase where we ensure every detail is mapped out for successful execution.
Average timeline: 4-6 weeks
Phase 5: Procuring and Ordering
During procurement, our team works hard to source furniture, materials, and accessories. We handle everything from purchase orders to coordinating shipments, quality inspections, and storing items safely until installation day.
Average timeline: 3-6 months for furnishings and decorative items
Phase 6: Design Support
As construction begins, we’ll collaborate with your contractor, place orders, and attend site visits as outlined in your contract. We’ll schedule a date to walk through the completed home with you to identify any outstanding items.
Average timeline: Dependent on length of construction
Phase 7: Installation
It’s time for the final reveal. Once construction is complete, we oversee the installation of soft furnishings, decor, and final touches. We’ll make sure everything is placed perfectly and ready for you to experience.
Average timeline: 3 days-1 week
Factors That Can Impact Your Timeline & How to Stay on Track
Even with careful planning, delays and surprises can arise during any project. Some of the common factors that may affect the timeline include:
Lead times: The time between the initial consultation and the start of the project may be longer than expected.
Contractor schedules: The contractor’s availability may cause the start date for construction to shift.
Approval processes: Though we submit paperwork in a timely manner, the permit process and building department reviews may be lengthy
Revisions: One single decision can impact hundreds of others, so when you request revisions or changes, it takes us time to make thoughtful and comprehensive updates.
Shipping: Unfortunately, damage from shipping can happen, and while we manage it and ensure you receive your items in perfect condition as promised, it can cause delays.
Back orders: Occasionally, a material we specify becomes out of stock, and we need to make a new selection, which can add time.
Hidden home conditions: No one wants to begin demo only to discover structural damage or evidence of mold, but unfortunately, these surprises can happen and delay the project’s progress.
To keep everything moving forward, here's how we manage the process together:
Studio VAE: Set clear expectations from the start. We establish our expectations upfront with you about response times for questions, decision deadlines, and how urgent matters will be handled by both parties. We follow our proven process so that progress moves smoothly and swiftly.
Our Clients: Make decisions promptly. We understand that decisions about your home take time, and we want you to feel fully confident in your choices. That said, delays in selections can create ripple effects throughout the entire timeline and can postpone completion by weeks or even months. We ask that you promptly devote time to considering options and respond in a timely manner.
By staying proactive and aligned, we can keep your project moving forward on track, even when unexpected factors arise.
A Process Well-Worth its Timeline
Everyone involved in your project wants it to succeed and move smoothly towards the finish line. Understanding why each phase of your project takes time is key to moving through it with patience and perseverance. The final result will be worth every moment.
If a home project is on the horizon for you, we recommend reaching out to a designer at least 3-6 months before you’re ready to begin. At Studio VAE, we take clients on a first-come-first-serve basis, and often, our clients wait 2-3 months from signing their contract to the official start date of their project. Being proactive will help you get as close to your hopeful start date as possible.
If that means reaching out to us now, we’d love to hear from you.
– Veronica & Aggie
