How do you research and plan commercial design solutions?

1 Understand the client's goals and needs

The first step in any commercial design project is to understand the client's goals and needs. What is the purpose and vision of the space? Who are the target users and customers? What are the functional and operational requirements? How does the space reflect the brand identity and values? You need to ask these and other relevant questions to the client and gather as much information as possible. You can also conduct site visits, surveys, interviews, and focus groups to get more insights.

2 Analyze the site and context

The second step is to analyze the site and context of the project. You need to consider the physical characteristics of the space, such as its size, shape, orientation, structure, utilities, lighting, ventilation, acoustics, and accessibility. You also need to consider the environmental and social factors, such as the climate, the culture, the regulations, the trends, and the competition. You need to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the site and context, and how they affect your design solutions.

3 Define the design concept and strategy

The third step is to define the design concept and strategy for the project. You need to synthesize the information and insights from the previous steps and develop a clear and coherent design vision. You need to establish the main theme, mood, style, and message of the space. You also need to define the design goals, objectives, and criteria that will guide your decision-making. You need to communicate your design concept and strategy to the client and get their feedback and approval.

4 Develop the design solutions

The fourth step is to develop the design solutions for the project. You need to translate your design concept and strategy into concrete design elements, such as the layout, the furniture, the fixtures, the materials, the colors, the textures, the lighting, the signage, and the artwork. You need to use various tools and techniques, such as sketches, drawings, models, renderings, and software, to visualize and test your design solutions. You need to evaluate your design solutions against the design goals, objectives, and criteria, and make adjustments as needed.

5 Present the design solutions

The fifth step is to present the design solutions to the client and other stakeholders. You need to prepare a comprehensive and persuasive presentation that showcases your design solutions and explains how they meet the client's goals and needs. You need to use various media and formats, such as boards, slides, videos, and prototypes, to demonstrate your design solutions. You also need to be prepared to answer questions, address concerns, and negotiate changes.

6 Implement the design solutions

The sixth and final step is to implement the design solutions for the project. You need to collaborate with other professionals, such as contractors, engineers, suppliers, and installers, to execute your design solutions. You need to oversee the construction, installation, and finishing of the space, and ensure that everything is done according to the design specifications and standards. You also need to conduct quality checks, inspections, and evaluations, and resolve any issues or problems that may arise.

7 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?