What do you do if your design ideas aren't resonating with clients?

Every designer encounters projects requiring some "extra effort" to obtain sign-off from the client. Usually it boils down to a need for improved trust and communication. Nowadays we can easily overlook the value of clients' input during design. Many designers think they should have all the answers and design the best solution right away. In reality, often the best solutions are "teased" out after weeks of design iteration, and a ton of communication. Listen actively. Ask questions, repeat back to ensure understanding. Practice "3 way communication" Be candid. I have often heard from clients that admitting to NOT knowing something helped BUILD trust. Design excellence is not just good planning. Ultimately it boils down to trust.

it is important to step back and start the conceptual process again as per client requirements I mean emphasis on client's need, chosen style, interest, etc

If your design ideas aren't resonating with clients, focus on highlighting successful past projects and case studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs. Use visual aids and real-world examples to show how your ideas have solved similar problems or enhanced other projects. This approach can help clients see the potential benefits and relevance of your designs.

In my experience, we collaborate with the client touch bases on the end goal of the project , discuss on the ways we can reach that goal. Make sure clients or our ideas are aligned to project goal. Clear out the misunderstandings if any.

Recently a client asked for a design in a certain sized tile to be fixed to a table top which was curved in &out on one side and straight on the other Sarah who I'm training had been contacted by this client I was a good training moment as I pointed out that the geometric on diamond tiles would fit as expected on the table ,we compromised with the same colours / black & white but In small mosaics which could accommodate the curved side and still retain symmetry and the aesthetics of the original design.

Don't be afraid to ask clarifying questions. This will help you to get a better understanding of the client's preferences, needs, and expectations. For example, you could ask: "Can you tell me more about what you envision for this space?" or "What concerns do you have about this particular design element?"

Getting your client to open up and tell you how they feel about your design can be a challenge. Asking the right questions is an essential skill. Here are some tips that have helped me: 1. Give permission for negative feedback. "Don't worry about my feelings-- what do you really think?" or "I'm sensing some hesitation. How do you feel about this idea?" 2. Avoid open-ended questions that lead to meandering answers. Ask specific and actionable questions. 3. Some designers use questionnaires to learn their clients' tastes. There's nothing inherently wrong with this, but it can't replace the value of direct communication. Pay special attention to how your deliver questions, and how it affects client experience. You might be surprised

As I mentioned earlier, communication is the key to understanding your clients. Let us imagine that your client requests a lobby design that incorporates rugs. A few vintage Asking them about the kinds of rugs or antiques they like or have liked can help you get a better idea. See if any of those can be included into the theme you want to use.Ask them about the colors Maybe some Adding some running wooden Beams Window You will have a very good understanding of the client's desires by the conclusion.The important thing to remember as a designer is that the space you are creating is where they will live or work, so incorporating their perspective is essential.

Involving the client in the design process is beneficial and something they would value. For instance, let us say your client requests a bedroom on the ground floor, but the area may be flood-prone and cannot be used as a living space. In this scenario, if you have included them in the design process and informed them of any laws that may affect the design, the client may be able to have their wish. When the design is complete, the client already understands it, and even if something is included that he may not have wanted but had to comply with the law, he will know why it was included. They would also be grateful for this and more aware of what is happening. It also saves you time.