All of our projects begin at the design phase and at Darren James Interiors we offer this service at the highest level. Our award-winning interior designers will work with you to turn your project into an aesthetic, practical and successful design. Our qualified design team pride themselves on their continuing professional development and in-depth training ensuring they produce better living environments for today’s lifestyle.
From design, your project will then move forward into the construction phase, where our experienced Site Manager oversees all of the construction work and co-ordinates and schedules all trades to ensure quality is maintained and a seamless flow throughout the project.
So you know exactly what to expect from our design and construct service here is a step by step process of how we work!
Initial Consultation
During this consultation our qualified interior designers will assess the property, review and consult on house plans and discuss your project requirements in detail. By talking with you we will establish your individual requirements for the space, the function of the room/s, layout options, aesthetics, your must haves and your wish list. If commissioned we are qualified to provide design services and selections for any room within the home.
Client Agreement
Following the initial consultation we will present you with a client proposal agreement which once agreed upon commissions us to proceed with the design. The agreement outlines the scope of works for the design and the associated fees which is based upon the estimated amount of working hours of the project. Darren James Interiors works on both small and large scale projects and our fees are calculated based on the scope of work.
Concept
During the Concept stage of the design process we will survey the property, establish the design brief and produce concept drawings for your project. In our studio we will present our preliminary design proposal in 3D. Read more about our 3D Rendering Services here. The proposed design encapsulates your wants and individual requirements all ascertained in the brief. We will explain our thinking behind the design and present our concepts and recommendations.
Design Development
During the Design Development Stage the design is further developed and any necessary modifications are made to the design. Prior to providing the final quotation, all drawings and specifications including finishes and fixtures are finalised. A site meeting with relevant trades will be required to establish costs associated with the project.
Final Approval
A detailed quotation including a complete specification schedule and scope of works for the project are then issued. To engage our services for the construction works and commission us to carry out the project we require completion of a QBCC approved contract, approval and sign off of all drawings and specifications as well as an initial deposit of 5-10% depending on the total project cost. At this stage we will also discuss a proposed timeline for construction and to co-ordinate the project from start to finish.
Construction
Our experienced Site Manager will be in regular contact with you throughout the demolition and construction stage of your project and keep you updated with our progress on site. Our Site Manager is on hand to ensure the smooth running of the project from start to finish. Forming part of the contract and as the builder we co-ordinate all of the trades and all construction work ensuring quality is maintained and the seamless flow therefore minimising disruption.
CABINET MAKING
The Darren James Interiors name is synonymous with the claim of delivering first class quality in every detail. This is why we oversee the production of all cabinetry, ensuring all joinery is produced using only the finest materials and production techniques.
Furnishing & Decorating
If commissioned we are qualified to provide design services as well as source and supply everything for any room within the home including floor and wall coverings, lighting, soft furnishings and other materials including furniture, ornaments, curtains, rugs, artwork, carpets, and other accessories for interior decoration. We have access to a large and exquisite range of trade only fabric houses and furniture suppliers.
Obviously every project is unique and we will tailor our services to suit your individual requirements.
Furnishing & Decoration Services include –
- Furniture selection, supply and installation
- Selection and specification of all hard / building finishes
- Soft furnishings including fabrics and window treatments (manufacture and installation)
- Custom furniture design
- Space and furniture planning
- Flooring solutions, including tiling, carpets and rugs
- Interior and exterior colour schemes
- Placement of design accents and accessories
Read more about our team
Our Design Fees
Initial Consultation Fee
Our initial consultation fee for an on-site meeting where one of our qualified interior designers will discuss the scope of work and explore the project capabilities is $375 (Including GST).
Room Design Fees
Our fixed room design fees start at $3800 (Including GST) and are calculated on the size, scope of work involved and the needs of each individual project. As a design and construct firm providing a full circle service, our room design fees are simply a base fee, charged at a cheaper hourly rate ($95.00 per hour) and do not reflect ownership or transfer of copyright. Details of the services we provided and all conditions of our engagement are outlined in our detailed Design Services Agreement (as per the Design Institute of Australia guidelines) so you know exactly what to expect from us throughout the process.
Furnishing & Decorating Service Fees
Our hourly rate fee for furnishing and decorating services includes the sourcing, selection, purchase and installation of furniture, light fittings, soft furnishings, window treatments and the like is charged at a flat rate of $190.00 per hour – with a minimum of 30 hours. Our services for the selection and specification of other hard finishes outside of the fixed room design fees including paint schedules and flooring options for any new build and/or renovation is $190.00 per hour. Once we have received your brief we are happy to provide an estimation of hours to complete your project if required.
Where a time charge is applicable or hours have been estimated, we execute a Block of Hours Service Agreement. The number of hours in each block is determined by your expected needs and requirements. A block of hours is pre-purchased and a schedule of hours of work performed to date by will be emailed to regularly and based depending on the size of the project.
All orders for interior furnishings and products purchased through us and our trade only suppliers will be priced separately. Once your selections have been finalised you will receive a comprehensive quotation. Full payment is required to activate orders for furniture / fixtures / appliances and other special order items.
CONSTRUCTION PHASE COSTS
All costs associated with the construction phase of the project will form part of a separate QBCC approved contract and the relevant payment schedule and terms will apply. Payments are scheduled against set project milestones, so you can rest knowing that the design work won’t proceed without your approval.
