Designing a beautiful, functional apartment interior doesn’t start on the day of demolition or when the first paint roller hits the wall. It begins in the pre-design phase—a series of research, planning, and decision-making steps that set the foundation for a smooth, cost-effective, and cohesive end result. By investing time up front, you can avoid expensive mistakes, reduce stress during construction, and ensure that every element of your home reflects your lifestyle, budget, and personal style. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive pre-design checklist to guide you through every detail—from clarifying your goals to finalizing your timeline—so that when actual work begins, you’ll be confident in each decision.
1. Purpose of the Pre-Design Phase
Before any wall comes down or furniture is ordered, it’s essential to understand why you’re doing pre-design. In essence, pre-design means all the thinking that happens before the physical work starts: research, measurements, budgeting, and establishing priorities.
What “Pre-Design” Means
Pre-design involves gathering inspiration, mapping your space, defining your functional needs, setting a budget, and making style decisions—all before demolition, carpentry, or painting. It’s the blueprint for your project’s success.Why It Matters
Saves Money: By finalizing big-picture choices early, you avoid mid-project scope creep—when you suddenly decide you need a new wall or a different layout—and the costly change orders that come with it.
Prevents Mistakes: Specs like door swing clearances, appliance dimensions, or plumbing riser locations can be overlooked without good pre-design, leading to functional headaches later.
Ensures Cohesive Results: When you know exactly what aesthetic you want—say, a contemporary, warm, and minimal vibe—you can make material and finish selections that all speak the same design language.
2. Clarify Your Goals and Priorities
2.1 Identify Your Lifestyle Needs
Before picking color swatches, start by asking: How will you live in this apartment? Consider:
Occupant Count & Types
Who will regularly use the space? Singles, a couple, a family with young children, or roommates?
Do any family members work from home full-time? Do you frequently entertain guests?
If you have kids, think about play zones. If you’re a senior or planning to age in place, consider grab rails and zero-step thresholds.
Routines & Special Requirements
Does someone need a quiet, well-lit home office?
Will the living room double as a media zone with a large-screen TV and surround sound?
Do you want a small area where kids can study or play?
Are there accessibility considerations—step-free entries, wider doorways, or lever handles?
2.2 Define Functional Zones
Every apartment has core zones: living room, dining area, kitchen, bedrooms, workspace, and storage. Think about:
Primary Zones
Living area: seating, TV/media units, perhaps a reading nook.
Dining: table size, proximity to the kitchen, natural light for family meals or hosting friends.
Kitchen: work triangle (sink, stove, refrigerator) and appliance layout.
Bedroom(s): bed size, wardrobe requirements, bedside tables.
Workspace: desk area, book shelves, and ergonomics.
Storage: closets, cabinets, and niches.
Multi-Use Strategies
Could your living room become a guest bedroom with a sofa bed?
Can you have a fold-down desk in a corner that tucks away when not in use?
Would a Murphy bed in a studio apartment allow more socializing space by day?
Mapping out these zones early helps you refine flow, furniture sizing, and overall layout.
2.3 Set Clear Objectives
Now that you know how you’ll use each space, list your top goals. Ask:
Are you chasing more storage?
Do you need better natural light penetration?
Is your priority a specific aesthetic—for example, minimalist Boho-chic, modern-contemporary, or a warm transitional style?
Do you want an open-plan layout or semi-open spaces with decorative partitions?
Rank your top 3–5 must-haves. For instance, if your budget is limited, “ample built-in storage” might outrank “Bluetooth-enabled mood lighting.”
By prioritizing these objectives now, you can allocate your budget and timeline accordingly, ensuring must-haves come first.
3. Measure and Document Your Space
A reliably accurate set of measurements and a rough floor plan are the backbone of any good design.
3.1 Take Accurate Measurements
Overall Room Dimensions:
Measure length, width, and height of every wall—don’t assume two opposite walls are the same; they often vary by a few millimeters.
Note ceiling height changes (bulkheads, beams, dropped soffits).
Door and Window Placements:
Document sill heights and frame widths.
Note the door swing direction (inward vs. outward) and note whether windows slide or open fully.
Fixed Elements & Mechanical Zones:
Columns, load-bearing walls, exposed beams, radiators, and AC unit locations.
Plumbing risers for kitchen and bathrooms, plus electrical panel and meter locations.
Tip: Photograph each corner and elevation, labeling photos (e.g., “Living Room West Wall”). These photos paired with sketches will help if you revisit measurements later.
3.2 Create a Rough Floor Plan
Sketch to Scale:
Use graph paper or a simple digital tool (Floorplanner, SketchUp) to draw your apartment layout to scale (e.g., 1 square = 1 foot or 30 cm).
Mark Fixed Obstructions:
Identify columns, radiators, AC compressors, beams, and other immovable elements.
Highlight Services:
Mark plumbing stacks, soil pipes, electrical points, and areas where ducting must run.
Window Orientation & Ventilation:
Label which walls face east, west, south, and north. In Kerala, south- and west-facing walls receive the most intense sun and heat; use that info to plan shading or insulation.
Identify any sightlines you want to capture—perhaps a city skyline or a lush courtyard.
Documenting all this in one place ensures that when you consult your interior designer or contractor, there’s no confusion about where walls are fixed or where services must remain untouched.
4. Establish Your Budget and Timeline
A clearly defined budget and realistic timeline will keep your project on track. Unexpected costs and schedule overruns can derail even the best-laid plans.
4.1 Determine Overall Budget
Include All Cost Categories:
Design Fees: Architect or interior designer charges.
Contractor/Labor Costs: Demolition, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, finishes, painting, and installations.
Materials & Finishes: Flooring, tiles, paint, plywood/veneer, hardware, sanitaryware, lighting fixtures.
Furniture & Soft Furnishings: Sofa, bed, dining table, wardrobes, curtains, rugs.
Décor Accents: Cushions, artwork, planters, decorative objects.
Contingency Fund:
Incorporate a 10–15% buffer for unexpected overruns—hidden plumbing issues, last-minute design tweaks, or material price fluctuations.
4.2 Allocate Budgets by Category
To avoid overspending in one area and leaving nothing for another, break your budget into sub-categories:
(Percentages are guidelines only; adjust based on your priorities. For example, if you value high-end furniture more than bespoke carpentry, shift funds accordingly.)
4.3 Set a Rough Project Timeline
Pre-Design/ Ideation Phase (1–2 Weeks):
Research styles, gather quotes from contractors, finalize floor plans, secure approvals.
Execution Sequence:
Demolition & Shell Work: Remove unwanted partitions, prepare for new layouts.
Rough-Ins (MEPR): Plumbing, electrical wiring, HVAC ducting.
Flooring & Tiling: Laying tiles, wood flooring, or other surfaces.
Carpentry & POP: Installing wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, false ceilings.
Painting & Wall Treatments: Priming, painting, applying wallpapers or texture finishes.
Furniture & Final Installations: Placing sofas, beds, light fixtures, décor.
Lead Times & Seasonal Considerations:
Custom-made items (wardrobes, kitchen cabinets) often need 4–6 weeks.
In Kochi/Kerala, plan buffer time around the monsoon (June–September) and major festivals (Onam in August/September, Christmas in December), as contractor availability and material deliveries can get delayed.
Adding buffer time of at least 2–3 weeks around highly booked seasons ensures you don’t end up stuck waiting for a carpenter or tile shipment.
5. Gather Inspiration and Define Your Style
Even if you’re not working with a professional designer, having a clear style direction will guide every material and color choice.
5.1 Identify Key Style Keywords
By distilling your inspiration into a few keywords, you create a shorthand for your design direction:
Styles: Modern contemporary, transitional, eclectic, Boho-chic, industrial.
Materials: Warm veneers such as teak or walnut, matte paints, textured wallpapers, brass hardware accents.
Colors: Neutral base (off-white, beige, light grey) with accent hues (deep teal, mustard, forest green).
Use these keywords when discussing options with your designer or when browsing showrooms. For example, “I’m looking for a transitional look with matte, warm wood tones and brass hardware.”
5.2 Translate Inspiration into Tangible Goals
Specific Elements:
Accent wall: Microcement finish in the living area or a stone veneer behind the TV.
Built-in floating shelves in the study nook.
Brass cabinet hardware in the kitchen for that hint of warmth.
Semi-open partitions: Decorative screens between living and dining or sliding glass panels for a modern touch.
Getting concrete about “I want a microcement TV wall” or “I need a decorative jali screen to separate my dining from the entry foyer” helps you source materials and quotes precisely, avoiding vague requests like “make it look nice.”
6. Assess Functional Requirements in Detail
Break down each room’s needs to ensure nothing is overlooked. Below is a room-by-room deep dive.
6.1 Living Room / Lounge Area
Seating Capacity:
Do you need a 3-seater sofa, a loveseat plus single chairs, poufs for flexible seating?
Media Unit:
Size of TV (e.g., 55″ vs. 65″), location of power and data outlets, and voids for cable routing.
Storage:
Showcase/display cabinets for decor, closed storage for electronics, or hidden niches for wiring and consoles.
Traffic Flow:
Plan for at least 24–30 inches of clearance between sofa and coffee table, and 36 inches for main walkways.
6.2 Dining Area
Table Size:
Based on family size: 4-seater or 6-seater. If you entertain frequently, consider an expandable table.
Proximity to Kitchen:
For easy serving, ensure the dining table is within 3–4 feet of the kitchen’s pass-through or service counter.
Lighting:
A statement pendant or chandelier above the table, ensuring at least 30–36 inches clearance from tabletop to fixture.
6.3 Kitchen
Work Triangle Dimensions:
Ensure practical distances: sink, hob, and refrigerator should form an efficient triangle (ideal leg length between each point is 4–7 feet).
Layout Options:
Straight (kitchenette), L-shape, U-shape, or island—choose based on available square footage.
Appliance Clearances:
Fridge door swing (allow at least 90° clearance), dishwasher space, chimney exhaust hood height.
Storage Zones:
Pots and pans near the hob, cutlery and utensils near the prep area, pantry or larder zone for groceries and spices.
Lighting:
Under-cabinet LED strips for task lighting, recessed downlights for ambient illumination, and a bright ceiling fixture.
Ventilation:
Extractor chimney location and ensuring a ventilation duct runs to the exterior or a suitable overhead vent.
6.4 Bedrooms
Bed Size & Clearance:
Queen or king? Plan for at least 24 inches on either side of the bed for easy circulation.
Wardrobe Dimensions:
Decide hanging vs. shelving vs. drawer proportion. For example, if you have mostly folded clothes, allocate more shelving.
Study Nook/Workstation:
Desk width (minimum 3ft for a laptop and workspace), ergonomic chair clearance, proximity to natural light (near a window if possible).
Additional Furniture:
Space for a dressing table or vanity—ideally 3–4 feet wide, with a mirror, lighting, and chair clearance.
Lighting & Power Points:
Bedside reading lamps, general ceiling fixture, and at least two plug points on either side of the bed.
6.5 Bathrooms
Fixture Clearances:
Minimum 60 cm (approx. 2 feet) between toilet centerline and any obstruction.
Shower vs. Bathtub:
Bathtub only if space allows—leak-proofing requirements are stricter. Otherwise, opt for a glass shower partition.
Ventilation:
Ventilation fan or extractor fan location, window if possible for cross-ventilation.
Vanity Size:
Single-sink (2ft minimum) vs. double-sink (4ft) vanity. Mirror placement and at least one plug point for electric razors or hairdryers.
6.6 Home Office / Workstation (If Applicable)
Desk Dimensions & Ergonomics:
Desk depth of at least 24–30 inches for keyboard, mouse, and laptop, and height of around 30 inches.
Storage for Files/Books:
Shelving above or adjacent to the desk, and dedicated drawer space or filing cabinet.
Cable Management & Data Points:
Plan for a data outlet on the wall behind the desk, plus at least two power outlets.
6.7 Utility / Laundry Nook
Appliance Space:
Washing machine and dryer—stacked or side-by-side—each requiring around 60 cm width.
Plumbing & Power:
Drain point for washing machine, water inlet, and at least one dedicated 16A socket.
Storage:
Space for cleaning supplies—open shelves or closed cabinets above machines.
6.8 Balcony / Outdoor Space
Furniture:
Foldable chairs or a small bistro set to optimize space.
Planters & Greenery:
Vertical garden or planter boxes—consider waterproofing and drainage if you plan to keep pots directly on the floor.
Flooring:
Waterproof tiles or outdoor-friendly decking. Ensure proper slope for rainwater drainage.
7. Plan for Storage and Organization
Once you know what each room needs, drill down into storage specifics.
7.1 Estimate Storage Needs Room by Room
Kitchen:
Dry pantry (floor-to-ceiling cabinets or a separate tall unit), shelves or drawers for pots/pans, dedicated spice rack (in-cabinet or pull-out), trash segregation unit under sink.
Bedrooms:
Hanging rods vs. shelves/drawers in wardrobes; built-in shoe racks or a standalone shoe cabinet; linen closet or dedicated storage for extra pillows and blankets.
Living Area:
Media console with both open display shelves and closed compartments; hidden storage ottomans or coffee tables with built-in bins; floating wall shelves for décor.
Bathrooms:
Medicine cabinet behind mirror, under-sink cabinet or vanity drawers, open shelves or ladder shelves for towels.
Utility Nook:
Open shelving for detergents, brooms, mop board hooks, and a dedicated area for a dustbin.
7.2 Choose Between Built-In vs. Modular vs. Freestanding
Built-In (Custom):
Pros: Maximizes every inch of space, seamless look, tailored to exact dimensions.
Cons: Longer lead times (4–6 weeks), less flexible if you move later, typically higher cost.
Modular (Pre-Fabricated):
Pros: Faster installation (2–3 weeks), somewhat customizable, easier to reconfigure if you relocate.
Cons: May not fit odd dimensions perfectly, slightly less “bespoke” look.
Freestanding:
Pros: Most affordable, easy to replace or reposition.
Cons: Doesn’t optimize space fully, may look disconnected if mixed styles.
Consider future resale: a buyer might appreciate a well-designed, built-in wardrobe but also value modular units they can tweak.
7.3 Hidden Storage Solutions
Under-Bed Drawers or Storage Beds:
Great for seasonal bedding or luggage.
Staircase Drawers (for Duplex/Maisonette):
Utilize the otherwise dead space under the stairs for deep drawers.
Wall-Mounted Fold-Down Desks or Tables:
Perfect for micro-apartments where guests require a temporary workstation.
Niches & Recessed Wall Shelves:
In bathrooms or hallway niches—ideal for displaying décor or storing toiletries.
7.4 Decluttering Strategy
Pre-Project Purge:
Before any demolition, sort existing items: donate, sell, or discard anything you don’t need.
Inventory Essentials vs. Non-Essentials:
Make a list of items you’ll keep (e.g., existing sofa, TV), items to upgrade (e.g., outdated wardrobe), and items you wish to buy new.
This helps your designer know what pieces to work around and what to budget for anew.
8. Evaluate Lighting Needs
Good lighting is often overlooked, but it’s crucial for ambiance, functionality, and even perceived space.
8.1 Maximize Natural Daylight
Window Treatments:
Plan for sheer curtains or motorized blinds for south- or west-facing windows to block harsh afternoon sun in Kerala’s hot months.
Reflective Surfaces:
Use light-reflective flooring (glossy vitrified tiles or marble), strategic mirror placement (facing windows), and light-colored walls to bounce daylight deeper into the room.
8.2 Define Artificial Lighting Layers
Ambient Lighting:
Recessed downlights, track lighting, or cove lights—create a general wash of light.
Task Lighting:
Under-cabinet LED strips in the kitchen; desk lamps in the home office; bedside reading lamps in bedrooms.
Accent Lighting:
Wall sconces flanking artwork; LED strip lights inside open shelves or floating niches; pendant lights highlighting a console table or foyer.
When planning, count how many fixtures you need and note power points or junction box locations. A 5” LED downlight typically requires a 25W driver behind the ceiling.
9. Map Electrical and Data Points Early
One of the biggest regrets homeowners have is adding insufficient power outlets or forgetting data points.
9.1 Decide on Fan/Light/Controller Locations
Main Ceiling Fixtures:
Identify the desired location of chandeliers, ceiling fans, and recessed lights. Mark these on your floor plan.
Power Outlets:
Plan for at least two sockets on either side of the bed, two behind the TV unit (even if you use a wireless TV—set-top boxes and soundbars still need power), and four to six points in the living area for chargers, lamps, and entertainment systems.
Kitchen Sockets:
One each for microwave, refrigerator, chimney, mixer grinder, and a couple of spare outlets near the countertop for small appliances.
Air Conditioner Units:
Each AC needs a dedicated 15A socket, ideally concealed near the unit.
9.2 Future-Proof for Smart Devices
Conduits & Extra Wiring:
Ask your electrician to lay a few extra conduits (20–25 mm diameter) from your main switchboard to potential smart switch locations, TV locations, and home office. This way, you can retrofit smart switches or additional data cables later without hacking walls.
Data Points & Wi‑Fi Extenders:
If you plan a centralized data hub (Ethernet switch, router), mark its location. Run CAT6 cables to bedrooms or home office nooks.
UPS or Inverter Placement:
Identify a location (often next to the main switchboard or inside a utility closet) for inverter batteries or a UPS for critical areas like the home office and living-room entertainment
10. Select Materials and Finishes
Material choices heavily influence aesthetics, upkeep, and long-term satisfaction. In Kerala’s humid climate, moisture-resistant options are wise.
10.1 Flooring Options
Tiles:
Vitrified/Ceramic/Porcelain: Durable and easy to maintain; choose anti-skid finishes for bathrooms and balcony.
Engineered/Cushion Vinyl:
Water-resistant, comfortable underfoot, can mimic wood grains—good for bedrooms or living areas if you want warmth.
Laminate/Wooden Flooring:
A warm, natural look—ensure laminates have a moisture-resistant coating for Kerala’s humidity.
Epoxy/Microcement:
Seamless, modern, and easy to clean—requires skilled installation; can be used for loft-style finishes or accent floors.
10.2 Wall Treatments
Paint:
Living Areas: Matte or eggshell finish; easier to touch up.
Bedrooms: Eggshell or satin for slight sheen.
Kitchens/Bathrooms: Semi-gloss or moisture-resistant enamel paint.
Wallpaper:
Textured vinyl wallpapers on a feature wall (e.g., behind the bed or dining area).
Laminate/Wooden Panels:
Half-height paneling in dining nooks or a wood veneer accent wall behind the TV.
Stone Cladding or Faux Veneer:
Can be used as an accent behind the television or around an entry foyer for an earthy, upscale look.
10.3 Ceiling Solutions
POP (Plaster of Paris) False Ceilings:
Conceals ducting and wiring, allows for cove lighting or hidden LED strips.
Gypsum Board:
Faster to install, lighter weight, suitable for lower ceiling areas or service ducts.
Exposed Beams/Industrial Look:
For loft-style apartments; leave ceilings raw, paint pipes and ducts in a contrasting color for drama.
10.4 Doors and Windows
Main Entrance Door:
Solid wood (teak or engineered wood) with laminate finish—prioritize security and soundproofing.
Interior Doors:
Flush doors with laminate/MDF veneer; consider premium doors with a gloss finish for wet areas.
Window Frames:
Powder-coated aluminum (durable, low-maintenance) vs. UPVC (better insulation but slightly bulkier).
Hardware:
Door Handles: Uniform finish (e.g., matte black or brass) throughout the apartment.
Cabinet Handles: Long bar pulls or minimalistic finger pulls for a streamlined look.
10.5 Hardware and Fittings
Sanitaryware & Faucets:
Wall-mounted faucets for a minimalist look; under-counter sinks if space is tight.
Lighting Fixtures:
Statement pendants for dining, sculptural floor lamps in living corners, flush-mount or slimline fixtures for bedrooms.
Switches & Sockets:
Opt for modular switch systems (e.g., Schneider or Legrand) with consistent plate finishes (white, black, or metallic).
Selecting finishes now ensures that your carpenter, plumber, and electrician can order materials early, reducing lead-time risks.
11. Finalize Colour Scheme and Textiles
A cohesive palette ties every room together—choose wisely.
11.1 Build a Cohesive Palette
Primary Base (Neutrals):
Off-white, beige, light grey—use these on major surfaces (walls, main cabinet boxes).
Secondary Accents:
Deep blues, forest greens, terracotta—incorporate these through feature walls, upholstery, or large décor pieces.
Highlight (Third Colour):
Mustard, blush pink, or brass/metallic elements—use sparingly as pops on cushions, vases, or metallic trims.
11.2 Balance Warm vs. Cool Tones
Warm Neutrals:
Beiges and taupes create a cozy, inviting vibe—great for living rooms and bedrooms.
Cool Neutrals:
Light greys and soft whites feel airy and modern—ideal for kitchens or minimalist bathrooms.
Accent Colors:
Add accent cushions, rugs, or a painted console table in a bold hue—but keep overall saturation low to avoid overwhelming small spaces.
11.3 Choose Fabrics and Soft Furnishings
Curtains/Blinds:
Living Room: Light-filtering sheers plus blackout drapes to shield harsh afternoon sun.
Bedrooms: Heavier blackout curtains (especially in east- or west-facing windows) for better sleep.
Fabric weight: Linen, cotton, or polyester blends depending on budget and maintenance.
Upholstery:
Stain-resistant fabrics (microfiber, performance polyester) if you have kids or pets.
Rugs & Carpets:
Natural fibers (jute, wool) for warmth and texture; synthetic options for easy cleaning.
Throw Pillows & Cushions:
Mix and match patterns (stripes, geometrics, solids) in complementary accent colors—avoid more than 3–4 patterns in a single space.
12. Plan Furniture and Fixture Layout
Even if you’re not placing orders today, your pre-design should include a furniture “wish-list” and layout guidelines.
12.1 Create a Furniture Wish-List
Essentials First:
Sofa, bed, dining table, wardrobe, study desk—prioritize these in your budget.
Secondary Items:
Accent chairs, side tables, console tables, ottomans, shoe rack.
Special Pieces:
Statement chandelier, vintage coffee table, designer bar stools—lock these in early if they have long lead times.
12.2 Measure Twice, Buy Once
Verify Circulation Spaces:
Ensure minimum 24–30 inches between sofa and coffee table.
Walkways: At least 36 inches clearance to avoid a cramped feeling.
Account for Door Clearances:
Don’t place a TV panel that obstructs the main entry.
Confirm cabinet doors can open fully without bumping into walls or each other.
12.3 Consider Modular vs. Built-In
Modular Units:
Easier to relocate—good for those who might move in 3–5 years.
Slightly less tailored but quicker and often more cost-effective.
Built-In Units:
Maximize every inch but are a permanent feature—great if you plan to stay long-term or if you want to boost resale value.
Budget & Timeline Implications:
Modular wardrobes: ~2–3 weeks lead time.
Built-in carpentry: 4–6 weeks plus installation time.
12.4 Lighting Fixtures as Focal Points
Scale & Proportion:
A low-hanging chandelier in a 9-foot ceiling apartment might feel overwhelming—opt for slimline or recessed options.
Pendant length should be about 30–36 inches above the dining tabletop.
Style Consistency:
If you choose matte black metal fixtures in the kitchen, carry that finish through a few accent lamps in the living area for continuity.
13. Consider Environmental and Sustainability Factors
Eco-friendly design saves resources long term and can reduce utility bills.
13.1 Energy Efficiency
Lighting:
Choose LED fixtures and high-efficiency fans (better CFM/Watt ratings).
Appliances:
Opt for BEE 5-star rated refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines.
Insulation & Window Treatments:
Use thermal curtains or blinds on south/west windows to reduce heat gain; consider double-glazed windows if within budget.
13.2 Indoor Air Quality
Low-VOC Materials:
Use Indian-standards–certified low-VOC or zero-VOC paints (Asian Paints Royale, Berger Emulsion).
Opt for water-based adhesives in carpentry.
Indoor Plants:
Snake plant, peace lily, areca palm—help purify air and add a biophilic touch.
Proper Ventilation:
Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms with at least 50 CFM capacity.
13.3 Sustainable Materials
Reclaimed Wood:
Ideal for accent walls, console tables, or shelving—adds character and offsets demand for virgin timber.
Bamboo Plywood or FSC-Certified Laminate:
More eco-friendly than conventional plywood.
Recycled Glass Tiles or Terrazzo:
Offer unique patterns in kitchen backsplashes or bathroom floors, with a lower environmental footprint.
13.4 Water Conservation
Low-Flow Faucets & Dual-Flush Toilets:
Save thousands of liters per year.
Greywater Harvesting (If Permitted):
Collect balcony runoff (with rooftop permissions) for watering plants.
Smart Faucets:
Infrared sensor taps in bathrooms or kitchens can reduce wastage in a busy household.
14. Finalize Your Pre-Design Checklist (Room-by-Room)
With all details hashed out, compile a master checklist that you (and anyone on your team) can reference throughout the project.
14.1 Master Checklist Items
Site Survey & Documentation:
Measured floor plan (to scale).
Photographs of existing conditions (all walls, ceilings, and floors).
Sketches or scans of RWA-approved floor plan.
Inspiration & Mood Boards:
Links or printed references for color palettes, furniture styles, lighting fixtures, and textures.
Budget Breakdown & Contingency:
Detailed spreadsheet (or tab) showing total budget, category-wise allocations, and contingency amount.
Timeline with Milestones:
Gantt chart or simple calendar indicating pre-design, demolition, rough-in, finishing, and installation phases, with buffer periods.
Design Style Keywords & Color Palette Choices:
A list of 3–5 style descriptors (e.g., “warm transitional,” “industrial modern”) and your chosen primary, secondary, and accent colors.
Functional Requirements Per Room:
Furniture list, storage requirements, fixture counts, and special needs (e.g., built-in study nook).
Lighting Plan:
Natural light assessment (window orientations and shade strategies) + artificial lighting layers (fixture types and locations).
Material/Finish Selections:
Flooring, wall treatments, ceiling type, doors/windows, hardware finishes, and brand/model numbers if decided.
Vendor Shortlist & Initial Quotations:
Contact info, portfolios, quotes, and references for designer, contractor, and MEPR specialists.
Permissions/NOCs & Approvals:
Status tracker for RWA NOC, structural engineer sign-off, and any municipal permits.
Sustainability Targets:
Energy efficiency goals (e.g., 80% LED fixtures), low-VOC product list, and water-conservation measures.
Technology Integration Plan:
List of smart devices, conduits to be laid, location of router/data hub, and inverter/UPS.
Final Sign-Off Points:
Who approves each stage—e.g., design concept sign-off by both spouses, budget sign-off, RWA submission by homeowner, SoW sign-off by contractor.
By compiling everything in one master checklist—whether in a spreadsheet, project management tool, or printed binder—you’ll always know exactly where you stand. Share it with your designer, contractors, and family members so everyone operates from the same playbook.
Conclusion
A well-executed pre-design phase is the unsung hero of any successful apartment renovation. By clarifying goals, measuring meticulously, budgeting carefully, and locking down style choices, you minimize surprises, reduce stress, and ensure that the finished apartment reflects both your aesthetic vision and practical needs. Whether you’re working with an interior designer or doing it yourself, this checklist keeps you organized, focused, and confident. Now it’s your turn: grab a copy of this checklist, tick off each item one by one, and gather everyone—from your spouse or family members to your architect—to review it. The more thorough you are at this stage, the fewer headaches you’ll encounter later. Once every checkbox is marked, you’ll be ready to hire a contractor or designer knowing that no detail has been overlooked.
Ready to turn your apartment into a beautifully designed space that matches your vision and lifestyle? At Faboolux, we bring your ideas to life with smart, stylish, and functional interior solutions tailored to your needs. Let our expert designers guide you from concept to completion—book your free design consultation today and take the first step toward your dream apartment interiors!