Jessica Lightbody's Typical 4 Phase Interior Architecture & Design Process

Interior Architecture & Design Process

PHASE 1 | DISCOVERY & CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

Establish client goals, lifestyle needs, and project direction.

1.1 Client Brief & Visioning

• Initial consultation (in-person/virtual)

• Discuss lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, functional requirements, budget, timeline

• Establish aspirational “design story” — brand voice and client’s emotional goals

Deliverables:

• Client questionnaire

• Preliminary project scope

• Mood keywords (e.g., calm minimalism, modern heritage, layered luxe)

1.2 Site Analysis & Architectural Context

• Review plans, elevations, and existing conditions

• Assess light, views, circulation, structural opportunities & constraints

• Identify heritage, planning, or regulatory influences

Deliverables:

• Existing condition audit

• Site opportunities & constraints map

• Photo documentation

1.3 Concept Development

• Generate conceptual direction rooted in architecture, proportion, materials & client brief

• Develop visual inspiration boards

• Establish spatial strategy & design language (materiality, lighting, colour palette)

Deliverables:

• Concept boards (style + materials + finishes + lighting + furniture mood)

• Design narrative

• Preliminary budget range

PHASE 2 | SCHEMATIC DESIGN

Transform the concept into preliminary spatial plans and design direction.

2.1 Spatial Planning & Architecture

• Place walls, openings and circulation pathways

• Refine geometry & spatial hierarchy

• Ensure flow between key zones and orientation to light

Deliverables:

• Schematic floor plans

• Basic elevation sketches

• Spatial diagrams

2.2 Materials & Finishes Exploration

• Select primary materials (flooring, cabinetry, wall treatments)

• Confirm palettes and material relationships

• Test finishes for light, tactile quality and longevity

Deliverables:

• Materials boards & sample schedule

• Finish sample presentation

2.3 Lighting, Furniture & Fixtures Concept

• Propose lighting strategy (layered, architectural, accent)

• Curate furniture scale & style

• Align fixtures with design intent

Deliverables:

• Block-in lighting diagrams

• Furniture, fixture & equipment (FFE) outline

• Preliminary FF&E budget

2.4 Review & Refinement

• Workshop presentation with client

• Capture feedback and preferences

• Revise schematic design accordingly

Deliverables:

• Updated schematic plans, concept boards

PHASE 3 | DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

Finalise all architectural design, technical details, and specifications.

3.1 Detailed Design & Architecture

• Elevations, sections, bespoke architectural elements

• Joinery, millwork, bespoke details drawn at technical scales

• Coordinate structures, MEP, lighting

Deliverables:

• Developed plans & elevations

• Detailed millwork and architectural documentation

3.2 Lighting & Electrical Design

• Refine lighting design

• Integrate daylight and artificial layers

• Coordinate electrical, data, and automation needs

Deliverables:

• Lighting plans & control strategy

• Electrical layouts

3.3 FF&E Finalisation

• Confirm furniture selections, fabrics, surface finishes

• Specify vendor, lead times, upholstery schemes

Deliverables:

• FF&E schedule with SKU & vendor details

• Budget update with allowances

3.4 Procurement Strategy & Specification

• Tender packages for contractors

• Technical spec documents

• Performance & sustainability criteria

Deliverables:

• Procurement package

• Specification documents (materials, finishes, performance)

PHASE 4 | PROJECT EXECUTION & INSTALLATION

Translate design into reality with quality control, coordination and final refinement.

4.1 Construction Documentation

• Produce comprehensive technical drawings + schedules

• Coordinate with structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers

Deliverables:

• Construction drawings

• Detailed specifications

4.2 Tendering & Contractor Engagement

• Issue tender documents

• Analyse bids & negotiate

• Finalise build partner

Deliverables:

• Tender report

• Contractor selection recommendation

4.3 Construction Administration

• Review submittals & shop drawings

• On-site coordination

• Quality inspections & RFI management

Deliverables:

• Site visit reports

• Punch lists + compliance verification

4.4 Installation & Styling

• Oversee furniture delivery & installation

• Art placement, accessories curation

• Final styling to realise the design narrative

Deliverables:

• Photographic documentation

• Styling day report

DELIVERABLE SUMMARY (by Phase) | Interior Architecture & Design Process

Phase	Key Outputs
Discovery & Analysis	Vision, site analysis, concept boards
Schematic Design	Floor plans, materials, mood boards, and lighting outline
Design Development	FF&E specs, detailed joinery, lighting & electrical plans
Execution	Construction docs, final install, styling & photography

Jessica Lightbody's Interior Architecture & Design Process in Summary

Jessica Lightbody's Interior Architecture & Design Process is a structured four-phase journey that transforms vision into refined, architecture-led living environments. Rooted in spatial intelligence, material integrity, and meticulous detailing, each phase ensures clarity, creativity, and precision from concept to completion.

Phase 1: Discovery & Concept Development

We begin by understanding the client’s lifestyle, aspirations, and architectural context. Through in-depth consultation, site analysis, and concept creation, we establish a cohesive design narrative, spatial strategy, and preliminary material direction.

Phase 2: Schematic Design

The concept evolves into considered spatial planning, initial layouts, and curated material palettes. Lighting strategies, finishes, and key furniture pieces are explored to define the project’s architectural language and overall aesthetic direction.

Phase 3: Design Development

This phase refines every detail. Bespoke joinery, technical drawings, lighting and electrical coordination, and final FF&E selections are carefully specified to ensure design integrity, functionality, and buildability.

Phase 4: Project Execution & Installation

From construction documentation and contractor coordination to final installation and styling, we oversee every stage to ensure seamless delivery. The result is a timeless, cohesive interior that reflects both architectural precision and elevated living.