During the last couple of weeks the tiler was onsite on one of my projects in Moonee Ponds. The builder had briefed him based on the information I gave the builder. But there was still a question of grout colour. While on site I noticed a mistake in the shower niche. Which made me reflect on how to communicate with tradespeople.
Specification List
You can find out more about what a interior design specification list here, but essentially it’s a list. A list of all the items, fittings, finishes, and fixtures selected for the project. This list contains information such as the name of the item, supplier, dimensions, costs, quantity, and price.
Sometimes the interior design specifications list includes visuals of the item. At the very least, it includes a link to the item. This allows both the client and tradesperson or builder to view and order the piece more easily.
A specification list is a key way to communicate with trades people. A builder may laminate this, along with the floor plan. These documents are kept onsite as a point of reference for the project for all tradies coming and going.
The specification list is supplied to the builder after it is confirmed and approved by the client.
Moodboard
Accompanying the interior design specification list is a moodboard. This is a visual representation of the items on the specification list and provides context. The moodboard is also useful to show the tradesperson the end result or the interior style goal and aesthetic vision.
Knowing the interior style goal from the outset of any project is critical. It is a key part of the interior design process. It forms the design strategy. However, a tradesperson benefits from understanding this goal. It aids in briefing them about their component of the project.
Images
Images in the form of 3D renders are helpful. Inspo pics of spaces with the item you like are also useful. They help communicate the look you’re trying to achieve to tradespeople.
A trades person has worked on many projects. They know there is more than one way that something can get done.
A picture helps to eliminate any assumptions about the work and what you want. It’s important to note that, for technical reasons, a piece might not be installed as per your original idea. It might also not be completed exactly as planned. There will always be a suitable alternative to consider that will not compromise the outcome.
Being there
There is no substitute in being onsite to communicate with trades people. For the project I mentioned above I told the builder how I wanted the tiles in the shower niche. And the builder told the tiler but there was a miscommunication, which happens.
By being there, I was able to rectify the situation. I personally explained to the tiler what I wanted and why.
Communication is key in any project. While all the tools mentioned above are helpful to communicate with trades people, mistakes will happen. So, it’s important to embark on a home renovation project with a solutions mindset. Knowing that if something goes wrong it will be fixed and will always look good.
