How we work

A clear, considered
process.

From the first call to the day you sit down on a new sofa, you'll always know what's happening next, who's doing what, and how the budget is tracking. No mysteries, no surprises.

Book a discovery call
Step 01

Discovery call

A 30-minute conversation to understand the brief, the home, the budget. No commitment — we'll either feel like a fit or we'll point you toward someone who is.

  • Quick overview of the project and rooms involved
  • Indicative budget and timeline conversation
  • Walkthrough of how the studio works
  • Whether it's a Full, E-Design or Consultation
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Interior design detail by Lorna Smith Interiors
Interior design detail by Lorna Smith Interiors
02
Step 02

Consultation

A site visit (or video walkthrough). We measure, photograph, and most importantly listen — how you cook, how you host, what you actually love and live with.

  • Full site measure and photographic survey
  • Brief workshop with you (and partner, if relevant)
  • Honest opinion on layout, fabric of the home, scope
  • Written proposal & quote within 5 working days
Step 03

Concept design

We translate the brief into a direction. Mood boards, palette, layout options, key pieces. You see the personality of the rooms before any money is committed.

  • Concept mood boards per room
  • Material & colour palette
  • Layout options where helpful
  • Presentation meeting to walk through it together
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Interior design detail by Lorna Smith Interiors
Interior design detail by Lorna Smith Interiors
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Step 04

Design development

Once the direction is signed off, we get into the specifics — every fabric, finish, fitting, light. By the end of this stage, the room is fully specified down to the screws.

  • Detailed furniture & lighting specification
  • Joinery, fitted elements and electrical plans
  • Sample boards for sign-off
  • 3D visualisations where useful
Step 05

Procurement & build

We place every order, track every lead time, and manage every supplier and contractor. Items consolidate to our holding store. You hear from us weekly — not more, not less.

  • All purchasing handled by the studio
  • Weekly progress updates with photos
  • Site visits during build phase
  • Issue-resolution handled before it reaches you
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Interior design detail by Lorna Smith Interiors
Interior design detail by Lorna Smith Interiors
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Step 06

Installation & reveal

The fun part. We close the house for a few days, install everything in one push, style the final layer — and hand you the keys to a room that feels finished, lived-in, yours.

  • Furniture install across two to three days
  • Soft styling: art, books, lamps, layers
  • Final walkthrough & handover
  • Two-week snagging window after the reveal

Common questions

FAQs.

What areas of the UK does Lorna work in?

Based in Chichester, Lorna works on residential interior design projects across West Sussex, East Sussex, Hampshire, and Surrey. Remote E-Design is available UK-wide.

How much does an interior design project cost?

Every project is costed on its own requirements — from smaller, single-room jobs through to whole-home projects. Get in touch and we'll put together a tailored quote based on what you have in mind.

How long does a typical project take?

A whole-home interior design project usually takes four to six months from first consultation to final install. Smaller projects are quicker; larger renovations can run longer.

What does sustainable interior design mean in practice?

It means sourcing locally where possible, using eco-friendly paint and materials, working with vintage and antique pieces, and designing for longevity rather than trends. The aim is interiors that endure beautifully.

Do you work on commercial projects?

Yes. While the studio focuses on residential homes, Lorna takes on selected commercial projects — boutique hospitality, offices, and small-scale retail — where the brief calls for a residential sensibility.

Ready to start your project?

Start your project