A refined design process, thoughtfully carried through every project.
Inspired by each distinctive client, SHD’S work is rooted in crafting spaces that honor and engage daily rituals and values. Every project is designed to feel personal and unique in expression, yet unified by consistent design sensibility and attention to detail.
Collaboration is central to SHD’s process. By building strong client relationships, we create authentic spaces and experiences through the language of design.
SHD’s services are flexible and can be tailored to accommodate a range of project scales and typologies.
01
Plan & Discover
Pre-Design & VisioningWe begin by accessing and understanding your existing space to generate a usable floor plan. Through a guided and collaborative visioning session, we identify your functional needs and establish a design direction distinctive to you and the project.
02
Concept & Design
Schematic Design & Design DevelopmentWith feedback from the visioning session, we develop schematic options indicating preliminary layout, design intent, and possibilities. Inspirational and precedent imagery reinforces the design concept and ensures aesthetic alignment.
Once the basic plan has been approved, we refine and finalize the design through detailed drawings and identify finishes, furniture, and fixtures. Preliminary cost estimates help guide the project to meet design goals while staying within budget. If needed, value engineering options are identified for review and evaluation to help balance your vision with budget considerations.
3
Document & Procure
Design Documentation & ProcurementOnce the design has been finalized and approved, we coordinate and document all details to communicate the design vision. Organized drawings and specifications are compiled and submitted to builders and fabricators. These detailed drawings ensure the design is brought to life accurately.
During this phase furniture and finishes are finalized and procured. Coded plans are generated identifying individual items, extent, and quantity. Furniture specifications are developed for every item, providing detailed information on materials, finishes, and dimensions, so that each piece aligns perfectly with the approved design vision. Once specifications are finalized, we place the furniture orders and coordinate with vendors to help ensure each item is accurate and on schedule.
4
Construct & Implement
Construction Administration & Project CloseoutDuring fabrication and installation, we review progress on-site and coordinate closely with contractors and fabricators to ensure the design is executed as intended. Furniture deliveries, placement, and installation are managed, and a final “punch list” addresses any remaining details before the project is complete.
À La Carte Design Services
Beyond full-service design, Sondra Howell Design offers add-on services tailored to projects of varying needs, scope, and scale.
The following services may be engaged individually, as needed:
Space Planning
Custom Millwork Design
Art & Object Consultation & Sourcing
Bespoke Furniture Selection
Commercial, Retail, and Hospitality Design
Branded Interiors
