PRODUCT SELECTION TIMELINE

ALL POSTSEXPERT ADVICEINTERIOR DESIGN
Written By Brian Hagood


At the final stages of design, we work with clients to select the specific products to be used in their projects. Our goal is to create a harmonized look in every space. We start the process by giving our clients a set of initial recommendations for each product, directing them to showrooms where items can be seen in person. We then meet to review finish samples, following up as needed with additional options. Once decisions are made, we input product information into detailed schedules, which the contractor uses to place the orders.

As these selections are made, we work to identify long lead times that require early purchasing. Otherwise—because design refinements are often made during construction—the contractor confirms product selections in a sequence that corresponds with progress made on site. As this process unfolds, changes are sometimes made, either because of lengthened lead times, budget concerns, or a change of heart. To avoid delays, it is important that all parties be mindful of the critical path and nimble when substitutes prove necessary. Below is a typical sequence of product selections plotted against five major construction milestones.

1. BEFORE FRAMING

  • Windows (including doors fabricated by the window manufacturer)

  • Front Door

  • Bathtubs

  • Plumbing fixtures rough-ins: typically for shower controls, wall-mounted toilets, and wall-mounted faucets (trim finish can be decided later)

  • Medicine cabinets (if recessed)

  • Fireplaces

2. ROUGH SERVICES INSTALLATION: PLUMBING, HVAC, ELECTRICAL

3. DRYWALL

4. CABINET FABRICATION

  • Cabinet paint/stain colours

  • Cabinet hardware

  • Exterior paving stones

  • Remaining paint/stain colours, including exterior & rainwater goods

  • Wood floor stain colour (unless using pre-finished flooring)

Brian Hagood
Previous

WOOD FLOORING
Next

CABINETS