Like most of us “sheltering in place,” we see every nook and cranny of our home space with a much more critical eye – how could you not when you’re staring at it 24-7?!? That ugly bathroom floor that you never got around to replacing when you moved into your house 10 years ago and now you can’t look at it one more day? We’ve got you covered!! We wanted to share how easy it is for us to help you create a beautiful space virtually. The project we are sharing here was done completely without in-person contact and it was just as much fun, and just as rewarding for the client (and for us) than if they had come to the showroom and made all their selections there. It really is easier than ever before thanks to technology. During this time of social distancing, and what will likely become somewhat of a new – normal, technology has been and will continue to be a life-saver. Phone calls, emails, Facetime, Zoom conference calls … all helping us keep in touch and stay connected.
We utilize these same virtual communication tools to help current projects progress and jump-start future ones. A quick email can start the process of a virtual design project — have an idea of something you’d like for your kitchen backsplash or a “look” you’d like to achieve for a bathroom remodel? Send your tile designer photos of designs you’ve found online that you like – this gives the designer an idea of your style and the direction of the project. Also send along pictures of the existing space & layout which will also assist in the design process. Pictures of cabinetry, countertops and fixtures can also be useful. We then can schedule our first official design conference call to start flushing out ideas. We’ll then virtually send you mock ups of ideas for the space and tile placement/tile design and pictures of tiles and stones that could work in the space. Through these virtual meetings, we’ll pair down tile selections to your favorites for each area.
Once a design plan is established for the project, the fun part starts – tile samples! Tile samples can be sent directly to your home. We feel that being able to see how the tile looks in the designated area along with how the lighting in the space works with your selections are key in the selection process. Having access to tile samples will also be helpful once it comes time to pick out paint colors and any other accessories for your space. Even grout selection can be done virtually — we’ll make recommendations for grout based on your tile selections, send grout samples directly to you, and follow up with a quick FaceTime meeting with your designer to make the perfect grout selections.
After selections have been finalized, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) drawings will be done. This way you will be able to see a bath floor layout, shower wall elevation, or backsplash rendering with the tile selections you have made. The beauty of these drawings is that they give you an ability to see a concept of your new space as well as different layout options. If you are debating between a subway pattern or herringbone pattern, two options can be drawn, helping make your decision that much easier. Any tweaking that needs to be done at this point can be done via email or a phone call. We’ll order everything and if you need help with installation we can coordinate with our preferred installation teams to get you on the calendar. All invoicing and payment can also be done 100% virtually.
We miss seeing all our clients but wanted you to know that your project doesn’t need to be put on hold due to the current “Social Distancing” situation. As you’re spending extra time at home, look around and see what projects we can help you with virtually – we are here to help make the design process simple, stress-free and enjoyable.
