As we have passed the year milestone for the Covid-19 pandemic, we are all still trying to adapt to the ‘new normal’. Like many markets experiencing a shift in technology, it is clear to see a future for interior design that uses online technologies rather than solely face-to-face contact.
This may well see a significant increase in virtual consultations; luckily for us COVID-19 and working from home has meant many of us have become experts in this. It can be a daunting thought when things change. As we are entering this golden age of virtual engagement, it is crucial to understand how to make kitchen and bathroom consultations work over zoom.
What is a virtual consultation?
A virtual design consultation gives you the opportunity to meet with experts online to discuss how they can help redesign your home. Today’s technology makes it easy for designers to host virtual meetings and to create and share realistic architectural renderings with clients. It is hard to picture how you can plan a whole brand new renovation simply over zoom, however this is actually a very safe and convenient way to get the ball rolling. Virtual consultations allow an interior designer to get a broad picture of your home and a clear understanding of what you are looking for. This then allows them to start transforming your ideas into a beautiful space.
Virtual consultations offer ease and accessibility; they allow you to discuss ideas and come up with designs that express your visions all while social distancing. There are many ways in which companies are adapting to this new way of working. They are offering 360 degree panoramas, 3D kitchen planners, virtual showrooms, a birds eye view and even virtual ‘walkthroughs’. It is clear to see that a lot of effort is going into making sure that consultations online are beneficial for everyone.
We have all spent countless hours in web-based meeting rooms over the past year, whether that is for work, quizzes with friends or just family catch ups. It has played a key role in all our lives and will continue to do so. Communication matters when it comes to designers, in fact it is vital. Zoom has allowed face-to-face discussions to continue. Due to its added features, it allows designers to share their screen meaning clients can still see floor plans and sketches, providing instant feedback in real-time.
What will happen during a virtual consultation?
So, now that it is understood what a virtual consultation is, you are probably wondering how it will actually work. It is important to keep in mind that every designer will work differently, however there is a general process that will be followed. This is a very collaborative process between the client and the designer, so just like a face-to-face consultation, everyone will be involved. It will start by discussing what you are looking for design-wise and then your budget and timeframe. With a consultation over zoom, you will spend time walking your designer through the different rooms you want to work on so that they can get a feel for your home in more detail. Then a lot of the planning will be done via email and virtual communication, so you will still be in regular contact with your designer. Apps such as Pinterest will play a huge role within your design process as it allows you to send your visions over on a board to them, from which they can adapt to your home. Ultimately, the consultation part is a way to start the conceptual process, listen to your decor dilemmas and learn more about your vision in detail.
What are the benefits of having a consultation through zoom?
Like many things there will always be advantages and disadvantages; luckily there are many benefits when it comes to having consultations online. One of the main benefits is that you can try things before you buy them. It allows you to see exactly how new furniture and decor will look and fit into the room you are having done. You will be getting the traditional design service without the hassle of figuring out when you have time to squeeze in an in-person meeting. Of course there is always the added bonus that virtual consultations allow you to design your dream home from the comfort of your sofa. You can work on your design anytime and anywhere.
It is easy to see that online meetings have the potential to become a normal part of interior design. Understanding how to make kitchen and bathroom consultations work over zoom is the first step in the design process of your home. It will take a lot of communication, teamwork and adaptation but virtual consultations will be the new normal in no time. By looking at the different benefits of virtual consultation, it is also clear to see how this will have a positive impact on the interior design industry and for customers too. The main outcome will always be to ensure that as a client you have gained the most from your experience and that your dream home can in fact become a reality.
Our goal at Appletree Interiors will always be to help create a space that you are happy with. We understand the impact that the pandemic has had on us all and are looking forward to getting back into the swing of things. We can also fully understand some customers will still be apprehensive visiting a showroom while the pandemic remains. Therefore, we also offer an alternative virtual service. If you have any queries regarding your bathroom or kitchen design – or if you just want a fresh start – then don’t hesitate to contact us on 01905 936260 or drop us an email on info@appletree-interiors.co.uk.
