How we turn vision into lived-in luxury
At North House, we believe the best interiors aren’t just beautiful—they feel lived in, layered, and entirely yours. But what does it really take to get there? For many clients, the idea of starting a design project is exciting, but also overwhelming. Where do you begin? How do you know if your vision is even possible? And what if it doesn’t turn out the way you imagined?
That’s exactly why we’ve crafted a process that’s both structured and flexible—rooted in years of experience, yet tailored to the uniqueness of every space and every client. Here’s a transparent look at how we work, what to expect, and why our approach feels different (on purpose).
Step 1: Discovery
Every project starts with a conversation. Whether you’re designing your dream home or reimagining a commercial space, we begin by getting to know you—your lifestyle, your goals, and how you want the space to feel. This isn’t just a checklist. We ask the right questions, listen carefully, and observe what inspires you.
We also look beyond the aesthetic. Do you entertain often? Do you need spaces to recharge, collaborate, or create? We take time to understand not just how you want the space to look, but how it needs to work.
This discovery phase includes:
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A detailed intake form to understand scope and priorities
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A collaborative call or in-person meeting
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Review of inspiration boards, Pinterest saves, and anything else that reflects your vision
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Initial review of the site, floor plans, and existing conditions (if available)
The result? A shared foundation built on clarity and alignment—so we can move forward with confidence.
Step 2: Concept Development
Once we’ve mapped out your needs and style direction, we begin designing a concept that blends form, function, and feeling. This is where the creativity kicks in—and where North House begins to bring in the unexpected.
Drawing inspiration from California’s laid-back elegance, global design influences, and artful detail, we craft an initial visual direction that sets the tone for the project.
Depending on the project, this may include:
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Moodboards and material inspiration
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Color palette direction
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Floor plan concepts or space planning
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Look & feel presentations
Our goal in this phase isn’t to finalize—it’s to inspire. We’re opening creative doors and inviting your input, making sure the direction feels bold, personal, and totally aligned.
Step 3: Design Development
Once the overall concept is approved, we move into detailed design. This is where your vision becomes real—and where our technical expertise shines. Every decision is intentional, from material selections and finish details to custom furniture and lighting plans.
We coordinate:
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Full design documentation
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2D or 3D renderings when needed
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Material, textile, and fixture sourcing
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Custom cabinetry and millwork drawings
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Lighting, hardware, and finish schedules
Here, the soul of the project takes shape. We think through the tactile experience—how the textures layer, how the space transitions from day to night, how art and furniture ground the environment.
This phase is where we obsess over the details—so you don’t have to.
Step 4: Procurement & Management
You have a life. You don’t need to be tracking fabric backorders or coordinating with seven different vendors. Once your design is finalized, we handle everything—from ordering and tracking to white-glove delivery and inspection.
This includes:
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Procurement of furniture, art, textiles, and finishes
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Vendor coordination and communication
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Quality control, timelines, and delivery schedules
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Budget updates and approvals as needed
This is also where our background in both corporate and boutique design shines. We understand timelines, logistics, and how to protect the integrity of the design without compromising the client experience.
You get one point of contact. We handle the chaos behind the scenes.
Step 5: Installation & Styling
The final phase is when everything comes together. This is our favorite part—and often, yours too.
We oversee full installation, working with vendors, trades, and delivery teams to execute the design as intended. Then, we style the space to completion, layering in textiles, art, accessories, and those final touches that make the space feel personal.
This is where the space becomes more than just a design—it becomes a lived experience.
What you can expect:
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Seamless installation management
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On-site styling by our team
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Final walkthrough to review every detail
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Photography to document the space (optional)
The result? A space that feels like you—only elevated, curated, and complete.
What Makes the North House Process Different
It’s deeply personal.
We don’t believe in cookie-cutter design. Every decision is made through the lens of your story, your space, and your goals.
It’s calm, not chaotic.
You’ll never feel like you’re chasing answers or lost in the process. We manage the details so you can enjoy the transformation.
It’s collaborative—but guided.
You’re involved where it matters. We bring clarity and confidence to every stage, so you never have to guess what’s next.
It’s design with soul.
Our work is rooted in intention. We don’t just design to impress—we design to connect, to express, and to last.
Final Thoughts
Designing a space isn’t just about colors, layouts, or furnishings—it’s about how a space makes you feel when you walk into it. At North House, that feeling is everything. It’s the result of a process that values both creativity and precision, imagination and trust.
We’re not here to just make things look good. We’re here to make spaces that feel unforgettable.