We begin with an in-person or virtual meeting to ensure we’re a great fit—both stylistically and personality-wise. During this meeting, we’ll share an overview of our process, the documentation you can expect, and what it’s like to collaborate with ESD. Whenever possible, we’ll also walk the space together or review any plans, images, or early ideas you’d like to explore.

After our conversation, we’ll prepare a detailed proposal outlining the cost of engaging ESD for your project. This Includes our projected time investment as well as an estimated budget tailored to your scope of work. If everything feels like the right fit, we’ll finalize the agreement and officially get started.

We approach design holistically, and the overall feel and aesthetic of your home guide every decision we make. To help us understand your vision, we use a detailed questionnaire designed to clarify your style preferences and how you want your home to look and function.

From there, we begin by measuring your space and developing a thoughtful plan. All information is translated into AutoCAD, and we typically collaborate with builders and architects early on to review details and align on strategy. We also create imagery boards based on our interpretation of your goals and needs. Establishing a clear direction—along with budget considerations and preliminary plans—allows us to move into the selection phase with confidence and purpose.

Once the direction is set, we move into the detailed selection phase. We typically begin with the foundations—architectural materials, millwork plans, and finishes—before progressing into furnishings. While we occasionally design custom pieces, we more often source unique items, including antiques and trade-only finds, to ensure each space feels thoughtfully curated and distinctive. Throughout this phase, we stay in close communication with our vendors to gather accurate pricing, confirm lead times, and make sure every detail is carefully considered. All information is continually updated in the budget so we remain aligned as the design develops.

We prepare comprehensive construction drawings, schedules, and site binders so your contractor has clear, precise documentation when it’s time to build. Everything is scaled properly to your space. During our meetings, we bring a range of materials to help you visualize the design, and we present multiple options as we refine selections together. The budget is adjusted as needed until we arrive at the final choices.

Each item purchased through ESD is issued on its own proposal, with all details—pricing, tax, and shipping—clearly itemized. We review every order thoroughly to ensure accuracy before sending it to you for approval.

Throughout this phase, we remain in close communication with our vendors, requesting fabric CFAs, rug strike-offs, and any other information needed before placing orders. Once proposals are approved by you, we convert them into purchase orders and continue to monitor each item’s progress, following up regularly until everything has arrived at our receiving warehouse or the jobsite.

Most furniture purchased through ESD is delivered to our local receiving warehouse, where each piece is opened, inspected, and checked for condition. If anything arrives damaged or incorrect, we manage the resolution at that stage. All items are stored in a climate-controlled environment until the full order is complete.

Once everything has arrived, we coordinate the delivery and installation. After the furniture is in place, we return with art and accessories to fully style the space. This final layer is an essential part of the design—it brings warmth, cohesion, and the finished look reflected in our portfolio.