FROM VISION TO REALITY

From dreams to dwelling design— go behind the scenes of Sanctuaire Interiors' process with us.

At Sanctuaire Interiors, we believe home is more than a place—it’s a feeling. It’s where your daily rituals unfold, your family gathers, and your personal story takes shape. Designing spaces that reflect those meaningful moments drives everything we do.

For those watching from the outside, interior design can seem mysterious. How do we turn an empty or dated room into a beautifully finished space that truly feels like home? The reality is that each project results from countless detailed decisions, months of thoughtful planning, and an ongoing dialogue between our team and our clients.

Let's pull back the curtain and share exactly how we bring your vision to life—from our first conversation to the final finishing touches.

The Consultation:

Listening Comes First

Every project begins with a conversation. Whether it's around your dining table, at a home under construction, or over coffee in our Exeter studio, our first priority is listening. We pay close attention—not only to what you want (such as “a more functional kitchen” or “a serene living space”)—but also to how you live, what matters to you, and the atmosphere you envision.

We’ll walk through the space together, take initial measurements, and assess the layout, lighting, and architectural details. More importantly, we ask insightful questions that uncover the essence of your home. Do you entertain often? Do you require ample storage for children’s belongings? Are you early risers craving morning sunlight, or night owls seeking a cozy retreat?

Getting this foundation right streamlines the rest of the design process.

The Creative Core: Building the Vision

Inspiration rarely stems solely from Pinterest boards. Often, it begins with something deeply personal—a photograph from a memorable trip, an heirloom pottery piece, or even a beloved wardrobe color. We use these unique elements to craft mood boards and establish a cohesive design direction— be it earthy and natural, elegantly European, boldly sculptural, or softly tonal.

We carefully consider textures as much as colors, defining precisely how each space should feel: warm and inviting, or fresh and airy. This stage is about capturing the soul of your home and ensuring complete alignment with your personal vision, laying a thoughtful and intentional foundation for your design.

Client Presentations: Vision Takes Shape

Once your design concept is refined, we bring the vision to life through a detailed, tangible presentation. Imagine finish samples you can feel, fabric swatches catching the perfect light, detailed renderings, and carefully curated selections of furnishings and fixtures. Every choice is intentional, every element part of a harmonious story.

This tactile, immersive experience allows you to engage firsthand with your future home’s materials and aesthetics. Practicality and beauty meet here—sometimes requiring adjustments for functionality or budget. It’s about perfecting the nuances, selecting a chair with the ideal sculptural silhouette, or choosing tiles that add just the right amount of visual depth.

Above all, this phase is highly collaborative. It’s where your space becomes not only beautiful but also personally meaningful, reflecting your tastes, lifestyle, and story.

Design Development:

Strategy Meets Style

With a clear vision established, we transition into practical solutions. Here, detailed floor plans, layout studies, and initial design concepts come to life. We source materials and finishes, carefully consider architectural details, and align everything with your budget and project scope.

This phase is both creative and technical, turning abstract ideas into precise plans using CAD drawings, 2D elevations, 3D renderings, and detailed construction documents. These valuable resources clearly communicate the design intent, allowing contractors and tradespeople to execute your project accurately and efficiently, whether for new builds or remodels. The numerous behind-the-scenes decisions made here ensure everything seamlessly aligns.

Whether it involves structural changes or furnishings, these documents offer clarity, instilling confidence and understanding in clients and professionals alike.

Project Management: Your Advocate Through Every Detail

As construction or remodeling begins, our role evolves into proactive project management. Working closely with contractors and tradespeople, we serve as your advocate and primary contact throughout the entire build. We navigate complexities, address on-site questions, swiftly resolve unforeseen challenges, and consistently ensure adherence to the original design vision.

Our goal is to provide clear communication, efficient problem-solving, and flawless execution, giving you peace of mind from start to finish.

Procurement & Installation: Bringing It All Together

With construction well underway or nearing completion, we shift our attention to procurement and logistics. Orders are placed, shipments tracked, and timelines carefully managed. We coordinate closely with suppliers and tradespeople to ensure every detail is perfectly timed for installation.

Installation day marks the culmination of months of meticulous planning. Furniture arrives, artwork is positioned, and every accessory styled to perfection. Candles are lit, drapes steamed, and pillows fluffed, crafting a space you can experience with all five senses.

The Reveal: A Moment to Remember

Nothing compares to seeing our clients’ reactions when they first enter their completed space. Sometimes it’s quiet relief, other times joyful tears—but always deeply personal. This moment is the true reward of our process: creating more than just a beautiful room—a home that genuinely reflects you.