What Happens If I Need the Project Finished by a Certain Date (e.g., a Holiday or Event)?
We often joke that when clients say they need a project finished by Thanksgiving, they really mean the following Thanksgiving. But in all seriousness, we understand that timelines matter—especially when a holiday, special event, or milestone is on the horizon. At R. Nickson Interiors, we take deadlines seriously, but we also set realistic expectations about what can be achieved and when.
Here’s how we manage timelines and ensure your project stays on track, even if you have a hard deadline.
Honesty About Timelines from the Start
When we begin working with a client, we are very upfront about the project timeline. If you have a specific event, such as a holiday gathering or a special occasion like a wedding, we need to know about it from the beginning. By communicating these goals early on, we can plan accordingly and make sure the materials and furnishings we order are either in stock or available for quick shipping.
At R. Nickson Interiors, our 15-step design process ensures that we cover every detail without skipping steps. This is crucial for maintaining quality and ensuring the project is executed correctly. While we understand the urgency of certain timelines, we do not rush through steps, as it could impact the final result.
Client Collaboration: A Team Effort
Staying on track to meet your deadline isn’t just up to us; it’s a team effort that involves everyone—our design team, the contractor, and you, the client. In order for us to meet your timeline, we require your cooperation throughout the process. Here’s how you can help:
Respond Promptly: When we send emails or requests for approval, the quicker you respond, the faster we can move forward.
Approve Design Boards Quickly: Once we present design boards, providing prompt feedback helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Limit Excessive Revisions: While we want you to love every detail, too many revisions or significant changes can slow down the process.
Timely Payments: We cannot place any orders until invoices are paid in full. To ensure everything arrives on time, swift payment of services and materials is key.
Understanding Delays: What to Expect
There are a few stages of a project that often feel like they’re taking longer than expected, especially if you’re working toward a specific deadline:
After Cabinets Are Installed: When cabinets are installed, there’s often a pause before countertops are templated. During this time, it may seem like progress has slowed down, but this is a normal part of the process.
Trim Work at the End of the Project: Towards the final stages, when all trades are needed to complete trim work, there can be delays in scheduling. While it may feel like little is happening, these trades need adequate time to finish their work well.
Is Your Timeline Realistic?
If your timeline is unrealistic for the scope of your project, we will be honest with you about it. We may suggest reducing the scope of work or pushing the start date back so that we can properly execute your vision without cutting corners. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your project and your timeline.
Conclusion: We’re In This Together
While we always strive to meet your desired timeline, it’s essential that both the design firm and the client work together as a team. By keeping the lines of communication open, staying on track with approvals, and making timely payments, we can ensure your project stays on schedule.
If you have a deadline coming up, contact us early so we can discuss the project, scope, and timeline in more detail. With honest communication and collaboration, we’ll do everything we can to make sure your project is completed on time and exceeds your expectations.
