How We Work?
Every Project Begins with a Conversation
Our process always starts with an open, insightful discussion. We take time to understand not only the building but also the people who live or work within it. Through these conversations, we uncover the unique needs, desires, and challenges involved. Open communication is at the heart of our approach, allowing us to gather essential information and build a comprehensive understanding of all human, technical, and creative aspects of the project.
Creating Spaces That Tell a Story
Working closely with our clients, partners, and advisors, we develop a program of requirements that reflects shared insights. Rather than imposing a vision, we collaborate to identify the best strategy, crafting a spatial concept that embodies the client's identity. Our designs are more than functional solutions—they have character and convey a story to those who use or experience the space, ensuring that it resonates on multiple levels.
From Concept to Reality
We transform ideas into fully realized spaces through a structured design process. Starting with conceptual sketches, we move through each phase—preliminary, final, and technical design as needed. Our designs include detailed floor plans, lighting, acoustic solutions, material selections, and installation plans. Every decision, from product choices to furniture and finishes, is made with care to ensure the space is cohesive and aligned with the vision.
Seamless Execution and Realisation
Throughout the execution phase, we provide creative direction and oversee all parties involved. Our extensive network of project managers, contractors, builders, and artisans ensures that every detail is executed to perfection. For larger projects, we collaborate with specialists in sustainability, acoustics, lighting, and installations, working alongside partner architects and designers from the broader creative industry. Together, we deliver projects that exceed expectations.
Our Services
Feasibility Studies
Gain a high-level strategic understanding of your project’s potential from the outset. Feasibility studies provide clarity on the viability of a project, helping you assess risks, resources, and opportunities before significant investment is made. We do this across scales at different phases in a projects development
Design Review
Need guidance on refining an existing design or wish to explore alternative approaches? - our design review process offers valuable insights. Whether pushing the design further, offering a re-think from a fresh perspective or even confirming your direction - we ensure the vision aligns with your goals and expectations.
Project Development
Transforming ideas into actionable plans is at the heart of our Project Development services. Whether you're envisioning a new build, renovation, or adaptive reuse, we bring clarity and direction to every stage of the process. By collaborating closely with you, we navigate the complexities of zoning, budgeting, and design feasibility to ensure your vision is both achievable and aligned with your goals. With our expertise, you gain a partner who turns uncertainty into confidence, guiding your project from concept to a strong foundation for success
Space Planning
The layout of a space shapes how people experience and interact within it. We prioritise the user experience by designing environments that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional, fostering comfort, well-being, and connection. By carefully considering factors such as circulation, light, acoustics, and purpose, we craft spaces that enhance productivity, performance, and quality of life. Thoughtful space planning also integrates complementary functions seamlessly, reducing inefficiencies and minimising the need for costly changes down the line, ensuring your space works as beautifully as it feels
Architectural Services
Our architectural services are designed to bring a shared vision to life with creativity, precision, and practicality. From concept design through to delivery, we manage every phase of the project, ensuring a seamless process and exceptional results. We balance innovative thinking with a deep understanding of building systems, regulations, and sustainability, creating designs that are both inspiring and achievable. Whether you’re embarking on a residential, commercial, or community project, we are committed to delivering spaces that reflect your aspirations while meeting functional, aesthetic, and environmental goals
Interior Design
Our interior design services elevate commercial spaces to achieve both aesthetic impact and operational excellence. We focus on creating interiors that reflect your brand’s identity while enhancing the user experience, whether it’s for customers, employees, or guests. From optimising layouts to selecting materials and finishes that balance durability with style, we ensure every detail contributes to a cohesive and functional environment. Whether you’re designing a hospitality venue, workplace, or retail space, our goal is to deliver interiors that not only look exceptional but also drive engagement, efficiency, and success
Visual Merchandising / Product Placement / Staging & Styling
In the final stage of a project, the space truly comes to life. Whether in a retail environment, hotel, home, or office, this is the stage where thoughtful product placement and styling enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality. From showcasing merchandise in a store to styling a living room or office, we focus on creating a cohesive and visually compelling experience that resonates with the space’s purpose and users.
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Workplace
There is a lot of pressure in the modern workplace - flexible yet focused - fun but functional!
We create workplaces that reflect the values and ambition of the people that work there - that are space-efficient and measurably improve productivity.
People tell us their new workplace is somewhere they enjoy spending time and that we hit the sweet spot of spaces that foster both collaboration and focused work.
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Commercial & Community
At Design the Commons, we are strong advocates for our clients and their business success.
We thrive on collaborating with entrepreneurs and mission-driven teams, bringing a holistic approach to design that goes far beyond aesthetics.
We are skilled at bringing thoughtful design into every facet of your business, enhancing both the staff and customer experience. We take a strategic view, ensuring our designs maximize resource use, elevate brand presence, and contribute to long-term ROI.
Most of our clients and projects do not fit neatly into one category - From commercial spaces to community-focused projects, we create environments that support growth, engagement, and sustainability.
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Residential Architecture
Don't Move, Improve - We can help you get more out of your current space - we’ve helped clients turn their existing home into their dream home they thought they would have to move to achieve. We do this by listening carefully, working within an agreed budget & timeframe and combining our own expertise and skill in bringing all the pieces together.
Maybe you are Interested in a vergunningvrij extension in your garden or a rooftop addition? We are experts in helping our clients make the most of this extra space and assembling the right building team to get this done!