Scheer & Co. Interior Design

What do I do with design work we do that never sees the light of day? No, really, I’m asking: what should I do with all of that great work? 

Kidding, sort of. So far, what I’ve come up with is to share it on Instagram so you all know how we work and what we produce during the design process. 

Honestly, though, unused doesn’t mean wasted. A version of an idea almost always finds its way into another project eventually. One client’s loss is another client’s gain!

We don’t repeat details from one (finished) project to the next — I mean, the whole point of hiring an interior designer is getting something personal, thoughtful, and unique. But if a concept is never realized? Fair game.

For this design scheme, the clients’ vision shifted between the completion (and approval) of the conceptual design direction and these schematic visualizations. While they originally wanted to lean into the true character of their Folk Victorian home, once they saw that direction rendered, they realized there’s a big difference between a historic interior design style they loved looking at and one they want to live with every day.

That distinction has become a huge part of our design process. We now ask clients to get very honest about the difference between liking a look and wanting to live in it, potentially forever. Clearly determining that upfront has been a game changer. 

So there, I guess I answered my own question about what to do with designs that end up on the cutting room floor, which is less of a graveyard and more of a very organized waiting room.

A couple of details from this concept have already made their way into other projects. We installed the same living room light fixture in a recently completed project, and you may spot a similar custom banquette design in the coming year.

I’m still waiting for someone to let me layer up a wallpaper border on a ceiling in a way that references history but with a fresh take. Holler if that someone is you :)