October 23/30, 2017: Volume 32, Issue 10
By Christopher Grubb
Many homeowners want to be do-it-yourself designers, but much can get lost in translation. Projects can contain hundreds of details that can easily be misunderstood when a client attempts to verbally describe her wants to the contractor. Having a designer in the mix makes the process go far more smoothly. And when it comes to filling in those important details, a retailer can make the purchasing process a seamless one, resulting in a successful project for all involved.
At The International Surface Event in January, I will present “Contractors, designers, and retailers: Forging partnership for success.” Through an interactive discussion, I will explain how cultivating and maintaining relationships with other industry professionals can be mutually beneficial for all involved. By working together to create unforgettable design experiences for the client, designers, contractors and retailers can easily elevate their own success through long-term partnerships.
Over the course of my career, I have successfully cultivated relationships across the supply chain. I have shared my creative insights and design tips as a featured guest on various national special series, internationally syndicated shows and local news programs that have aired on ABC, NBC, HGTV and the Hallmark Channel, among others. During my presentation, I will explain how these solid working relationships provide many benefits to the overall project, often saving time, hassle, money and the contractor’s reputation.
I believe an interior designer cannot only help a contractor in producing a precise construction bid, but he or she can also prevent the contractor from morphing into a client’s designer, avoiding unnecessary project conflicts. Designers can have better access with retailers when it comes to tiered pricing. An interior designer can help clients select products and finishes, as well as discuss material costs or any product issues or concerns. This leaves the contractor free to focus on building and constructing the project.
Christopher Grubb, an internationally acclaimed and award-winning interior designer, is the president and founder of the Beverly Hills, Calif.-based firm Arch-Interiors Design Group. His presentation will take place Wed., Jan. 31, from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.