The Design Group offers a full range of interior design services, including space planning, custom design, specification and procurement of all finishes, fittings and furniture for residential, retail, hospitality and corporate spaces.
Each project begins with an initial meeting with the client. We discuss the project in detail to learn about your personal lifestyle, company culture or the fundamentals of your business’ brand. Budgets and timeframes are also discussed at this point. This meeting is then followed up by a fee proposal, based on the design services required. Whether it is a new build, a blank canvas or rejuvenating an existing space, my aim is to design the space to suit the clients’ expectations and to support the individual needs of those using the space.
interior design
This is a specialized and professional service, ideal for new builds and renovations. The design process detailed below gives you more insight into what this service offers.
interior decorating
This service is ideal for someone looking to upgrade an existing space and bring it to life. It includes space planning and furniture layouts, designing custom made furniture if necessary and selecting furniture, finishes, fittings, soft furnishings, window treatments, fabrics, artwork and décor accessories. I will handle the procurement of all goods, overseeing and coordinating all the various suppliers as well as the final installation and quality control of all goods.
project management
This service involves regular site meetings where we oversee any subcontractors work and progress on site. To ensure that the overall interior vision is carried through from inception right through to completion and that the finished product is met within the client expectations, timeframes and budget.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What areas does The Design Group SA serve?
The Design Group SA is based in Salt Rock on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast and works throughout Ballito, Simbithi Eco Estate, Zimbali, Sheffield Beach, Umhlanga and Durban, as well as further afield for lodge and hospitality projects.
Do you offer a full turnkey interior design service?
Yes. A full turnkey project runs from concept and space planning through to detailed specification, procurement, production management, delivery and final installation. You appoint one studio and receive a finished, styled space — you are not managing suppliers, deliveries or trades yourself.
Do you design lodges and hospitality spaces?
Yes. Alongside high-end residential work, the studio takes on boutique lodge and hospitality projects, including Makatana Bay Lodge. Hospitality work covers guest suites, public and dining areas, and the durable specification these spaces need under commercial use.
How are your design fees structured?
The studio bills by the hour rather than on a fixed fee or a percentage of project value. You are billed only for the hours actually worked, and you receive a monthly timesheet showing exactly where time went. An estimated hour range is provided up front, and anything materially beyond that estimate is discussed and approved before it is worked. Décor and furnishing fees are built into the itemised quotation rather than charged separately. All fees exclude VAT.
How long does a typical project take?
A single-room décor project typically runs 8 to 12 weeks from brief to installation. A full turnkey home is usually 6 to 9 months, depending on build programme, custom joinery and imported lead times.
What does a first consultation involve?
An initial site visit and briefing meeting covering your requirements, the scope of the space and how you want to live in it. From there you receive a written proposal setting out scope, estimated hours and fee before any design work begins.