What we do
Gairdner Design is a residential design studio grounded in the meaningful work of creating homes our clients will love for years to come.
We are entrusted with full home renovations, additions, new builds, and comprehensive interior decorating projects.
We serve our clients with a guided approach, careful planning, committed management, and winning execution. As a boutique firm, we specialize in customized design through a curated approach that feels elevated, thoughtful, and quietly refined.
Our mission is simple; we’re here to help make it happen.
How we do it
We generally start at the very beginning stages of the design process, working alongside our clients’ architects and builders, so that we can help navigate the journey from concept design all the way through to final installation of furnishings and decor.
Our Phases of Work are staged in the following way:
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After initial design meetings together we conceptualize the design in the form of plans, sketches, drawings and mood boards so that we can convey the design intent we have set for the project.
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After conceptual design approvals, we further develop the design with more detailed drawings, 3D renderings, we collect material finishes and samples and layer the curated design story for you to touch, feel and view in a collected and concise way
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We select the furniture, lighting, art and decor for your project. We start ordering from our trusted vendors and custom fabricators. We schedule the arrivals of all goods to site, and manage the deliveries.
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We make sure the design intent is carried through on site, every step of the way. We ensure things run as smoothly as possible, and manage any issues that may arise.
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As furniture arrives, we manage the placement and styling for you. We will be there to accept the deliveries, unbox and remove the garage, place everything where it goes, and watch it all unfold beautifully. We love this part!
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We perform a project walk through to make sure you are happy with everything. We will present a final budget reconciliation and review it with you, and we will give you your hand-off package containing everything you need to know going forward. Cue happy dance!
Just a little help, please
DESIGN CAPSULE
The Design Capsule is meant for those who would like guidance, support and experienced design direction when making key design project decisions. Having a designer at your side can provide assurance that you are making the right decision. And who doesn’t like a little less overwhelm in their life?
Within a set number of hours, you’ll make efficient, well-considered decisions while partnering with someone just as invested in making it magical as you are.
Note: The Design Capsule is not for you if you need drawings, plans, schedules, procurement of furnishings, installation, project oversight or construction of any kind.
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we can come along to furniture stores and showrooms
we can pick the winning wallpaper, paint or stain colour
select tiles, counter materials, flooring or wall finishes
we can look at your plans, drawings or sketches and work through space planning, cabinet designs or where the sink should go
we can refine flow, function and optimal use of space
we can remove the overwhelm, worry, and general disease and help make the right decision the first time
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An in-person design consultation. This meeting is for ideation, planning and inquiry
We will take photos and create an inventory list of items we are keeping in the future design scheme
A Plan of Execution: defining what you need, where we go to find it, how we make it happen
A Cost Estimate: an estimate of how much your design vision will cost including all variables
Time: A designer’s undivided attention and consideration on all the decision-making, selecting and shopping necessary for the project
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Some of your own ideas for the space in the form of: pins boards, cut outs, sketches, photos, favorite colours or some expression of what you are after
An idea of what you want to financially invest toward this project
A measured plan of the space is necessary when shopping for furnishings. If you do not already have that, we can certainly measure the room before we start.
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Design Capsule is structured as a fixed time allotment for a fixed fee.
A single capsule is 6 hours of design consultation at $1,850 plus hst, and includes a lunch break along the way.
Fill in the form below to learn more about Design Capsule