Are you overwhelmed with the chaos of an interior design project? Juggling plans, specs, and endless details can leave you feeling lost in a maze.
The solution is…the project binder – your ultimate tool for running your project smoothly from start to finish.
In this episode, I discuss the importance of a project site binder and how to set it up effectively to streamline your workflow and keep your sanity intact.
Imagine having all your project essentials neatly organized in one place, accessible to every trade on-site, ensuring seamless communication and coordination. That’s precisely what the project site binder offers. From comprehensive drawings and spec sheets to plumbing and appliance details, this binder becomes your job site bible, guiding you through every twist and turn of the project journey.
But the benefits don’t stop there! With a well-crafted site binder, you not only enhance efficiency but also elevate professionalism and client satisfaction. Picture handing over a beautifully curated client project binder at the project’s end, complete with warranties and maintenance guides, leaving your clients impressed and reassured.
If you wish there is a better way to keep everything organized and accessible during the project management phase of your interior design project, this episode is for you.
Tune in now to learn how to set up your project binder and take control of your projects like never before!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Learn how to organize all design project essentials in one accessible location and say goodbye to chaos
- Be empowered to take control of your projects with confidence
- Impress your clients with a curated client project binder at the project’s conclusion
Check out these episode highlights
02:19 – Purpose and physical description of a project site binder
Purpose: to make the aspects of the project accessible to any trades that may be on-site throughout the project
Physical Description:
a physical binder
a two-inch, three ring binders, one of those white ones that have clear plastic on the front
has a cover page, an outline, and tabs on the inside
has a note on the front of the binder that says it should not be removed from the job site
includes the designer’s contact information, as the general contractor, and any other on-site personnel who may need to contact the designer
lives on the site
03:05 – How to use a construction binder
Keep it in a safe place
Take it on-site visits
Use it to take notes or reference information
03:30 – Various documents and resources that go into a project site binder
1| Drawings
Floor plans
Electrical engineering
Elevation
2| Permit set
The most recent and accurate
Includes any updates made during the permitting process
3| Finished spec sheet
Details of materials and their location
Includes information like edge pieces, Schluter, color, and backsplash height
4| Plumbing and appliance specs
Specific details needed for plumbing and appliances
Light fixture specs for junction box placement
5| Design boards
Help to remember the original design intent
Useful for seeing the big picture of design
6| Furniture layout
Separate drawing from permitted drawings
Includes outlet and TV locations
7| Hardware and cabinet drawings
8| Revisions
In summary, a project binder is the Bible on the job site.
07:44 – Benefits of having a physical copy of a project site binder vs QR codes for project documentation
Availability even without cellphone/internet coverage
Presence in remote locations
Help in accessing information without a phone
Recording of changes or updates on site
In short, a project site binder is a living document – as the changes happen, the binder gets updated.
09:22 – Additional things to consider as you create your project binder
Inclusion of proposals (but without displaying pricing)
A list of everything supplied to the client (but with privacy of the client’s pricing information)
10:20 – How sizing information and SKU numbers on spec sheets help contractors find additional details
11:01 – How a project site binder is to go-to reference for contractors
11:57 – Project site binder as an essential tool for keeping the project running smoothly
Next Steps
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ and Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
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DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
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Thanks for listening. I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week…