At Common Thread Interiors, we often hear the same question: “How long will this take?” And we get it—when you’re excited to see your dream home come together, waiting can feel hard. But here’s what we know for sure:

Exceptional design that reflects your personal style, supports your lifestyle, and endures for years to come doesn’t happen overnight. It requires thoughtful planning, conversations that allow for feedback, attention to detail, and the willingness to slow down and do things the right way.

These days, everything moves fast and everyone wants results yesterday. But when it comes to creating a home that truly reflects you, we think it’s worth slowing down. Here, we take a different path–one that values quality over speed, care over shortcuts, and style that lasts beyond the latest interior design trends. We call it Slow Design. It’s how you craft spaces that feel personal, thoughtful, and made to stand the test of time.

Our Design Process Timeline: What Slow Design Looks Like in Practice

We’ve developed a clear, structured process to guide our interior design clients from initial consultation to final install. Here’s what it looks like:

1. Discovery & Initial Consultation (Weeks 1–2)

Typically our clients email or call us first. Then we follow up with a phone call where we learn more about their project. From there, we either schedule an in-home visit or have them come into the Showroom for a meeting so that we can understand each client’s goals, style, timeline, and how you live in your space. After this meeting, we send over a customized proposal outlining our services and next steps.

2. Onboarding & Measurements (Weeks 2–3)

Once you’re on board, we schedule a visit to take detailed measurements and site photos. Also- this is the stage where our communications begins. Expect to receive emails from us at least once a week as we work to understand and implement your style. These emails continue until our work together is finished. 

3. Concept Development (Weeks 3–8)

This is where the creative magic starts. Our team develops floor plans, mood boards, and design concepts tailored to your lifestyle and preferences. We’ll present these ideas to you and gather feedback.

The creative process takes time—and that’s a good thing! It allows ideas to evolve, problems to be solved thoughtfully, and every detail to be aligned with your vision.

4. Sourcing & Selections (Weeks 8–10, sometimes up to Week 12)

From furniture and lighting to finishes, fabrics, and hardware, we hand-select every element with care. Each item is curated for your space, your style, and your needs. Once we finalize selections, we present a complete proposal with images, pricing, and lead times. This phase ensures every piece we source feels intentional and cohesive.

5. Procurement & Project Management

Here’s where “slow design” really pays off. Most of our upholstery and furnishings are custom in some way—fabric, size, finish, or construction—which means accuracy is everything.

Each order is reviewed by at least two (often three) sets of eyes before it’s submitted. Then the manufacturer performs their own internal reviews before confirming. That alone can take up to a week.
From the moment you say “yes” to a proposal, it often takes 2–3 weeks just to finalize and confirm factory orders.

We take this seriously. Mistakes are costly—not just financially, but in terms of time and trust. That’s why we slow down, triple-check everything, and communicate consistently.

While items are in production, we manage timelines, coordinate with contractors, and handle any hiccups behind the scenes. You’ll receive regular updates throughout this process..

6. Installation & Styling

Once everything has arrived and, if you were doing construction- your space is move-in ready, we schedule delivery and installation. We install furnishings, hang artwork, style bookshelves, and make the space feel finished. This is the part where your home truly comes to life.

7. Final Walkthrough & Punch List

Together, we walk through your finished space to ensure every last detail meets our standards—and yours. We note any final tweaks, wrap up loose ends, and make sure your home is ready for living.

How A Slower Approach Leads to Better Design

Because it creates:

• A home that feels tailored and livable, not rushed or generic
• A process built on trust, with clear communication and collaboration
• A final result that’s worth the wait—timeless, beautiful, and uniquely yours

Design isn’t just about choosing colors and furniture. It’s about crafting a space where your family can gather, grow, and thrive. We’re here to guide you through that process with care, clarity, and heart.

Thinking about a custom interior design project?

Let’s chat about how our slow design process can bring your space to life beautifully and thoughtfully.

Book a Consultation or stop by our Chestertown Showroom to chat with our team.