Concept-Only Design: What It Is, Who It’s For, and How It Differs from Full Service
If you’re planning a renovation or furniture update, the first question isn’t “What sofa should I buy?” It’s usually:
“How much help do I actually need?”
This post breaks down what Concept-Only Design includes, who it’s best for, and how it compares to Full Service — so you can choose the right level of support for your project.
What Is Concept-Only Design?
Think of this as the design starter kit. You get a clear layout, a visual direction, and a few realistic renderings — all without committing to deep involvement or full-service support.
This option is great for clients who are ready to renovate or furnish, but plan to manage the execution on their own (or with a contractor).
What you’ll get:
Floor plan layout(s)
Concept board(s) with finishes, colours, and materials
Furniture and lighting direction (if applicable)
3D rendering(s) of space
A brief written summary with design intent
Who It’s For
Concept-Only isn’t just for homeowners — it’s also a smart move for boutique business owners building out studios, offices, or small commercial spaces. If you’re not quite ready to commit to full-service design but need a strong creative foundation, this gives you something solid to bring to contractors and stakeholders.
This service is also a great tool for getting preliminary quotes. Contractors can’t price what they can’t see — so having clear layout plans, finishes, and renderings helps you collect accurate estimates before you’re too deep into a project.
It’s ideal for:
Homeowners renovating kitchens, bathrooms, basements or an entire main floor
Small business owners planning a buildout
Clients looking to get realistic pricing before hiring trades
Anyone who wants a strong visual direction without full-service commitment
Why Choose Concept-Only?
It offers flexibility and focus. You get expert input up front, and freedom to move at your own pace.
Clients choose Concept-Only because they:
Need help seeing the possibilities of a space
Don’t need sourcing or project management
Like being hands-on
Want to avoid costly design mistakes
Want to start with a strong visual foundation
Concept-Only vs. Full Service
Sometimes a visual side-by-side helps. Here’s what’s included in each:
| Concept-Only Design | Full Service Design | |
|---|---|---|
| Floor plan layout(s) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Moodboards & finish suggestions | ✓ | ✓ |
| Renderings | 1–2 per space | As needed |
| Detailed drawings/specs | ✗ | ✓ |
| Sourcing & shopping links | ✗ | ✓ |
| Trade coordination | ✗ | ✓ |
| Install support | ✗ | ✓ |
| Ideal for | DIYers, confident renovators | Busy clients wanting full support |
| Starting investment | From $2,000 | Dependent on project size |
What If I Still Need More Help After the Concept Plan?
No problem at all! This service is designed to give you flexibility.
If you decide you’d like continued support, we can keep working together to move into the next phase of design development or transition into a full-service engagement. Whether that means sourcing and specifications, coordinating with trades, or seeing the project through to install, your concept becomes the foundation we build from.
You’re not locked into anything — but the option is there if and when you need it.
Still Unsure? Let’s Chat.
If you’re between the two options, a quick discovery call can help clarify what kind of design support you actually need — no pressure, just a conversation. Whichever way we work together, the goal is the same: a space that feels thoughtful, functional, and genuinely yours.