Your client demands more in a tight space. How can you negotiate effectively to meet their needs?

Understanding client needs is paramount in delivering successful design solutions. As Nura ElGhaib, Director of Interior Design at KKESH, KSA, my approach begins with assessing the standards for space and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). This evaluation provides a realistic framework within which to operate. Once you have this foundation, you can engage the client with a clear and feasible plan, ensuring that their aspirations align with practical possibilities. This method ensures that both client expectations and design deliverables are harmonized from the outset.

Achieving great design solutions requires a thorough understanding of the myriad client needs . First I start by evaluating the space and then studying the requirements for the indoor environmental quality . This assessment offers a practical foundation to work within. With this framework in place, I can engage the client with a plausible plan that makes sure their goals are in line with real-world opportunities. This process makes sure that from the beginning, client expectations and design outputs are in line with each other.

When a client demands more in a tight space, I start by thoroughly understanding their needs and conducting a detailed space analysis to identify the best possible solutions. I offer creative design options that maximize functionality within the constraints. Through clear communication, I present the impact of their requests on the overall design, helping them see where compromises are necessary. By negotiating wisely and focusing on practical adjustments, I ensure their key needs are met while finalizing plans that align with both the project vision and physical limitations.

In the initial evaluation of space for a client with only a small area available to use, it is critical to know exactly the items that are going to be used in that area to determine the most efficient structure to provide an aesthetic look and a practical use.

Recently I worked on a design for a client who wanted to fit an everyday office, a bedroom for regular use and guests, and a large treadmill all into a modest garage conversion. With a central entrance to the room and windows at each end of the room it presented a real challenge. Initially, the client felt that hiding the bed under a raised floor would be the answer but this seemed impractical for regular use. So I presented options to define and screen the spaces with simple wooden slats. Allowing the definition of use for each space while allowing light to flow through the room. Creating a light filled practical flex space.

Function before beauty always. I like to design for items most used close by and use vertical space accessed by step stools for infrequently used items. Maximizes the available space. Closed storage is also great for adding capacity while keeping a space tidy.

I start by removing all moveable object via Cad drawings. The structural items stay. Partition walls are gone making it easier to think differently about the space. Walks can be easily moved to game more functionality. Every space available can be captured when you see it in plan view. Now you can apportion space based on common and frequent tasks. I like to add the ability to morph the space by adding pull out/fold out surfaces that are only there when you need them. Utilizing vertical space can be key to getting more capacity in a tight space. Once you have an arrangement that maximizes function you can add the pizazz by selecting great looking, interesting and durable materials.

I feel it is important to balance honesty with creativity when negotiating with a client. I would start by clearly stating the spatial realities, helping them to understand the limitations while carefully listening to their priorities. I would propose innovative solutions like multifunctional furniture and concealed storage to maximize the space's functionality without compromising their vision. Not every demand can be met, but with smart design choices, we can address most concerns. By collaboratively prioritizing their needs, we can find a balance that satisfies their desires while staying within space constraints.

Tight space? Don’t forget the walls and potentially even the ceilings for more storage space and visually stimulating. Less is more. Stop the clutter. Slim line the furniture. Lighten up. Lighting is crucial, paint colors lighter, more neutral, furniture with clean lines. If wooden pieces, light stain colors.

In tight or small spaces that are multi-purposeful (functional) - I really find was to have flexible furnishings that can have multi-functions, a dining table that can be dynamic and change to a console table. A sofa that contains storage options. A love chair - seating for two - that has power functions and converts to a lounge chair when in use; A bed, that converts like a Murphy bed; module sofa that can be repositioned in the space depending on the needs. Keeping in mind the spatial requirements for circulation spaces, comfort, and aesthetic - also, I like to ‘fool’ the eye with design strategies that can make a space feel larger or cozier - with intent curated design can meet the demands of clients who need more.

Clear, open communication is the basis of any successful designer-client relationship, especially during the negotiation phase. By maintaining a transparent dialogue, designers can build trust, manage expectations, and ultimately deliver a project that exceeds the client's vision.

We have found that detailed design drawings and notes are just part to the final success of the project. Clients get lost in the details and many thing we take for granted they do not completely understand. We create points in the project to review design details with the client to make sure any questions are answered and confusion about small details can to discussed and resolved.