interior designers with over a decade of international experience in hospitality, retail, and commercial design.

Whether it's a boutique hotel, a beer garden, or a dynamic office space you’re building, we work collaboratively to walk the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Our design services follow a clear and organised path. These stages are completely flexible depending on project needs, but in our experience the core stages of most projects are:

1. Phase One: Design Consultation and Measure Up

   We have an in depth workshop and conversation about what you are looking to achieve and what you can expect from your budget. We take photos and dimensions of the space/s and/or property. LIM reports are ordered as needed, and we ask for any drawings you may have copies of.

2. Phase Two: Design Presentation

   We share a Google Slides file with comparative examples and some initial sketches. This is a collaborative document that we ask you write notes in and even add in your own inspiration images. This phase makes sure we are all on the same page. We will offer some initial space planning studies (e.g. the traffic flow of guests through your space, and how different layouts impact how many people you should expect to host).

3. Phase Three: Design Drawings

   We produce a set of drawings and 3D renderings, and send out a package of material samples for review. This is also a collaborative phase that we ask for open and honest feedback on. We will also get some initial pricing from trades to review against the budget.

4. Phase Four: Construction Drawing and Consenting

   We flesh out these design drawings to create construction documents, and obtain mechanical or structural engineering drawings as required. We have partners who will send these out for council permitting if necessary. This can happen concurrently with the bidding phase below.

5. Phase Five: Bidding Phase
   We send out drawings to contractors to receive final pricing, and make sure we are meeting budget and schedule. Shop drawings from cabinet or furniture makers are also reviewed.

6. Phase Six: Construction Supervision & Project Management

   The trades get to work! We attend site meetings and walk through regularly to deal with any hiccups. We keep you updated on progress and manage everyone’s expectations.

7. Phase Seven: Install
   If the project includes extensive movable furnishings, fixtures, or rugs, these are all held at a warehouse as they arrive. They are then moved in at one time, after construction is finished.

8. Phase Eight: Punch List and Close Out

   We walk the job to make sure it is finished to a high standard, and outstanding items are noted and fixed. Council sign offs are organized. Depending on the project, we ask if we can have professional photographs taken. We then all have a drink to celebrate a finished job!

At Studio Sio, we believe in the power of collaboration and continuous design development. We work closely as partners with clients throughout the entire design process, translating their vision into tangible concepts. We believe that we combine creativity, industry expertise, and a deep understanding of spatial design to craft unique and inspiring environments.