Why My Design Process Starts With the Studs
When clients begin a Charleston renovation, they often imagine paint colors, light fixtures, and furniture layouts. But before we can even talk about the perfect shade of blue or whether we’re choosing marble or quartz, my design process always starts in the same place: with the studs.
That may sound like a construction detail, but in reality, it’s the foundation of how I approach every project. By peeling back the layers of a home—sometimes literally down to the framing—we uncover the story of the house and create a design plan that not only looks beautiful but functions seamlessly for years to come.
Understanding the Bones of the Home
Charleston homes, from historic downtown properties to breezy cottages on Folly Beach, often come with quirks. Sloping floors, outdated wiring, hidden moisture damage, and previous renovations all impact how a space lives today. By starting with the studs, I’m able to assess the true condition of the home.
This step ensures that we don’t just create a design that looks good on the surface, but one that is supported by a sound structure underneath. It’s the difference between a renovation that lasts a few years and one that enhances your lifestyle for decades.
Preventing Costly Surprises
No homeowner wants to hear, “We need to rip this out and start over,” halfway through a project. Unfortunately, that’s a common scenario when design decisions are made without understanding the home’s existing structure. Starting with the studs allows us to identify issues early—whether that’s outdated plumbing, a wall that isn’t actually load-bearing, or insulation that needs replacing.
By addressing these realities upfront, we can minimize mid-project changes and unexpected expenses. In Charleston’s older homes, where surprises are almost guaranteed, this proactive approach saves both time and budget.
Designing from the Inside Out
Once we’ve looked at the studs, we can design with true confidence. This approach gives us the freedom to think creatively about layout, flow, and functionality. Do we need to open a wall to capture more natural light? Should we reconfigure the kitchen to maximize storage? Could shifting a doorway make a room feel twice as spacious?
Designing from the inside out allows us to make these big-picture decisions first. That way, when we move on to finishes and furnishings, everything aligns seamlessly with the structure beneath.
Collaborating with the Right Team
This is also where having the right team in place from day one makes all the difference. I always recommend bringing together the architect, interior designer, and contractor at the start of the project. When we’re all looking at the studs together, we can solve challenges collaboratively and build a plan that avoids costly missteps. This teamwork not only streamlines the process but also ensures that the design vision carries through construction exactly as planned.
Balancing Beauty and Function
Of course, starting with the studs isn’t just about preventing problems—it’s also about unlocking potential. When we strip a home down, we see opportunities that may have been hidden: higher ceilings, the chance to expose original beams, or a more open connection between spaces.
From there, we layer in the finishes and furnishings that bring your personality to life. The result is a home that doesn’t just look beautiful but is truly tailored to the way you live. In Charleston, where indoor-outdoor living is key, that might mean aligning French doors with a garden view or creating mudroom storage for sandy beach gear. These details only shine when the bones of the home are thoughtfully considered first.
Starting with the studs may sound like a builder’s job, but it’s actually the heart of my design philosophy. By understanding the structure before we dive into the details, we ensure that every renovation is not only beautiful but also functional, lasting, and aligned with your lifestyle.
In Charleston, where historic charm meets modern living, this approach is essential. It respects the integrity of our homes while making them ready for today’s families. And it’s what allows me to deliver designs that don’t just wow on reveal day, but continue to wow for years to come.