"I like to ask questions such as, 'Tell me about your ideal space.' I bring an open-ended approach and reserve closed-ended questions when I require a targeted response for topics such as the budget and timeline. When asking discovery questions, I get to know my client and their habits in the space that we are re-designing. For instance, if we are in their home, I will say, 'Walk me through your living pattern, from morning to evening.' Or, I will say, 'Can you show me your morning routine?' I want to see how they move about their house so that everything flows and remains convenient when their new design is in place. I will say, 'Tell me how you want to feel in this space,' which is a terrific way to gain an idea of the feelings that I should elicit in my design. Open-ended dialogue is critical so that I know the client will get what they want out of the design project in both the look and overall vibe."
