Interior designer Amy May smiling while discussing blueprints with a couple

What’s it Like to Work with a Full-Service Interior Design Firm, like Artala?

Working with Artala isn’t just about designing a beautiful space — it’s about creating a home that feels deeply personal, layered with meaning, and thoughtfully crafted around the way you live.

From the very beginning, we’re all in — guiding you through a collaborative, hands-on process where every detail is considered, every decision has intention, and your story is woven into the design. Whether it’s a small house renovation, a full-scale home remodel, or new construction from the ground up — we approach every project with the same care and creativity.

Here’s what our process looks like, and what you can expect along the way:

Here’s what our process looks like, and what you can expect along the way:

Before we design a thing, we get to know you.

This is a conversation-driven phase where we listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and take time to understand how you live, what brings you ease, and what feels like home to you — and what doesn’t. We’ll uncover what inspires you, what challenges you, and what dreams you hold for your space.

Together, we’ll establish a clear vision, budget, and scope for your project — creating a strong foundation to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Phase One: Schematic Design

Where your space starts to take shape — three ways.

With a deep understanding of your needs and lifestyle, we begin shaping your space from the inside out.

We’ll present three distinct layout options — not just drawings, but ideas that reflect the way you want to live and feel in your home. Together, we’ll explore, refine, and land on the direction that feels unmistakably right for you.

Phase Two: Materials + Fixtures

Where your home’s soul takes shape.

This is the heart of the design journey — where materials, textures, finishes, and furnishings come together to create the look and feel of your home.

We’ll present three distinct finish directions, curated with care — from textiles you want to sink into, to finishes that feel just right in your hand. You’ll experience samples in person, explore mood boards, and see your vision start to come to life in tangible, exciting ways.

Phase Three: Design Development + Documentation

Managing the details behind the scenes.

Once the direction is finalized, we handle all the technical documentation required for construction — from detailed drawings to permit coordination.

We navigate the logistics so you don’t have to — ensuring everything is built to specification, code-compliant, and ready for execution.

Phase Four: Design Management

We stay with you through the build — partnering with your contractor and trades, managing sourcing and procurement, and advocating for your vision every step of the way.

We handle ordering, deliveries, and installation — so everything arrives on time, beautifully coordinated, and ready for that final reveal.

The End Result

At the end of the day, this process is about more than creating a home you love — it’s about feeling deeply seen, supported, and cared for along the way.

Our role is to guide you, advocate for you, and design a space that doesn’t just look beautiful — but feels like you.

Because home isn’t just where you live — it’s where your life unfolds.

We’d love to hear what you’re planning
View of bathroom through doorway.
Photo of an open living space centered on a painting above a couch, next to a fireplace, and a decorative coffee table.
Designer kitchen with round table, natural wood cabinets, and silver chandelier.
Photo of wood and metal bedside table and part of a bed. There is a glass lamp and books on the table.
Open bedroom with bed, dresser, bedside tables, lamps, and a chair next a window.
Bathroom with tall, unique bathtub set into too a tiled floor shelf. Windows arranged in a diagonal light the space and a wood cabinet frames the left edge.
Bathroom sink and counter with mirror and wall sconces set in the foreground with part of the bathroom in the background on the left.
Bathroom interior showcasing a tiled, walk in shower with a glass door and wall. Matching wood cabinets frame the right side of the photo.
Thoughtfully designed living room with natural woods, cream couch and nature inspired painting.
Kitchen with grey marble counters, light wood cabinets, and soft grey accents.
Long view of kitchen with the oven at the far end of the photo, framed countertops and wood cabinets. A window on the left lights the scene.
Kitchen sink framed by wood cabinets below and to both sides, along with natural tone cabinets inset above.
Bar nook with unique colorful glass sculpture and light wood cabinets.
Dinning area set in front of a tall bay window overlooking nature and garden. A small table and two chairs occupy the foreground.
Stairwell with wood floor and steps, painted banister, and metal features 3 pieces of birch tree art.

Your Space. Your Style. Your Expression.

Grey Artala Art of Living brand logo
Open living space with wood ceiling beams from a Mercer Island remodel by Artala, Seattle residential architects
Elements.

Elements.

Mid-century dining space with bold blue backsplash from a seattle modern kitchen remodel
Expression.

Expression.

Renovated transitional style living room with black fireplace, large windows allowing natural light and beautiful ocean views
Tranquility.

Tranquility.

Focused redesigned contemporary style living room with four relaxed modern chairs. Large windows allowing for natural light.
Harmony.

Harmony.