About Period Design

Karen Candee ASID – Profile

Period Design became official in 2003, however, my passion for Interior Design has spanned over 30 years. As an Interior Design student at Michigan State I had an appreciation for art, which led me to a desire to improve our “built” environment. I feel that our living spaces should not just look nice, they should be comfortable and functional for the use they were intended. I try to understand the client’s goals and ideas for their space first and then make them a reality. I have often said that my design approach is not about me – it is about you (the client). I am just the means to which you achieve your goals.

I have worked for both small Interior Design firms, as well as, large Architectural firms. Therefore, I am happy to work on small projects such as choosing wall colors for your home to designing large commercial interiors which require preparing construction documents. I understand that to create a great space all of the trades must be coordinated, be it an engineer, architect, general contractor, as well as, the painter, carpenter and flooring installer. I manage your project as if it was my own by paying attention to details and making sure it stays on time and within your budget. I value your time to make sure you are not bothered by unnecessary details, yet included in design changes that affect the total outcome of your project.

Period Design, LLC Services

Design Process

The initial step is to meet and discuss your goals and design direction for the project. It is also very helpful to have a budget at this time so I may know how to design a space that works within your means. From there I will provide you with a fee proposal. It can include any or all of the following:

Space Planning
Color and Material Selections
Furniture Layouts and Selections
Lighting Design and Specifications
Custom Casework Design
Window Treatment Design and Fabrication
Signage and Artwork selection
Complete Interior Construction Documents for Commercial Spaces

Project Development

Once the fee is approved by you I typically work in the next series of Phases:

Schematic Design which briefly outlines what can be done with the space (a furniture plan and generic list of finishes is often shown).
Design Development which goes into detail all of the items that will be included in the design such as sketches of casework, furniture and light fixture selections, and presentation boards showing the colors and materials.
Contract Documents begins once “DD” is approved. It is a written document of specifications and drawings to outline what needs to be done by your contractor/builder to complete the project.
Construction Administration includes visiting your project to insure quality workmanship is used and to coordinate with your contractor on field issues and questions.

Residential Approach

I like to work informally with a home owner to assist them in selecting furnishings that are right for them. I want to be there as a “trusted partner”, one who they will feel comfortable calling for advice for years to come.

Commercial Approach

So much is being said about “developing a brand” or “green spaces”. I work closely with the visionary of your company, be it the CEO or the VP of Facilities. Together we create an interior for your firm that markets your business while using materials that are sustainable and maintainable.

Healthcare Approach

“Evidence Based Design” is a key to Healthcare Design now. It emphasizes the use of credible data to influence the design process. I select materials to reduce stress and improve safety with colors and finishes that promote healing and optimism. The result is improving the quality of care for patients, staff and visiting family members.