
Frequently asked questions
Good questions.
Thoughtful answers.
A little clarity before your next chapter.
Your project starts
with a conversation.
From finding the right space to understanding our role, these are some of the questions you may have. Every project is different — we’re always happy to talk through yours.
01 / Getting started
Before we
begin.
What types of projects do you undertake?
We design commercial interiors for landlords, developers, occupiers and hotel operators. Projects include workplace interiors, reception and communal areas, landlord works, CAT A and CAT B schemes, refurbishment and hospitality spaces. Tell us about your project and we’ll discuss where we can add value.
Where do you work?
Our studio is based in Harrogate, and we work with clients across the UK. The level of studio, remote and site involvement is agreed around your project and appointment.
When should we involve RU Creative?
Early conversations help establish what you need, what the building can support and where to focus your investment. You can involve us before choosing a property, when developing a brief or once you have a space ready to transform.
Can you help us assess a property before we commit?
We can explore layouts, undertake agreed surveys and assess the design potential of a space. Feasibility and test-fit work can help you compare options and identify matters requiring specialist advice before you move forward.
What do you need from us to get started?
A location, approximate area, intended use, initial budget and preferred timescale are a useful starting point. Existing plans, photographs and any known building constraints also help. If you’re still shaping the brief, we can develop it with you.
Can I visit a completed project?
Where possible, we can arrange a visit to a completed project relevant to your brief, subject to our client’s permission and availability. It’s an opportunity to experience the space, see the quality of the finishes and discuss the thinking behind the design. Where a visit isn’t possible, we can share photography, project films and case studies.
Experience our work
Some things are
better experienced.
Light, texture, scale and atmosphere. A visit can help you imagine the possibilities for your own space.
Ask about a project visit Visits by arrangement, subject to client permission.02 / Services & appointments
The right
support.
Can we appoint you for interior design only?
Yes. Your appointment can cover the design stages you need, from brief development and space planning through to concepts, developed design and technical information. We agree the scope, deliverables and responsibilities at the outset.
Can furniture procurement be a standalone service?
Yes. We can help with furniture specification and procurement as a separate appointment, or as part of a wider interior project. We’ll establish your needs, budget, existing pieces and programme before developing the furniture package.
Can you work with our existing contractor?
We can collaborate with your appointed contractor and consultant team, providing the design information and support included in our scope. Clear communication and agreed responsibilities help carry the design through to completion.
Do you work client-side or under a main contractor?
We can be appointed directly by the client, or novated to the main contractor where agreed. Novation transfers the design appointment to the contractor. Our role, responsibilities and continuing design support are defined in the relevant appointment documents.
Who undertakes the construction works?
Construction is undertaken by the appointed contractor. RU’s role may include design development, technical information, furniture procurement and delivery support, depending on the appointment. We make the division of responsibilities clear before work begins.
Meet the people behind the spaces
A closer look
at our studio.
How we explore ideas, work with materials and shape a project together.
03 / Budget & programme
Planning
ahead.
How are your fees structured?
We prepare a fee proposal around your brief, required stages and level of involvement. It sets out the services, deliverables, payment arrangements and any exclusions, so you can understand the appointment before proceeding.
Can you work within an agreed project budget?
We use your budget to guide the design and specification, reviewing priorities and options as the scheme develops. Surveys, supplier quotations and contractor pricing help establish whether the proposed scope aligns with your available investment.
How accurate is the cost calculator?
It provides an initial planning range based on the details you supply, after you submit your project and contact information. It is not a quotation. Building condition, services, location, specification and programme all affect the cost. A project-specific assessment is needed to develop a reliable budget.The planner is a starting point for discussing your project. Final budgets depend on the project brief, specification and confirmed scope.
How long will our project take?
The programme depends on the scope, approvals, procurement lead times and construction requirements. Once we understand your brief, we can discuss a realistic sequence of design stages, key decisions and delivery milestones.
How are changes to the brief handled?
We discuss proposed changes with you and identify their implications for design work, cost and programme. Any additional services or revised scope are agreed before we proceed with the affected work.
04 / Delivery & completion
Bringing it
together.
Can a refurbishment happen while we remain open?
A phased approach may be possible, depending on the building, works and operational needs. We can help explore the design and sequencing with your contractor, who will assess construction logistics, safe access and site arrangements.
What support do you provide during delivery?
Depending on our appointment, we can respond to design queries, review proposed substitutions, coordinate furniture and provide agreed site support. Our involvement helps carry the design intent into the completed space.
What happens at handover and after completion?
We agree our completion and aftercare involvement as part of the appointment. This may include design reviews, furniture installation coordination and support with identifying outstanding items. Contractor defects and supplier warranties are addressed through the relevant contracts.
Have a question
about your space?
Let’s talk about what you have in mind.
