Every project we take on is custom. This policy explains how a typical engagement flows, what is expected of you and of the studio at each stage, and how the design documentation is owned and used. It complements your individual proposal, which always governs the specifics of your project.
1. Purpose of this policy
The purpose of this policy is to make the custom design process transparent. Because we develop concepts rather than build objects, clarity about stages, approvals and responsibilities is essential to a smooth project and a buildable result.
2. Discovery and proposal
Engagements begin with a complimentary discovery conversation in which we explore your idea, your space, your constraints and your references. From this, we prepare a written proposal that defines the scope, deliverables, revision allowance, fees and an estimated timeline. Work begins once the proposal is accepted and any agreed deposit is received.
3. Concept development
In the concept stage we translate the brief into one or more visual directions, exploring form, proportion, material language and finish. This is the most creative phase, and your feedback here shapes everything that follows. We present concepts for discussion rather than as final drawings, so that the direction can be refined before detailed work begins.
4. Drafting and documentation
Once a direction is approved, we develop it into the agreed deliverables, which may include dimensioned drawings, a three-dimensional model, a material and finish schedule and written guidance for the maker. These documents are prepared so that a competent fabricator can quote and build from them with confidence.
5. Revisions and approvals
Each proposal includes a set number of revision rounds at defined stages. We ask that feedback within each round be consolidated and clear, so that revisions can be made efficiently. Formal approval at each stage allows the project to move forward; significant changes requested after approval may fall outside the included allowance and be quoted as additional work.
6. Materials and references you provide
You may share photographs, measurements, inspiration and other references to guide the work. By providing them, you confirm that you have the right to do so and that we may use them for the purpose of your project. We rely on the accuracy of measurements and information you supply; where these prove incorrect, additional work to correct the design may be chargeable.
7. Confidentiality
We treat the details of your project as confidential and do not disclose them to third parties except those assisting with the work, or as required by law. If your project is especially sensitive, we are happy to agree additional confidentiality arrangements in writing.
8. Ownership and licensing of concepts
Until the fees for the relevant stage are paid in full, all concepts, drawings and documentation remain the property of Craftlure Timber. On full payment, you receive a licence to use the final deliverables to build, accent, decorate or restore the specific piece or space for which they were created, as set out in our Intellectual Property Policy. The right to reproduce a design for repeated commercial production is granted only where expressly agreed.
9. Working with your fabricator
Our documentation is prepared to hand cleanly to the maker of your choice. During the build, we are glad to answer reasonable questions to protect the design intent. We do not, however, supervise or take responsibility for the fabricator's work, scheduling or pricing, which remain a matter between you and them.
10. Communication and decision points
Projects rely on timely decisions. We will identify the points at which your input or approval is needed and the information we require to proceed. Prompt responses keep the project on schedule; extended delays may require us to pause and reschedule the work around other commitments.
11. Pauses and changes in scope
If a project is paused at your request, we will hold the work for a reasonable period and resume when you are ready, subject to availability. Where the scope changes materially, we will discuss the impact on fees and timeline and, if needed, issue a revised proposal before continuing.
12. Use of completed work in our portfolio
We may wish to reference completed concepts in our own portfolio and marketing. We will respect any confidentiality you request, and where you prefer, project examples can be presented without identifying you. If you would rather your project not be referenced at all, simply let us know.
13. Changes to this policy
We may update this Project and Custom Design Policy from time to time. The current version is always published on this page with its revision date and applies to engagements entered into after it is posted.
14. Contact
For any question about how a custom project works, you can reach the studio using the details below.