Questions Every Designer Should Be Asking Their Clients (We Do.)
🎯 The 5 Questions We Ask Every Client (and You Should Too)
At Elevation Living Walls, design is never an afterthought. It’s the beginning. That’s why we start every project—whether it’s a commercial lobby, a private residence, or a hospitality concept—with a discovery process rooted in intention.
Our approach has not only helped us deliver remarkable results, but has also become a resource for architects and designers looking to deepen their own client conversations.
If you’re looking to create spaces that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant, these are the five essential questions we ask every client.
🌱 The Core 5 Questions
What is the purpose of this space, and how should it feel when someone walks in?
This uncovers the emotional blueprint. Do they want calm? Energy? Drama? Warmth?
What styles, moods, or projects are you drawn to?
We always ask for reference images, Pinterest boards, or past work they admire. Aesthetic clarity begins with visual language.
Are there any materials, plants, colors, or elements you love—or want to avoid?
Knowing what to sidestep can be as helpful as knowing what to spotlight.
What is your timeline, budget, and scope of involvement?
Good design thrives within known constraints. This helps us (and you) deliver exactly what’s promised.
What worries you most about this project—or about working with a new vendor?
This builds trust immediately. It tells the client you’re listening and proactive about solving problems before they arise.
🌿 Bonus 5 Questions (For a Deeper Dive)
If time allows—or if the project is larger in scale—we also explore:
Is there a story behind this project or property that we should honor or reference?
Design grounded in narrative always resonates more deeply.
How will this space evolve over time?
Understanding long-term use helps us future-proof the design and select resilient materials and plantings.
Who are the primary users of this space?
Knowing the demographic or lifestyle of the end users shapes scale, texture, and accessibility.
Where do you stand on maintenance?
This is key when recommending plant types or automated irrigation systems.
What would make this a “wow” moment for you?
Everyone has a hidden dream—something emotional, something dramatic. We make it our mission to uncover it.
🤝 A Partner in the Process
We’ve found that when you ask the right questions, the answers naturally lead to better, more intentional design. Whether you use these prompts in your own practice or let us lead the discovery, Elevation is here to elevate the process—not just the wall.
Let’s create something extraordinary together.
