Our process

At Rain and Hay, we believe that every successful project begins with understanding. Our approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and tailored to each client. From the first conversation to the final installation, we guide you through a clear and structured process that ensures your vision is realised beautifully and functionally

  • We always start with an initial consultation, usually paired with or followed by a site visit wherever possible. This is our opportunity to get to know you and fully understand your brief, aspirations, and requirements. Once we’ve gathered all the details, we carefully analyse the scope of the project to prepare the right fee proposal. When appointed, we will arrange a further meeting to go through the project in more detail and carry out any necessary site surveys, ensuring we have a solid foundation for the design process ahead

  • The concept design stage focuses on shaping the overall look, feel, and general ergonomics of the space. Here, we explore spatial layouts, initial room arrangements, and the atmosphere you want to create. This phase establishes the design direction through mood board imagery, palettes, and early layout studies, ensuring the space feels balanced and functional.

    Our priority at this stage is getting the space right: how it works, how it flows, and how it should ultimately feel. Once the concept is defined, we outline the broad scope of the project and develop an initial budget framework, giving you clarity and confidence before progressing to the more detailed stages of the design process.

  • Once the design and budget have been approved, we oversee the full procurement process. This involves sourcing and securing all materials, furnishings, and custom elements, working exclusively with trusted suppliers and skilled craftspeople to ensure every item meets the agreed design intent and quality standards. By carefully coordinating procurement in advance, we ensure that all components are ready for installation, minimising delays and supporting a seamless delivery of the project.

  • Throughout the construction and installation phase, we remain closely involved on site to ensure the design is executed with accuracy and care. As trades progress with their work and bespoke furnishings, fixtures, and equipment are prepared for installation, we coordinate with contractors and collaborate with consultants to confirm that every element aligns with the approved design.

    We conduct regular site visits, oversee key stages of installation, and provide clear guidance for trades. By staying present and hands-on throughout this phase, we help maintain quality, resolve issues quickly, and ensure the final outcome reflects the design vision in every detail.

Alongside our core design process, we also offer a range of complementary services to complete the vision for your space. From bespoke joinery and furniture design to curated materials, lighting, and art, we consider every detail to create interiors that are cohesive, functional, and uniquely personal

Additional Services

  • Spatial planning is one of the most crucial stages of the design process. It forms the foundation for every decision that follows. Our approach focuses on understanding how a space will be used, how natural light moves through it, and how the scale and proportions of each room relate to the wider home. By carefully considering these elements, we create layouts that feel balanced, purposeful, and intuitive. This stage allows us to ensure that every space not only functions beautifully but also reflects the way our clients truly wish to live

  • Bespoke joinery is integral to many of our projects, allowing us to create spaces that are tailored, functional and beautifully crafted. We work exclusively with our trusted joiners, collaborating closely to ensure every detail aligns with our vision. With comprehensive technical drawings, we communicate exactly how each piece should be constructed, from proportions and materials to the smallest design elements. Samples of stains and finishes are produced to guarantee harmony with the wider scheme. Over the years, this collaborative process has resulted in a wide range of bespoke pieces. From vanity units and cinema rooms to fully customised kitchens, each one designed to elevate the space and meet the needs of our clients

  • Procurement is where the design begins to take physical shape. We manage this stage with care and precision, sourcing all agreed furniture, fixtures, fittings and materials on behalf of our clients. Working closely with our trusted suppliers, we ensure every item aligns with the design, budget and lead times. From placing orders and coordinating deliveries to checking quality and resolving any issues that may arise, we oversee the entire process to keep everything running smoothly. This allows our clients to enjoy a seamless experience while we ensure every element arrives as intended and ready for installation.

  • FF&E is a vital part of shaping the character and comfort of a space. We carefully curate every piece, from furniture and lighting to soft furnishings and accessories, ensuring each element works harmoniously within the overall scheme. Our approach balances aesthetics, functionality and longevity, selecting items that elevate the design while supporting the way the space will be used. Through thoughtful sourcing, detailed specifications and close coordination with suppliers, we create a cohesive, refined and fully resolved interior

  • Soft furnishings and styling play a large role in bringing warmth, texture and character to a space. We offer a full service that includes the design and specification of curtains, blinds, upholstery and all fabric-based elements, ensuring each piece complements the wider scheme. Alongside this, we provide comprehensive styling, layering accessories, artwork and finishing touches to create a cohesive and beautifully balanced interior. These final details help transform a space from simply designed to truly lived in, capturing both comfort and personality