The GDS Process: Built Around You - And What’s Best For You.

How do we keep your project on budget, on time, and most importantly of all on point? Through creativity and collaboration – from start to finish. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us.

8 Stages, One Integrated Loop

1. Framing: Pre-Kickoff Preparation

Foundation & Inputs

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Site walkthrough + scan
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Insights questionnaire
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Background collection
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Assemble project team
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2. Project Kickoff & Pre-Design

Alignment & Direction

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Meet the GDS team
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Set meetings & communication
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Clarify goals & vision
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Review codes & zoning
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Identify opportunities
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Collect inspiration
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3. Current State Review & Brand Positioning

Strategy & Differentiation

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Research + competitive analysis
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Identify challenges & opportunities
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Develop “How might we…?” questions

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Review company background
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Begin brand statements
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Market matrix + differentiation
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Define success metrics
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4. Creative Exploratory

Concept Development Across All Disciplines

Branding

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Voice, mission, vision, promise
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Naming, taglines, messaging
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Logo, identity systems, design deliverables

Architecture

Schematic layouts + diagrams
Concept exploration

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Space planning + refinement
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Interiors

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Likes/dislikes & functional needs
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Materials, FF&E, lighting
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Moodboards + art direction
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5. Design Development

Refinement & Integration

Detailed architectural design
3D visuals + material palettes
Lighting + FF&E selections

Finalize brand design deliverables & begin Guide outline

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Consultant coordination
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Draft DD documentation
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7. Construction Administration

Buildout Support & Quality Control

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Oversee construction progress
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RFI responses + site visits
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Approve submittals + samples
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Coordinate subcontractors
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Punch list at substantial completion
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Finalize brand guidelines
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6. Construction Documents

Technical Translation of Design

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Full CD drawing set
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Detailed specs + assemblies
Engineering coordination
Ensure design intent carries through

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Release brand design mechanical files
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8. Crossing the Finish Line

Completion & Celebration

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Final walkthrough
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Celebrate the partnership
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Capture professional photography
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Agility, Quality & Collaboration

To ensure every project runs smoothly, our team leverages a comprehensive set of tools throughout the design and execution process.

We rely on hand sketching and visual prototyping, often conducted in-person with clients to quickly capture ideas and foster collaboration. We also use mood boards and material samples – both digital and physical – to help convey the look and feel of a space early on. “Clay” and digital renderings bring concepts to life, while walkthroughs provide immersive previews of the design. Physical models and comparative design studies allow us to explore and refine options in real time.

We also prepare detailed FFE (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) packages, supported by precise technical documentation and submittals. Throughout the construction process, we review and coordinate shop drawings to ensure every element aligns with the design intent.

Driving Excellence Through Proven and Modern Design Tools

At GDS, we believe great design is powered by clarity, accuracy, and utilizing the right tools at the right moment. From the very first step, we use current technologies to lay a strong foundation for design communication.

Scanning

Our Lidar 3D scanner captures highly accurate 360° images and measurements, ensuring we start with the whole picture and understand the layers of the canvas with which we’ll work.

3D Modeling

We then move into realistic 3D modeling, rendering, and walkthrough environments. These tools help us visualize concepts in real time, communicate ideas clearly, and test design options before they’re built – saving both time and money (as it’s harder and usually more costly to make changes during construction).

Early-stage sketching

After existing conditions are accurately captured, we take a moment to step back. Our process includes early-stage sketching – putting pencil to paper – to explore ideas freely and without limits. With the project parameters in mind, this phase lets creativity flow quickly and openly, laying the groundwork for stronger design solutions.

Digital detailing

Once a clear direction is established, we transition back into our digital toolkit, focus on the details and get everything build-ready.

At every stage, we use the most current design tools – blending traditional design techniques with modern technology – to produce thoughtful, accurate, and fully realized solutions to your unique design challenges or problems. The result? Designs delivered with clarity and confidence.

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