From bare shell to move-in — what the timeline really looks like

Most people hope interiors will take a few weeks. A well-run 3 BHK apartment usually takes three to four months from the first meeting to move-in. Here is where the time goes.

Weeks 1–3: brief and concept

Measuring, listening, layout options and a material direction. The single biggest thing you can do to save time later is to make decisions here, while changing a line on paper costs nothing.

Weeks 4–6: detailed design

Every wall, cabinet, ceiling and switch point is drawn. This feels slow. It is where most delays are prevented.

Weeks 7–14: execution

• Civil and services (1–2 weeks): electrical, plumbing, any wall changes.
• False ceilings and flooring (1–2 weeks).
• Joinery (5–6 weeks): wardrobes, kitchen and storage, made in our workshop in parallel with site work.
• Painting and finishes (1–2 weeks).
• Installations (1 week): lights, hardware, appliances.

The final week: styling and handover

Curtains, rugs, furniture delivery, art, and a deep clean.

What causes delays

Late decisions on tiles and laminates, imported items with long lead times, festival seasons when workshops close, and changes after joinery is in production. Planning around Diwali and Sankranti alone can save two weeks.

Ask your designer for a written schedule at the start and a weekly update against it.