the studio
Explore our range of services designed to help you move forward with confidence, wherever you're headed next.
the studio
Abitalia has been designing beautiful homes since 2007. Our studio occupies a lovingly restored Victorian warehouse in Poole, reflecting our philosophy and approach to projects. We are known for our passion, precision, and attention to detail, qualities evident throughout our studio and work.
Our projects are as diverse as our clients, and our design style is defined by thoughtful details. We design and install as if each project were our own, a commitment that has fostered long-term client relationships and a strong reputation for excellence.
Through our partnership with PietraCasa, we integrate bespoke porcelain surfaces and expertly fabricated elements into our projects, combining Abitalia’s creative vision with PietraCasa’s technical expertise to deliver luxury, cohesive, and enduring interiors.
Frequently asked questions
Our projects vary from ‘supply only’ to complete project design and management. We have listed some of the more frequently asked questions
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Our typical design fees are 10% of the schedule value and increase to 15% when providing project management.
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No. We understand that the cost of something is a simple comparison to make when choosing a product or service. We also understand good design may look expensive.
We will always maintain the best cost vs quality. By isolating the ‘good’ level (supply only) from ‘better’, clients can easily compare our products with other suppliers. But where we excel is the detail and design. This has a value. If cost is the sole factor in your decision making process, we may not be the studio for you.
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With the level of support we provide our clients, we tend to work within Dorset and Hampshire. Occasionally a special project or an existing client, has led us to work further afield, even internationally.
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We work with two Italian brands with shared and unique characteristics. Both are made in Italy with a strong sense of design. Arredo3 is our entry product which is very competitive against UK high street brands, whereas Zampieri kitchens are a more tailored product. An entry kitchen would be circa £30,000, but in general our kitchen project value is closer to £75,000+
The Process
For the success of your project, we have developed a process thAT IS built on a solid foundation of experience and knowledge, SUPPORTED BY CLOUD-BASED SOFTWARE
The earlier in the design process we can be involved, the greater impact to the overall quality and value of your project. We have almost 20 years of design and construction experience and have an acute awareness of leading brands within the design industry.
We appreciate the complexities of construction and decision making; therefore, our objective is to support you through the process by means of a transparent, honest, and professional partnership. We are passionate about what we do and strive to deliver a project unique to you.
Stage 1: Project Discussion
We begin by listening to and understanding your project requirements and desired outcomes, ensuring that our values and approach align with your vision. At this stage, we will:
Identify the current stage of the project and discuss a realistic timescale.
Review budgets and assess what is feasible in terms of specifications — while some products are available within weeks, more bespoke elements may take several months.
Introduce the three levels of involvement we offer.
Conduct a site visit to carry out a survey or review architects’ drawings to enable the next steps.
Stage 2: Initial Concept Design
At this stage, we bring your project to life. While minor refinements may be made based on your feedback, the overall design reflects the original brief. We will:
Present the design using a 3D SketchUp model.
Provide an initial estimate of costs.
Prepare a project pinboard that captures the concept.
In Stage 3, this pinboard is further developed to include basic layouts and a detailed product schedule, considering finishes and other design details in more depth.
This service is provided free of charge, and all designs at this stage remain in-house.
Stage 3: Define the Project
Once the design is refined, we produce a proposal, itemised schedule, and cost estimate. The proposal outlines three levels of involvement:
Good
Invoice for 10% of schedule value to release the itemised schedule and layout drawings.
Pinboard updated.
Better
Builds on Good with a more detailed design process.
Technical plans, elevations, and cross-sections prepared.
3D model enhanced with materials and photorealistic renders supplied.
Access to the Client Dashboard for detailed schedules, drawings, quotes, invoices, and acceptances.
Best
Includes all Better stage elements.
Project Manager reviews technical drawings and undertakes a tendering process.
Final installation costs determined based on subcontractors and materials.
Project management and installation invoices raised monthly per the proposal.
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An initial discussion to understand the project and design brief. We will prepare a basic 3D design and layout, product schedule on a supply only basis. Our design fee is covered by the supply of goods.
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We develop the 3D model in detail, provide photorealistic renders, a detailed project schedule, technical plans, elevations and cross sections for a third party contractor to install. Limited Project Manager on-site support to assist your contractor. Design fees apply
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The whole process is delivered by our talented team of professionals. We provide dedicated project management and install your interior project with our in-house team of specialists. Every detail is carefully considered to realise your project. Design and project management fees apply
Stage 4: Ordering
We produce construction-ready drawings, typically within 2–4 weeks, depending on complexity. Drawings are checked internally and available on your Client Dashboard for review.
Final site measurements are taken, and revised drawings are issued as part of the contract; any subsequent variations may incur costs.
An invoice for 40% of schedule value is issued. Once payment is received, orders are placed with suppliers and the procurement section of the Client Dashboard updated. Estimated supply and installation dates are provided following payment.
Stage 5: Delivery and Installation
While your goods are in production, our Client Support Team keeps you informed. Notifications are sent one week before shipment from Europe and on arrival at our warehouse. An invoice for the balance of goods is issued 14 days before delivery.
Our Project Manager coordinates with you and contractors to ensure quality and accuracy on site.
Site requirements for installation:
Clear and flat external access and unobstructed internal working areas.
Finished flooring in place and protected; all but final decoration completed.
Ceiling lighting operational.
Goods will not be installed unless these conditions are met. Where Abitalia provides project management, our team ensures high standards of site and workmanship before and during installation.
Stage 6: Sign-Off and Aftercare
The project concludes on time and on budget, with open and honest communication throughout. Each project is treated as our own, ensuring client satisfaction.
As part of aftercare, our team will follow up within a week of delivery and again three months after handover to ensure everything meets your expectations. We go beyond manufacturer guarantees, giving you peace of mind that we fully stand behind every project.
Our Sister Company
Around the time Abitalia opened its Dorset office, the tile industry saw three major technical advancements: digital printing, large-format, and thinner slab production. Porcelain has always been a feature in our projects, but these innovations have expanded the possibilities for design.
PietraCasa is part of a select group of companies that design, supply, and install large-format porcelain for bespoke furniture and projects, bringing technical expertise and creative precision to every installation.
Discover our projects and see our expertise in action.
Let’s Work TogetherIf you're interested in working with us, complete the form with a few details about your project. We'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.