AI-generated illustrative design concept; not a completed CBD Projects project, approved drawing or technical compliance detail.
A tray of unlabeled samples is not an approval system. Colour may be accepted while slip resistance, cleaning, fire performance, edge detail or lead time remains unresolved. A controlled register connects design intent, technical review, procurement and the installed benchmark.
Assign every finish a code and location, collect required technical information, record review status and conditions, retain an accepted benchmark and link the decision to procurement dates.
Code samples by use and location
Use the finish schedule and drawings to assign stable codes. Record manufacturer, product, colour, size, finish and intended rooms. Similar-looking products should not share an ambiguous description.
Photographs support communication but do not replace physical or documented review where required.
Separate visual and technical review
Identify who reviews aesthetics, technical suitability, maintenance, compliance and commercial impact. A client’s colour preference does not automatically accept product performance or installation method.
Collect data required by the responsible designers and applicable project requirements without making generic compliance claims.
Set decision dates from procurement
Work backwards from required-on-site dates through ordering, production, shipping, mock-ups and resubmission. Prioritise long-lead and high-impact finishes rather than reviewing easy samples first.
Connect the dates to the submittal register.
Retain controlled benchmarks
Keep accepted samples protected, labelled and available to compare with deliveries and installed work. Record natural variation and approved range where relevant. Avoid using a faded or damaged sample as the only benchmark.
For assemblies and workmanship, use a defined mock-up approval process.
Manage substitutions openly
When availability changes, submit the proposed alternative with technical, visual, cost and programme consequences. Do not replace products based on a similar colour alone.
Update schedules, drawings and procurement records after the authorised decision so site teams use the same information.
Frequently asked questions
Is a signed sample enough to approve a finish?
Not necessarily. Record the product code, location, technical review, conditions and revision so the decision is traceable.
Should approved samples stay on site?
A protected benchmark should remain available to the agreed parties for delivery and workmanship comparison.
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