Launching your own interior design company is a dream for many who have that creative passion and desire to work with others to make their living or working spaces look amazing. Countless people fantasy about making money from their love for décor and design, but don’t know where to start. Learning how to start an interior design business does not just involve a good eye for style and design and networking, planning, strategy and business skills.
Interior design is so much more than picking paint colors and décor. It’s about designing functional spaces, understanding the layout of the space, choosing materials and working well with contractors to come up with something that fits your client’s needs and budget. As people’s lives change, they are increasingly turning to a professional to help design their home or office. As the demand grows, it offers an incredible opportunity for aspiring creatives to learn how to start an interior design business and forge a sustainable career.
Build Your Skills and Knowledge
Strengthening Design Foundation for Business
• Graduate with a degree or diploma in interior design.
• Enroll in online courses focusing on space planning, lighting or color theory.
• Master design software, including AutoCAD, SketchUp and Adobe Illustrator.
• Observe the latest trends through magazines, shows and social media.
Discover Your Style & Who You Want to Attract
Business Identity and Design Style
• Establish individual space preferences: luxury residences, contemporary offices, coffee shops, boutique retail.
• (Fit design to target audience: minimalist, modern for young professionals, classic, elegant for wealthy residential clients.
Create a Professional Portfolio
Starting an Interior Design Portfolio
• Portfolio: Critical to attract new clients.
• Ideas: Design concept boards, room redesigns, 3D renderings, digital mock-ups and documenting a transformation.
• Portfolio should demonstrate different styles, considerate layouts and innovative use of color and materials.
•Portfolio needs to communicate the design story to clients.
Register Your Business and Take Care of the Legal Stuff
Professional Business Operation
• Legal registration required.
• Select the type of business organization: sole proprietorship, partnership, or private company.
• Demand for business tax registration.
• Dedicated business bank account.
• Basic contracts for client and supplier work.
Curate Relationships with Vendors and builders
It takes more than one to design the inside. You must work with:
- Carpenters
- Painters
- Electricians
- Furniture suppliers
- Fabric and décor vendors
Leverage social media & Marketing to Bring in Clients
Advertising is a key component when trying to figure out the Interior Design Business start-up! Social media is your most telling shop window in an increasingly digital world.
Best Platforms for Designers:
- TikTok
Focus on Client Satisfaction and The Reputation
Interior design is deeply personal. How well you communicate and perceive the need and supply above that level determines your success.
Tips for Excellent Client Service:
- Listen carefully during consultations.
- While guiding, suggest options while considering client preferences.
- Give clear expectations for timing and assess progress.
- When budgeting and purchasing, be as transparent as possible.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in becoming an interior designer, you may need to start your own interior design business at some point. It’s possible to create a successful brand with hard work and vision. Building a successful business takes time and commitment, but as your portfolio grows, your book of business is its own reward.