Interior Design as a Business

Are you passionate about creating exceptional living spaces? Or maybe you’re the go-to person when it comes to home décor trends, such as the enchanting mudcloth pillow or chic paint colors?

If you’re any of these two, maybe it’s time you started an interior design business.  And if you have doubts, you’ll be happy to know that setting up an interior design business isn’t difficult. Besides, there are numerous reasons why you should consider starting it now rather than later.

For starters, starting your interior design business allows you to work from the comfort of your sofa. You also don’t need to break the bank to get your business running, and we can assure you that you’ll get customers as many people want their homes to look good, but very few have the time or the talent to do something about it.

To get you started, we advise you on how to set up your business and how to ensure you’re successful while at it.

1.     Determine Your Niche

Interior design has different areas of specialization. For instance, some interior designers do home furnishing while others focus on remodeling or decorating. Other designers will only focus on kitchens while others can take on an entire home.

Discover the area you’re passionate about, as this will help you determine the services you’ll offer and your target audience.

You should also research the products or services in high demand in your niche and how you can meet your clients’ expectations.

2.     Give Your Business a Unique Name

Your next step is to come up with a name for your business. Ensure the name is unique, easy to remember, and it’s a reflection of the services you offer.

It would be best if you also considered having a simple logo that matches your style. Ensure the logo stands out, as many clients will associate your business with this logo.

If your state requires that you register your business, register it under the new name and obtain any other required business permits and licenses.

3.     Showcase Your Work

Many clients will not hire you if you don’t have samples of your work. Interior design is a visual service, and customers are impressed if you have something to showcase your talent and abilities.

Have photos and videos of your past work. You can display these on your website and social media pages.  If you haven’t gotten a client yet, you can design your home and take photos. You can also offer your services for free and take pictures and videos of your work. Consider hiring a professional photographer to get images that stand out.

4.     Determine Your Rates

Figure out how much you’ll charge for your services. Are you charging hourly rates, a flat rate, or retail pricing?

To help you come up with a price list, consider the cost of the materials you’ll be using and the hours of work you’ll put in for each job. Your rates also need to be fair to the clients even as you try to ensure you get some profit.

Further, decide the payment methods you’ll accept. While some customers will have no problem paying in cash, others may prefer using a credit card or e-payment methods such as PayPal.

5.     Market Your Services

You should let others know of your new venture. You can easily get noticed by marketing your business on social channels such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Post engaging and informative interior design content and also use quality images.

Other ways you can market your business include:

·         Offer your services for free or at a discount

·         Set up a website and provide your contact information

·         Start a blog

·         Distribute flyers to the locals

·         Consider using email marketing

·         Ask for referrals from family and friends

6.     Network

Build relationships with other interior designers, suppliers, and contractors. You should also have a good relationship with your customers. Attending trade shows and joining online interior designers groups can help you learn a lot from other successful interior designers. Don’t hesitate to share your contacts with your network, as some of them may refer you to people who need your services.

In closing, starting an interior design business doesn’t have to be complicated. Ensure you make a good impression on your customers, market your business, and network with other like-minded people for your business to grow.