How to Start a Interior Design Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
How to Start Your Own Interior Design Business: My Top Tips
I get asked all the time — how can I start my own interior design business? Well, as someone who took the leap and launched my own firm a few years back, let me share some hard-won advice.
Starting any kind of business is tough. But if you have the passion and persistence, you can totally do it! Here’s how I got my interior design business up and running. Maybe some of these steps will work for you too.
Select a Business Structure
First things first — you’ll need to pick a business structure. The choices can be a little confusing at first. I went with a Limited Liability Company (LLC) which meant I got protection from personal liability if anything went wrong. An LLC also made taxes easier for a small business like mine. But do your research to see whether a sole proprietorship, partnership, or S-Corp is a better fit for you.
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Make a Game Plan
Now it’s time for the fun part — putting together your business plan! Map out what kinds of design services you want to offer, who your ideal clients are, how you’ll market yourself both online and locally, what your costs will be, and how you’ll set your rates. Having this concrete plan is super helpful when explaining your business goals to potential partners, investors, or lenders down the road.
Save Up Funding
Okay, you knew this part was coming — every new business needs some start-up funding. Build up your personal savings so you can cover initial expenses like office equipment, branding, a website, etc. If possible, avoid business loans which can get you into debt fast. Maybe offer referral bonuses to clients who recommend new business to help with cash flow. Get creative!
Get Licensed
Here’s the not-so-fun part about starting an interior design business — licensing requirements. Make sure you complete an accredited design program and pass the NCIDQ exam. Then register with your state to get a valid license number. It’s a pain, but totally necessary! No shortcuts here.
Brand Yourself
Now for the fun branding stuff! Come up with a unique yet professional business name and logo. Choose some signature colors and fonts that reflect your personal aesthetic. This branding will be so important when you create your website, social media accounts, business cards, client presentations, and everything else.
Set Up Your Studio
You’ll need a space to meet clients and do your design magic! When first launching your business, working from home just makes sense financially. Spruce up a spare room or basement space. Make it feel polished, stylish, and ready for client meetings. If you want to upgrade to a shared office space later on, you can.
Get Online
Your website and social media presence will be crucial for finding new clients. Invest time upfront in building a portfolio website, creating profiles across all the major platforms, and developing shareable content that shows off your design style. Update these sites consistently to keep your business top of mind!
Price Those Projects
Figuring out what to charge clients can be so tricky when you’re new. Track your time at first to come up with hourly rates. Charge flat project fees whenever possible so you know your profits upfront. Ask fellow designers what pricing is typical in your area and don’t under-value your skills!
Spread the Word
Even with a killer online presence, you still need to network locally to get your interior design business out there. Introduce yourself to other home professionals who could refer clients, go to local events, offer your card freely, sponsor home tours or charity events, and just tell everyone you meet about your new venture!
Get Organized
Running a business involves keeping a lot of plates spinning. Use project management tools to stay on top of timelines. Keep meticulous financial records. Organize contacts, emails, proposals, and other documents so nothing falls through the cracks. Schedule time for admin work. Staying organized will make operating your growing design business so much smoother.
Trust me, launching an interior design firm takes hustle. But if you tackle these steps one by one, you’ll gain momentum. Stay focused on delighting each and every client, and your business can thrive! Let me know if you have any other questions — happy to help however I can. Best of luck with your new venture!
Need a Interior Design Business Plan?
Create a custom business plan with financial projections and market research in minutes with ProAI’s business plan generator.
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering starting your own interior design business, chances are you still have some questions about the process. Here are answers to some of the most common FAQs:
What is the first step to take when starting an interior design business?
The very first thing you’ll want to do is choose a business structure — will you be a sole proprietor, form an LLC, or set up a partnership or corporation? This decision should be based on factors like your state’s regulations, your personal liability, tax implications, and the future size you envision for your business.
How much does it cost to start an interior design business?
Startup costs vary widely, but plan to have at least $10,000 to $15,000 on hand. Initial expenses will include licensing and certifications, a computer and design software, office furniture and supplies, branding, website development, and more. Ongoing monthly costs for rent, insurance, marketing, etc. will need to be budgeted for as well.
What education and certifications do I need?
While requirements differ slightly state-to-state, most interior designers need a degree from an accredited program, 2–3 years of apprenticeship experience, and a passing score on the NCIDQ exam to earn professional certification. Licensing is also mandatory. Continuing education will be needed to maintain your credentials.
How do I find clients as a new designer?
Be proactive with your marketing! Cultivate referral relationships with local professionals, get active in your community, leverage social media and digital ads, host open houses or events to showcase your work, offer discounted services to first-time clients, and don’t be shy about asking satisfied customers to spread the word about your business.
Should I work from home or lease office space?
When just starting out, working from a well-appointed home studio is recommended to keep overhead costs low. As your client base grows, consider moving into a shared creative workspace or small leased retail space to give your business a more established feel.
What type of insurance should I get?
General liability insurance is essential to protect yourself from any property damage, bodily injury, or design flaws. Professional liability insurance provides coverage in case of design errors and omissions. Business owner’s insurance bundles policies entrepreneurs need. Work with an insurance broker to get properly insured.
