Interior design startup guide: Part 3
How to Start an Interior Design Business
There are no hard and fast rules when determining how to start your own interior design firm, however, there are invaluable learned experiences that can be heeded and that’s where Houzz Pro experts can help. From creating a business plan to hone your brand vision, services and pricing structure, to registering your new firm, setting up separate bank accounts and marketing to the right type of client, this pragmatic guide aims to answer a whole host of conundrums about how to start an interior design company, so you can hit the ground running.
Step 1: Set your business plan & vision
Being a great interior designer doesn’t make you a natural at running a successful business. That’s why it pays to set out a clear business plan and vision before diving straight in. Here, we focus on the fundamental aspects your business strategy should cover, from start-up costs to ongoing funding, pricing of services to finding the best location to launch your firm. Put this plan and vision in place from the outset and your early days will flow efficiently, freeing up your precious time and energy to concentrate on projects and attracting leads.
Dive into the articles below to inch closer to knowing how to open an interior design business.
How Much Does It Cost to Start an Interior Design Business?
How to Write a Business Plan for Interior Design
How to Get Funds for New Interior Design Business
How to Price Interior Design Services
How to Choose Location for Interior Design Business
One Simple Solution for Design Pros
Best Places for Interior Designers to Launch Their Business
Explore our interactive map to see Interior Designer supply and demand by U.S. state and city.
Choose your interior design business entity & name
Landing on the right name for your interior design firm that appeals to your target market is essential for the success of your business, as is selecting the correct legal structure to operate under, such as an LLC or sole proprietorship. Baffled by the legal aspects of how to start your own interior design firm? Don’t be. We’ve done the hard work for you by clearly defining the main types of legal entities that best suit your interior design business, as well as explaining why a clear, concise and memorable name for your firm is likely to see the leads rolling in.
Jump into any of the guides below to find answers to all of your business-launching related questions.
How to Name Your Interior Design Business (Video)
How to Register Your Interior Design Business
Should I Copyright My Interior Design Business Name?
Should I Trademark My Interior Design Business Name?
Should My Interior Design Business Be an LLC or Sole Proprietorship?
Is It Better to Have An LLC or Corporation for An Interior Design Business?
Incorporating LLC Into Interior Design Business Branding
Should I Start an LLC for my Interior Design Business?
INTERVIEW WITH REAL DESIGN PROS
How to start your own interior design business
Houzz Pro interviewed real interior designers to help you learn how these pros built their business from the ground up. Watch and listen to fast track your journey to becoming a professional interior design business owner.
Step 3: Set up business bank accounts and start planning for funding or expenses
Creating a separate business bank account will not only help you to streamline your income and efficiently manage your tax payments, it will also help you devise an effective and convenient payment strategy for your clients, so they have a transparent billing experience. Explore the articles below for more information on how to start a freelance interior design business that can both accept and send funds.
KEEP LEARNING
Step 4: Market & manage your new interior design business
Once your business strategy is in place, you’ve nailed down your name and brand ethos, and you’ve identified your target market, it’s time to start promoting your skills and services.
For expert tips on topics such as expanding your reach to targeted clients, improving your SEO and turning clicks into leads, don’t miss our Startup Guide: How to Grow Your Interior Design Business and prepare to elevate your firm to the next level.
One simple solution for contractors and design pros
UNLOCK HOUZZ PRO
Attract and win the right clients, run profitable projects and deliver a standout customer experience - all in one place
Get the industry-specific content you really want sent directly to your inbox—just sign up below!
By signing up, I agree to the Houzz Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and that Houzz may use my information to contact me about relevant content, products, and services.