As an interior designer, there’s a lot more to your work than just creating beautiful spaces. Between managing logistics, communicating with clients, and keeping track of projects, the right tools can make a huge difference. These 8 mobile apps will help streamline your workflow, stay organized, and improve efficiency—whether you're on-site, in the office, or on the go.
Read MoreWhen you first entered the world of interior design, what did you envision your day-to-day life looking like? Maybe you pictured client meetings, site visits, and endless design consultations. Fast forward to now—does your reality match that dream, or are you feeling bogged down by the never-ending demands of the interior design business?
The good news is, you don’t have to choose between your passion for design and a more balanced lifestyle. With the growing popularity of virtual communication, new technologies, and the desire for more flexibility, many interior designers are shifting to a virtual-only model to meet both their clients' needs and their own.
Instead of handling sourcing, project management, or in-person meetings, think about offering services like virtual design consultations, shoppable design boards, or personalized style guides. These types of services are not only in high demand but can help you boost your efficiency, cut overhead costs, and even expand your client base far beyond your local market.
Read MoreWhat if your design business could fuel your wanderlust instead of keeping you tethered to your desk? Picture sketching layouts in a Parisian café or finding inspiration for a project while wandering through the markets of Marrakesh. Of course, many of us have commitments—family, routines, the daily grind—that keep us tied down. But here’s the thing: in life, either you travel, or you don’t. And the same principles that help you carve out time for personal adventures apply to your business. We’re here to help you chart a course toward a design business that supports your love for exploration without missing a beat on client satisfaction.
Read MoreMaybe social media has been sitting on your to-do list, perpetually bumped to the bottom in favor of more pressing design projects. Whether it’s because you feel like you’re “not creative enough” (spoiler: you are), get stuck in decision fatigue, or simply don’t have the bandwidth to think about hashtags and captions, it’s understandable. Social media management is its own beast, requiring a distinct skill set and sensibility.
But let’s face it—love it or loathe it, social media is one of the most powerful tools for getting your name out there. You’ve wisely decided to call in reinforcements and delegate this task to a Virtual Design Assistant (VDA). Great move!
Read MoreIf you’re reading this, chances are you’ve spotted some pretty telling signs that analysis paralysis might be hijacking your workflow. What exactly is analysis paralysis? It’s when you overthink every decision to the point where you’re stuck in neutral, unable to move forward. Think of it as your brain buffering indefinitely while your project deadlines loom.
Read MoreAs designers, you have free rein to explore every hue in the spectrum, anytime. But there’s an undeniable thrill when Pantone crowns its Color of the Year — and leaning into that shade becomes a collective creative journey. For 2025, the honor goes to Mocha Mousse. A deliciously versatile hue that’s effortlessly neutral, yet surprisingly bold.
To celebrate, we’ve rounded up ten inspired picks, embracing this year’s color. Let’s go!
Read MoreA new year doesn’t mean you need a whole new you—but it’s the perfect occasion to fine-tune your design life. Let’s trade in overworked schedules, messy workflows, and blurred boundaries for more creativity, clarity, and also fun. With 2025 on the horizon, it’s time to design a year you’ll love working in.
Read MoreLet's start by acknowledging that you probably didn’t set out to be a social media influencer–you’re an interior designer! It’s perfectly normal (and incredibly common) to feel a bit out of sync with today’s ever-changing social media standards. Luckily, managing your Instagram doesn’t have to become a full-time job; a social media manager can take the wheel if needed. But a little self-reflection never hurts, and you can see how your profile stacks up. If any of these cheeky descriptions hit home, read on for our pro tips to boost your Insta game!
Read MoreIf you struggle with content ideas while waiting on those final pro shots from a completed project, you’re not alone! Reveal photos are incredibly satisfying, but there’s so much you can share along the way to bring your followers (and future clients!) into the experience without loads of extra work. People love the journey just as much as the finished product. So, add some of these ideas to your content calendar, grab a few in-the-moment snaps, and let everyone in on the behind-the-scenes moments that make each project unique!
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There’s decorating, and then there’s designing a space that makes people stop in their tracks. It’s the little things—a perfectly imperfect vase, a just-right custom table, or a stunning piece of local art—that make a home stand out and leave people asking, “Where did you find that?” Spoiler alert: these treasures usually come from small businesses.
This Small Business Saturday (every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving), we’re celebrating the magic of shopping small and all the ways it can elevate your design work.
Nothing wrong with sourcing from your big box favorites. But when it comes to creating a home that feels special, small businesses just do it better. Here’s why:
1. One-of-a-Kind Finds: Small businesses are where you discover those conversation starter pieces. Whether it’s a sculptural handwoven basket or a set of artisan-crafted wall hooks, these items tell a story and add depth to your designs.
2. Quality You Can Feel: When something’s made by a small team or an individual, there’s usually a lot more love (and fewer shortcuts) in the process. That means better craftsmanship and materials, so it’s an investment that will last.
3. People Who Actually Listen: Ever try to get a mass retailer to tweak a piece for your client? Good luck. Small businesses often thrive on flexibility, so if you need a slightly longer bench or a fabric change, they’re much more likely to work with you—and get it right.
4. Connections That Pay Off: Building relationships with small vendors can open the door to collaborations, like a custom light fixture or exclusive access to their newest designs. Plus, supporting them helps keep their businesses thriving, which means more cool finds in the future.
Looking to shop small but not sure where to start? Here are some tried-and-true ways to uncover the best vendors:
Hit Up Local Markets: Makers and artisans often showcase their work at weekend markets and fairs. It’s a great way to meet them, see their work up close, and make connections.
Get Social (Media): Instagram is a treasure trove of small business inspiration. Follow hashtags like #shopsmall or #handmade, and don’t forget to check local geotags.
Ask Around: Fellow designers, friends, and even clients can be great sources for small business recommendations. A quick chat might lead you to your next favorite vendor.
Visit Boutiques: Local shops often stock pieces from smaller brands and artisans. Even if you’re not buying today, you’ll get a feel for what’s out there.
Not every part of a home needs to come from a boutique, but there are certain categories where small businesses really shine:
Furniture: A custom dining table, a hand-carved coffee table, or a made-to-order bookshelf can become the centerpiece of a room.
Textiles: Look for handwoven rugs, throws, or pillows—bonus points if they come with a story about the maker or their process.
Art: Whether it’s a bold statement piece or a curated gallery wall, local artists add character and connection to a space.
Lighting: Handmade pendants, sconces, or chandeliers can make a room feel instantly elevated.
Decorative Accessories: Think ceramics, glassware, or unique objects that bring personality to the finishing touches.
Every dollar spent at a small business also supports someone’s craft, keeps local traditions alive, and helps a community thrive. As a designer, your choices ripple outward, showing clients what it means to invest in quality, creativity, and connection. And in return, you get to create homes that feel layered, meaningful, and completely unique. This Small Business Saturday, take a moment to explore the local gems in your community. You might just find the perfect piece to make your next project unforgettable.
xx, Danae
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