interior decoration business plan pdf

Tips for a Simple Interior Design Business Plan to get you Started

So you’ve decided you’re going to start your own interior design business. Congratulations! But have you thought about putting together a business plan for your new venture? 

Writing down what you’re trying to achieve, the services you’ll offer, and other important factors will help you streamline your business strategy, keep you focused on your goals, and (perhaps most importantly) make sure your idea makes sense.

It’s a good idea to create a business plan before investing money in your new business; that way, you’ll have a better understanding of how it’ll make money and whether it’s likely to be profitable.

Throughout this guide, I’m going to explain the importance of having a business plan for your interior design business and take you through what information to include.

Here’s to a well-planned and successful interior design business!

What's in the article

Why do I Need an Interior Design Business Plan?

There are various benefits of putting together an interior design business plan before going ahead with your new venture, but it really boils down to two factors:

• Helping you understand your business
• Helping you explain your business to others

Helping you Understand your Business

Before you do anything, you need to get your thoughts in order to ensure you have a viable business idea. Writing things down usually helps them make sense, and it’s no different with a business plan.

Your interior design business plan will help you:

• Summarise your business idea:  What you’re trying to achieve, what services you’ll offer, how you’ll operate etc.
• Identify goals and potential problems: Set out goals and how you’ll achieve them, and identify any risks and how to overcome them.
• Plan your business operations: From sales and marketing to onboarding staff.
• Get your finances in order: Estimate your revenue, business expenses, and any financing you’ll require to get your business off the ground.
• Pinpoint your priorities and identify any gaps in the business 

Helping you Explain your Business to Other People

A business plan can also help you convince other people to back your business. This includes:

• Financial assistance: If you’re planning on getting financial backing from investors or securing a bank loan for your interior design business, you’ll need to present a well-formed business plan.
• Employees and suppliers: Potential employees and suppliers are unlikely to work with a business if they don’t know what it does. A business plan will help you explain this so you can onboard staff and suppliers before getting started.
• Explaining your business: Writing down a business summary will help you better explain your business to other people, so next time you’re asked what your business does (or will do), you won’t fumble over your words.

Interior Design Business Plan Top Tips

Before writing your business plan, keep the following points in mind:

Write it for an Outsider

Write your business plan as if the person who’s reading it knows nothing about you, your business or the interior design industry. This will likely be the case when it comes to getting investment.

Keep it Concise

Don’t go into too much unnecessary detail. Keep it to the point and focus on the sections listed below. After all, you want people to read it!

Be Realistic

Avoid skimming over potential risks and problems, and be honest and realistic about finances. Being over-optimistic might get you the loan you’re after, but it could lead to problems in the future.

Know your Market

Make sure to include market research, details on competitors, where your business fits into the interior design market and what makes it different to what’s already out there.

What to Include in your Interior Design Business Plan

When it comes to writing your business plan, try to use the following structure: 

Executive summary

Elevator pitch

About the business owner

Products and services

Business structure

The market: Customers, competitors and market overview

Section 7: 

Sales and marketing strategy

Business operations

• Business expenses

Section 10: 

Financial forecasts 

Let’s go into a bit more detail on each section:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is essentially a summary of your interior design business plan, so it’s best to write this section last. It should include key points, so if someone were to only read this section, they’d still have an understanding of your business and what you’re trying to achieve.

Your executive summary should include:

• Business name and type of business (e.g. sole trader or LTD company)
• A summary of the services you’ll offer and/or products you intend to sell
• Mission statement: What is the aim of your business? (e.g. become the number one interior design service in your area)
• Goals and objectives: It’s good to include short, mid, and long-term goals. (e.g. generate [amount] of profit in the first year)
• Financial summary: Financial goals and any secured or required funding 
• Keys to success: How will you achieve your objectives? (e.g. provide high-quality services and first-class communication)

2. Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a short summary of your business. It’s what you’ll tell people when they ask what your business does. Writing down an elevator pitch will help ensure you have a clear idea of your business direction and enable you to give a concise, well-formed description when you explain your business to others.

It should include:

• What your business does
• Who your target audience is
• Your unique selling point (USP): What sets you apart from competitors?

3. About the Business Owner

Add a bit about yourself, why you want to start an interior design business, and any experience you have in the industry. Things to cover include:

• Who are you? 
• Why do you want to start this business?
• What experience do you have?
• Relevant qualifications and training
• Relevant hobbies and interests

4. Services you’ll Offer

How is your business going to make its money? Explain the different interior design services your business will offer and whether you’ll also sell any physical products. 

• A list of services you’ll offer as an interior designer
• Any products you’ll sell
• Plans for future products and services

5. Business Structure

Will you work as a sole trader and hire contractors to help, or will you hire employees? Do you have a network of suppliers in place to help you carry out your projects? Include information on your employees, contractors, suppliers, and their roles in this section:

• Whether you’ll hire full-time employees or outsource to contractors
• Job roles and responsibilities
• List of suppliers needed to help fulfil projects

6. Market Summary

The market summary section of your business plan should include information about the current market and market trends, your target audience, and competitors. This section will not only help outsiders understand your target market, but it’ll also help you understand how best to advertise your products and services.

Your market summary can be split into a few sections:

Target customers

• Target customer profile: Who are your target customers?
• Who are you selling to? (e.g. businesses or individuals, residential or commercial)
• Why do they/will they buy from you?
• Any already confirmed orders 

Competitors

• Who are your competitors?
• What’s your USP? What makes your business different? 
• SWOT analysis: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats 

Market research

• Size of market
• Market trends
• Field research (Ask prospective customers what they think about your business idea)

7. Sales and Marketing Strategy

How will you reach your target customers, and what channels will you sell your products through? What price point will you sell your services at? The sales and marketing strategy section should cover:

• Sources of income: How will you sell your products and services? (E.g. online services, products, commercial and residential projects)
• Marketing channels: How will you advertise your products and services?

 (E.g. word of mouth, social media, direct mail, trade shows)

• Pricing strategy: What price point and why?
• Are you likely to get repeat customers or retainer clients?

8. Business Operations

This section covers the day-to-day running of your business, what’s involved in each interior design project or the production of any products you sell, where your business will operate, what equipment and insurance you’ll need, etc.

• Production/projects: How long will it take, how much will it cost you?
• Payment: How will customers pay? (e.g. upfront, deposit, payment plan)
• List of suppliers: Who are your suppliers?
• Business premises: Where will your business operate from?
• Equipment needed: What equipment do you need for your business to operate?
• Licenses and insurance: What licenses and insurance do you need for your business to operate?

There are various expenses involved in running a business, so you’ll need to list these. Your expenses will include things like:

• Business premises
• Employee/contractor wages
• Merchandise production
• Loan repayments
•  Financial Forecasts 

Financial forecasts can be tricky if you’re just starting out, but try to put together a realistic calculation for the next three to five years. Essentially, you need to prove that your business will survive and become profitable. If you’re a small business or startup, speaking to an adviser at your bank may help with forecasting.

Your financial forecasts should include:

• Historical sales figures from the last three to five years (if applicable)
• Sales forecast: How much money you expect the business to take
• Profit forecast:  How much profit you expect the business to make
• Monthly cash flow and business bank balance
• Balance sheet: Your business’ assets, liabilities and stockholders’ equity (smaller businesses may not require this

As you can see, a lot goes into starting your own interior design business. And while creating a business plan might seem like a long process, it’ll definitely help you in the long run. 

About The Author

Freddie Chatt

Related posts, interior design client welcome packet: what is it, and why do you need one, pr for interior designers: how to get coverage for your interior design business, why (and how) you need to start building an email list, interior design portfolio: how to showcase your skills (including 5 examples).

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How to Write a Business Plan for Interior Design

Writing a business plan is the first step in starting your own interior design firm. Find everything you need to start writing from the experts at Houzz Pro.

As an interior designer, you know that every successful project needs a great plan. The same goes for your interior design business. Even if you’re just starting out with your design business, or if you’re revamping your current business model, knowing how to write an interior design business plan will guide you on your path to success and help move your business forward.

If you’ve never written a business plan before or need help fine tuning your current plan, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to begin and what to include. Our guide will give you a comprehensive overview of how to write a business plan for interior design, including what an interior design business plan entails, why you need a great plan, which sections and information to incorporate, and last but not least, step-by-step details on how to write your business plan. Read on or click a link below to take the next step—and your business to the next level:

• What is a business plan?
• Why are business plans important?
• Components of a business plan
• How to write a business plan step-by-step

What is an interior design business plan?

An interior design business plan is a written document detailing what your business is all about, what you’d like to achieve and how. It’s an outline and guide of what your business offers, your operations and financial plan, your business goals and what you plan to do to accomplish them. No two interior design businesses or plans are alike—and that’s a great thing! Your interior design business plan will be entirely unique to you, your particular business market, specialities and what you desire to achieve. 

Why are interior design business plans important?

Writing an interior design business plan is fundamental to creating a successful interior design business, or for revising the strategy and direction of your current business. It’s said that a dream without a goal is just a wish—and the same goes for your interior design business plan. “Generally speaking, creatives—specifically, interior designers—are very good at designing but don’t know how to run a business,” says designer Ann Ueno. “So their businesses fail within the first to three years, or they’re not profitable.” A good business plan will help distinguish the strengths of your business and identify the potential pitfalls of certain decisions. Your plan will also help you know how you stand apart from your competitors and your strategy to compete in the market. 

Not having a business plan can be a recipe for failure in your interior design business. External audiences—such as a potential business partner, or bank if you’ll be securing a loan—will want to review your business plan, so it’s important that you have one firmly in place. “I definitely believe the old Henry Ford adage of ‘Failing to plan is planning to fail,’” says Deana Duffek of Duffek Design & Development. Without a plan, you can easily lose focus, time and money by investing in the wrong areas without thinking them through, or miss out on opportunities when they arise. Your interior design business plan helps you stay on track with your vision, goals and how you will achieve them, so you’ll always know where you’re headed.

Components of an interior design business plan

Now that you know what an interior design business plan is and why it’s important, the next step in how to write an interior design business plan is knowing exactly what you need to include in your plan. This section will explain the essential components of your business plan and the necessary information that should be included in each one. While you may have additional areas you might need to incorporate that pertain to your particular business, the below are a great place to start and are fundamental for any business plan.

Executive summary

Your executive summary will give an overview of what your interior design business is about and how it will be successful. Here, you can include your mission statement, which describes the purpose and overarching goal of your business: what’s driving you to do what you do in serving your clients? When writing your interior design business plan, your executive summary will also include a brief description of your services. Do you offer commercial or residential design? Restoration or consultancy services? Be specific, but not overly detailed just yet. Lastly, you’ll also include basic information about your company’s ownership, the number of employees and types of roles you employ, your location, and high-level financial information.

Company overview

The company overview is where you’ll start to provide more detailed information about your interior design business. What are the interior design needs your business will address? What types of clients will you serve? What are the strengths of your business that help give you a competitive advantage in your particular market? Your company overview is where you can share all about “who” you are and what makes your company great.

When you know the strengths and focus of your interior design business, it’s easier to know what types of services you’ll be offering. The services section is where you really get down to brass tacks describing exactly what you’ll be selling and providing to your clients.

Market analysis

Your interior design business plan needs to outline where it stands in the market, which will require some research and analysis. This section will include the latest information and trends about your industry, your target market, and who your competition is in your area, so you know how to make your business stand out.

Customer analysis

Your customer is unique to your business, the services you offer, and where your business is located. When writing your interior design business plan, get creative with this section when imaging your ideal customer. Who are they and what are their needs and pain points? How much do they earn and what are they likely to spend? Knowing your customer is essential to the success of your business, so be as detailed as possible with your customer analysis.

Marketing plan

When you know who your interior design customer is, you’re able to target them more precisely in the market. Take the knowledge you gained from your customer analysis and use it for your marketing plan. You’ll also want to share about the strengths and services you want to highlight in your marketing when writing your interior design business plan.

Operations plan

The operations plan section of your business plan will describe the physical operation needs of your interior design business and how you will keep your business successfully in motion. What is your physical location? What kind of equipment does your business use? What production systems, workflows and quality checks will you have in place? How many employees do you need to grow? Here you’ll also include information about your inventory needs for design materials and samples, as well as details about your suppliers.

Management plan

Your management plan talks about the people behind your business. Who runs the company? Who is on your management team and staff? You’ll also want to include the strengths of key players in your management team and company. If you’re a sole proprietor, then you can simply describe who you are, your background and the roles you’ll be playing in your business.

Financial plan

Your financial plan will be an important component when writing a business plan for interior design. Here’s where you’ll want to add as much detail as possible about your current financial picture, including financial statements and balance sheets, as well as future forecast projections.

Lastly, the appendix of your business plan for interior design will include documents to support the details you provided in your plan. This can include resumes, licenses, credit history, legal documents and more to help support the validity of your plan and back up your credibility.

How to write a business plan for interior design step-by-step

1. Pick a specialty

Narrow down your niche to stand out in the market

There’s a reason why people say “there are riches in niches.” Focusing on a specific niche for your interior design business will help you zero in on your customer and stand out amongst a smaller field of competitors. Here are just a few specialities to consider for your business:

• Residential interior design
• Corporate or commercial interior design
• Hospitality interior design
• Restaurant design
• Sustainable design
• Lighting design
• Kitchen design
• Exhibit design
• Space planning consultant services
• Interior design consultancy
• Color specialist
• Feng shui interior design 
• And many more

2. Define services provided

Know exactly what you’re offering your clients

After you’ve selected your niche, you can now define the interior design services you’d like to provide your clients. Will you be providing designs only or full-service design, supply and installation? Will you focus on designing for certain rooms, such as the kitchen or bath? Will you offer remote and in-person consultations? Other considerations to make when selecting your services include: your particular strengths as a designer, what your clients in the market are desiring, what you’re capable of providing and what will contribute to your bottom line.

3. Determine pricing model

Choose an attractive pricing model for maximum profitability 

Before determining your pricing model, you need to review your local market, current prices and what your competition is charging. From there you can choose from the following options for your pricing model:

• Hourly rate
• Flat fee per project
• By square footage
• Cost plus (where the client pays the net value of furnishings and materials plus your markup) 
• Retail (where the client pays the retail cost for items; your fee is the difference between the net and retail price)

4. Brainstorm marketing strategy

Questions to help define your strategy and target your customer

When forming your marketing strategy for your interior design business plan, go back to your market and customer analysis and ask yourself: who is my customer, what do they want and how can I stand out in the market? Here are a few more key items and questions to consider: 

• How will you reach your customer? Which social media platforms are they using? Which websites do they visit? Is your customer more likely to respond to an email or should you market yourself at tradeshows? 
• What is your marketing message? What does your customer need and what’s going to make them choose you?
• Lastly, you need to include how you’ll be managing your marketing campaigns. Will you be hiring an outside agency for your marketing? Will you be advertising yourself? What budget will you be allocating for marketing? 

Interior designers surveyed by Houzz in 2022 reported that marketing and advertising comprised the second highest expense in starting their own business (second only to technology — more on this below). Knowing this will help you create and financially plan for a solid marketing strategy when writing your interior design business plan.  

5. Brainstorm operations strategy

Know who and how you’ll manage your business

Here are key operations items you’ll need to consider for your interior design business plan: 

• Facilities: Your business will need the right space to facilitate your operation and grow, so make sure to assess the physical needs your business requires now and in the long run. This can include everything from the size and layout of your workspace to the kinds of storage you might need for organizing your interior design materials . 
• Production system: Successful businesses have great systems in place. You’ll want to consider your standard operating procedures, as well as workflows for various aspects of your business (from onboarding a client to completing and invoicing for a project ). 
• Quality management: Managing the quality of your services is key to your business and reputation, so you need to put checks in place to make sure you’re continually reviewing your performance. 
• Technology and resources: Assess the technology requirements of your business today and in the future. According to a survey conducted by Houzz in 2022, interior designers reported that technology costs were the No. 1 most expensive part of starting their own business. Today’s leading designers use technology to stand out from the competition, bring designs to life and keep their businesses organized. Every designer should prioritize technology that will help provide the best client experience, and thinking through those tech needs early on can help you budget for those expenses. You’ll also want to take into account your human resources and staff you’ll need, suppliers you’ll be working with, and the physical materials required including everything from design samples to office supplies.

6. Set financial goals

Create a plan to achieve your financial objectives

The main financial goal of any business is profitability. In order to be profitable your revenue must exceed your total expenses, so it’s important to keep this as a top financial goal to keep your business sustainable. After profitability, you’ll want to track your profit margins and compare them to your industry average. This will help you see where you may need to trim your expenses in order to maximize profit. 

In the day-to-day operation of your business, healthy cash flow is another objective to maintain. This will help you know how much liquid cash you have to cover your basic operating expenses, or if you’ll need a loan or line of credit to float your business. The majority (63%) of interior designers surveyed by Houzz in 2022 used their own personal savings to get started, but your situation might be different. Learn more about the different ways to fund your interior design business .

When writing your interior design business plan, you’ll also want to consider bigger long-term financial goals you might have, such as expanding your workspace, hiring new employees and what steps you’ll need to take to accommodate this growth in your business.

Now you know how to write a business plan for interior design from start to finish, which will help keep your business on the path to success—now and in the long run. If you’d like to keep reading, check out How to Price Interior Design Services .  

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How To Write a Winning Interior Design Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for interior design businesses who want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every interior design business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Business Plan Template

What is an Interior Design Business Plan?

An interior design business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write an Interior Design Business Plan?

An interior design business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Interior Design Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful interior design business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of an interior design business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your interior design
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your interior design business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your interior design firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen interior design business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of an interior design business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the interior design industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, an interior design business’ customers may include:

• Businesses (office, retail, and hospitality firms)
• Other designers, architects, and homebuilders

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or interior design services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your interior design business via public relations, speaking engagements, or networking.

Operations Plan

This part of your interior design business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for an interior design business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include hitting certain customer targets or partnering with specific retailers or distributors.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific interior design industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Interior Design Business

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Interior Design Business

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup interior design business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Interior Design Business

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your interior design company . It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

A well-written business plan is an essential tool for any interior design business. The tips we’ve provided in this article should help you write a winning business plan for your interior design firm.  

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We have over 550 sample business plan templates . So, make sure the plan is a close match, but don't get hung up on the details.

Your business is unique and will differ from any example or template you come across. So, use this example as a starting point and customize it to your needs.

2. Remember it's just an example

Our sample business plans are examples of what one business owner did. That doesn't make them perfect or require you to cram your business idea to fit the plan structure.

Use the information, financials, and formatting for inspiration. It will speed up and guide the plan writing process.

3. Know why you're writing a business plan

To create a plan that fits your needs , you need to know what you intend to do with it.

Are you planning to use your plan to apply for a loan or pitch to investors? Then it's worth following the format from your chosen sample plan to ensure you cover all necessary information.

But, if you don't plan to share your plan with anyone outside of your business—you likely don't need everything.

More business planning resources

How to Write a Business Plan

Business Plan Template

Simple Business Plan Outline

How to Start a Business With No Money

10 Qualities of a Good Business Plan

Industry Business Planning Guides

How to Write a Business Plan for Investors

How to Create a Business Plan Presentation

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How to Write a Business Plan for Your Interior Design Business

7 ways to create luxury interior design on a limited budget.

• Margot LaScala July 31 2023 . 7 min read

Starting your own interior design business is a special time filled with firsts. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement and forget to iron out the finer details. Writing a business plan is the best first step you can take when it comes to starting your interior design business because in doing so, you’ll force yourself to get specific about your dreams, look at the practicals, and carve out a clear course of action. Your business plan is your roadmap for setting up your business processes, spreading the word about your services, and finding new clients. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Determine Your Niche

You have the opportunity to create the interior design business of your dreams. While the project possibilities are endless, it’s important to define your niche. Defining your niche will set you apart from your competition by making you a specialist in a specific design style, a certain type of space, a particular type of client, or even for designing within a certain budgetary range.

According to Carla Aston, there are many ways to find your niche. "I think it’s important after each project or even consultation, if you do those, to reflect back and make notes of what sparked joy within you." Maybe you love the farmhouse look, traditional homes, or a more sleek and modern style. You might also want to ask yourself who you enjoy working with. Maybe you’ve found that certain types of clients, like young families or single millennials, are consistently a delight for you to collaborate with, or perhaps there’s a certain type of space like kitchens or luxury hotels that you genuinely enjoy designing.

Once you’ve found your niche, it’s important to develop a detailed understanding of who your ideal clients are, the pain points they’re likely facing, and what their desires are, so you can develop a design process that delights them at every touchpoint. This will also help you create a marketing strategy that speaks straight to the hearts of those seeking out your services and positions you as the obvious choice.

"Over time, I've developed budget parameters, personality traits of desired clients, style of design, size of projects, locations where I want to work, etc., that spark joy for me and I've designed my business model to accommodate only those jobs. Remember that saying no to a job that doesn't fit into your model is almost more important than saying yes to one that does,” says Aston.

Step 2: Define Your Services

The next step is to define your services. What services bring you the most joy? Some interior designers love managing projects and coordinating with tradespeople, while others would rather delegate these tasks. Decide on which services you’d like to offer and personally tend to and which you’d rather have someone else handle.

There are so many different types of interior design services you can offer . Design consultations, space planning, furniture selection, art curation, custom window treatments, plumbing, flooring, lighting, installation, and re-designs are just a few. Some services, such as construction and window design, even overlap with architecture. It’s also important to specify which types of spaces your services are for so you can attract projects you enjoy. Commercial, institutional, residential, and office spaces are just some of the spaces to consider.

Next, conduct market research by taking a look at the language your competitors are using and interviewing prospective clients about their desires and pain points. Having this information in your back pocket will help you further define your services and communicate them in a way that speaks straight to your ideal clients.

Step 3: Decide on Your Rate.

There are many questions to consider when it comes to determining your rate. For starters, how much money do you need to make at a minimum to cover your current expenses and meet your income goals? How much money will you need in addition to meet your savings goals and also to live comfortably? Next, ask yourself, in a given amount of time, how many projects can you reasonably accomplish? Will you bill hourly or charge a flat rate per project? Once you’ve decided on each of these factors, establish your rates. It all boils down to the number of projects you can do in a certain amount of time and how much money you’ll need to live comfortably.

And don’t underestimate your expertise. Sharing knowledge is a service in itself, implementing it for people will naturally cost even more. If you charge too low, you’ll give people the impression that your services aren’t as high quality as other designers who might charge more for the same services. No matter what, it’s important that you make a profit.

You can also find creative ways to save money. Develop good relationships with vendors and tradespeople and look for vendors who offer discounts for interior designers. You can also consider upcharging for materials by a certain percentage.

Most importantly, when sharing your rate with your clients, it’s important to communicate your process to them and explain the amount of time that’s involved. Your clients will never understand how much work goes into a single project unless you clearly define the scope and lay out all of the details for them.

Step 4: Develop a Marketing Strategy.

Now, it’s time to get started on your marketing strategy. Where do you want to be in 5 years? Dream big. For example, do you need a certain number of projects by a certain time? Do you want your work to be published in a certain magazine or a certain number of magazines to help build brand awareness and showcase your work? Marketing yourself well will get you there.

The best way to spread the word is by word of mouth. Attend networking events and local interior design shows. Build relationships with local vendors, and hand out business cards and other marketing collateral. When people enjoy working with you and love the quality of your work, they’ll naturally want to tell everyone about your services. This is why it’s important to create the best client experience possible where you delight your clients at every stage of the process, which begins with building a beautiful and consistent brand.

Develop a consistent brand that reflects the personality of your business as well as your niche. You’ll need a logo and a beautifully designed website that matches the quality of your work. If you settle for anything less, you’ll be doing yourself a huge disservice, some might even call it self-sabotage.

Squarespace has stunning website templates that you can use to showcase your interior design work. There’s no need to have a lot of pages on your website—the simpler the better. For optimal results, you’ll need a homepage, about, services, portfolio, and a contact us page with testimonials and beautiful images placed throughout your site. Since interior design is largely visual, hiring a professional photographer is key.

To learn more about branding for interior designers, check out our post Identifying Individuality and Building an Authentic Brand .

And don’t forget to ask your clients for reviews about their experience working with you, and keep all of your reviews on your website. You’ll also want to create a social media presence to provide an online community for your dedicated clients and a platform to attract new ones. You can share your client reviews on social media periodically with an accompanying image or blog post. Have fun with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and PPC ads, and use Canva to easily create stunning social media graphics.

Step 5: Get a Solid Accounting System.

Last but not least, get a solid accounting system to make your life, or your accountant or bookkeeper’s life, easier. Design Manager is an accounting software designed with interior designers in mind. With careful item tracking, in-depth drill downs for each item, interior design specific reporting, and easy anywhere, anytime access, Design Manager can help you save time and money by streamlining your entire interior design business from anywhere in the world.

Once you’ve determined your niche, defined your services, decided on your rate, developed your marketing strategy, and found a solid accounting system, you’re well on your way to starting a successful interior design business. Write everything down so you can periodically refer back to your business plan to keep yourself on track.

Learn more about why Design Manager is the best accounting software for interior designers by checking out our interview with bookkeeper Brad Shark right here .

Angela Sanders, Contributing Author

Topics: Business of Design

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FREE 13+ Interior Design Business Plan Templates in PDF | MS Word

What is interior design? Interior design is the art of decorating and designing the inner parts of a room, house, or building. People who do interior design work are called interior designers. Through their different unique ideas and designs, interior designers are able to make a space aesthetically pleasing and healthy. You may also see business plan templates.

Interior Design Business Plan Template Pdf Word

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Sample Interior Design Business Plan Template

The demand for interior designs has led to the steady popularity in the business industry. There are more interior design businesses in the present and more people are willing to pay for their services to get their spaces beautified. And just like any other businesses, it requires an interior design business plan. We have here business plan templates that you may use as a reference as we get to know what an interior design business plan is.

Printable Sample Interior Business Plan Template

Size: 157 KB

Home Interior Design Business Plan Sample

Size: 12 MB

What Is an Interior Design Business Plan?

An interior design business plan is a written formal document that details everything that there is to know and do about starting a new interior design business or planning for an existing interior design business. The business plan mainly focuses on the preparation and planning of the business before it actually starts to operate.

A well-written business plan is beneficial to the business as it serves as its manual or guide on how the business should be started and managed. It also guides the business to the direction where it is most favorable or the direction that will lead to its success. you may also see  Interior Design Contract Templates

Furniture and Interior Design Business Plan Sample

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Interior Business Plan Template

Size: 98 KB

Free Interior Business Plan Template

Size: 14 KB

Not all businesses end up successful. Although there are some businesses that proper and continue to exist for a very long time or for a lifetime, there are also businesses that end up getting in debt or end up closing.

This is due to the lack of proper planning and preparation which can be easily done with a small business plan . To learn more about business plans you can check out other related articles on our website, like  Sample Marketing Business Plan Templates and  Farm Business Plan Template .

Interior Business Plan Template Sample

Blank Business Plan Template

Size: 226 KB

Business Plan Sample Template

Size: 10 KB

Simple Business Plan Template

Size: 33 KB

Sample Business Plan Template

Size: 30 KB

Startup Business Plan Template

Size: 25 KB

What Are the Essential Elements of Business Plan?

A business plan can be proven effective and useful if it includes all the necessary essential elements that make up a business plan. A business plan is said to be well-written and complete if it includes all these essential elements.

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary is a brief overview of the entire business plan and must be at least one page long. It is the very first part that you will see in a business plan, but since it is a summary of everything about the business plan, it is best to write the executive summary last. It must also be written in a way that will attract or convince readers to read the entire contents of the sample business plan.

2. Company Description

As its name implies, the company description part of your business plan provides detailed information about the company and what it does as a business. This is where you go into details about the products and services that your company or business offers, what types of customers you serve, why customers should do business with you, what advantages you have over your competitors, and many more. You may also see  Interior Design Proposal Templates

3. Market Analysis

If you want to succeed in the industry where your business belongs, you need to have an in-depth understanding of how it works. Included in the market analysis section of your business plan are details about your target market, like their demographics, size, growth rate, etc. You may also like  Business Proposal Templates

4. Competitive Analysis

Every business will always have a competition, and all businesses must observe and analyze their competitors, not to ruin them but to gain a competitive advantage over them and stand out from the rest. It is important that you include this in your business plan and plans your actions or steps ahead so that your business will not get left behind when your business actually starts to operate. You may also see  Retail Business Plan Templates

5. Management & Operations

This is the section of your business plan where you put your organizational chart and identify the key individuals of the business as well as their corresponding roles and responsibilities. This is also where you need to provide details about the organizational structure of the business, ownership information, and the number of employees your business has. You may also see  Project Plan Templates

6. Marketing and Sales

Here you will need to explain how you are going to attract customers and what strategies you will be using to effectively sell the products and services that your business offers. You may also like  Marketing Business Plan Templates

7. Financial Summary

The last part of your business plan is the financial summary. In this section, the financial health and status of your business is provided including income statements, cash flows, and other financial sheets. Businesses that seek funding from investors must have this section written as detailed as possible. It must also be current and accurate as this is a critical part that investors would want to check out to use as basis for making their final decision. You may also see  Construction Business Plan Templates

Having knowledge of the essential elements of a business plan not only helps you further understand what it is but it also guides you with what you need to put and look for in a business plan, whether you are writing one or reviewing one. Other related articles you may find useful include  Business Plan Profit and Loss Template and  Coffee Shop Business Plan Template .

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to start an interior design business in 9 simple steps

• Annabelle Amery
• 12 min read

Get started by: Creating a website →  | Getting a domain →

With a growing demand for talented interior designers, there’s no better time than now to start your own interior design business. If you have a good eye for design and you are able to create beautiful and functional spaces, then you have the potential to be successful in this field.

In this guide, we will take you through the process of launching your own interior design business, from building a business website to understanding the nature of the business and effectively managing it.

What is an interior design business?

An interior design business offers a range of services to clients who seek expert guidance and assistance in designing and decorating their spaces. Services can include space planning, furniture selection, color consultation, lighting design, material sourcing and more.

Interior design businesses can be either residential or commercial. Residential interior designers typically work with homeowners to create spaces that are both stylish and comfortable, while commercial interior designers work with businesses to create spaces that are functional and inviting.

Why start an interior design business?

Running an interior design business comes with its own set of rewards. Not only will you have the freedom to set your schedule and choose projects that you want, but you’ll also be able to work closely with clients and witness their appreciation for your work.

The global interior design market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.3% between 2022 and 2028 , with commercial interior design expected to be the largest segment. It's an exciting journey with endless possibilities.

How to start an interior design business

Ready to get started? Follow these essential steps:

Define your business goals

Choose an interior design style

Build a portfolio

Set up your business

Acquire necessary licenses

Establish a workspace

Define your services and pricing

Develop a network

Market your business

01. Define your business goals

Determine your vision for your interior design business and create a business plan . Clarify your target market, design style and the types of projects you want to undertake. Establishing a clear direction will help you focus your efforts and attract the right clients. Learn more about creating an interior design business plan .

Once you've written your business plan, write a concept statement to outline your vision and goals. In it, include your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)  - the distinct element that sets your interior design business apart from competitors and defines your value proposition in the marketplace. Identifying and articulating your USP will help form the core of your marketing strategy , enabling you to communicate your strengths and advantages to potential clients more effectively. 

02. Choose an interior design style

Selecting a specific interior design style for your business can help you stand out, gain credibility and showcase your expertise. First, define who you're looking to design spaces for — families, young professionals, offices or retail spaces. Then, identify which design style can best suit the types of clients you're aiming to attract. Some of the more popular design styles include: contemporary, minimalist, industrial, eclectic and kid-oriented.

03. Build a portfolio

Create a strong portfolio showcasing your design work and projects. If you're just starting, consider offering pro bono or discounted services to build your portfolio up. Include high-quality photos, descriptions and details of each project to showcase your skills and expertise.

Check out these portfolio website templates on Wix.

04. Set up your business

Register your business and choose a suitable legal structure and business entity , such as a sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC) or corporation . If you’re not sure which one is right for you, consult an attorney or business advisor—your business structure will have big implications on your legal and tax requirements, so you don’t want to make this decision lightly.

05. Acquire necessary licenses

Besides registering your business, be sure to understand the necessary permits and licenses to ensure that your interior design business complies with legal regulations. The specific licenses required can vary by state, so be sure to conduct thorough research into state regulations in order to gain the most accurate information. You should also look into acquiring a tax ID and possibly a reseller's permit.

06. Establish a workspace

Determine whether you'll work from a home office or rent a dedicated workspace. Set up a functional and inspiring workspace that reflects your design style and provides a conducive environment for creativity and productivity.

07. Define your services and pricing

Decide on the services you will offer—which may include interior design consultations, full-service design, space planning and/or project management. Establish transparent pricing structures for each service based on your expertise, market rates and project requirements. Additionally, implement a variety of payment methods  on your business website to create a more user-friendly experience for your clients.

08. Develop a network

Build relationships with suppliers, contractors, architects, real estate agents and other professionals in the industry. Networking can open the door to referrals and extra resources. Attend industry events, join professional associations and engage with online design communities to expand your network.

Some tips for building a professional network in the interior design industry include:

Intern or shadow credible designers to learn the ropes of the business

Collaborate with other designers on projects or offering referrals for clients outside of your area of expertise

Attend trade shows, home expos and design fairs to connect with suppliers, manufacturers and potential clients

Build relationships with local media outlets, such as newspapers or magazines, to showcase your work and expertise

Join local and national interior design associations to attend events, conferences and workshops

Participate in online forums and social media groups for interior designers to connect with peers and share knowledge

09. Market your business

Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to promote your interior design business. Create a professional website using platforms like Wix to showcase your portfolio, services and client testimonials. Utilize SEO best practices, social media platforms, online directories and traditional marketing channels to raise awareness about your business and increase online visibility.

Thinking of starting another type of business? Check out some of these creative service business ideas  to help get you started.

Types of interior design services

Deciding which services to offer as an interior designer requires careful consideration of several factors, both internal and external, to find the sweet spot between your passion, skills and market demand. Here's a breakdown of common interior design services:

Full-service design:  This comprehensive approach involves the entire design process, from initial consultations and space planning to furniture selection, procurement and final installation. As a full-service designer, you would act as your client's project manager, overseeing every aspect and ensuring a seamless, cohesive outcome.

Partial design:  This option caters to specific needs within your client's project. You would offer help with space planning, color palettes, furniture selection or even just sourcing specific pieces. The level of involvement can be customized to your client's comfort level and budget.

Hourly consultation:  Sometimes, your client just needs expert advice or a fresh perspective. Hourly consultations offer focused guidance on specific design dilemmas, helping your client make informed decisions about furniture layout, paint colors or overall style direction.

E-design:  This growing trend utilizes online platforms for virtual consultations and design services. E-designers provide recommendations, mood boards and shopping lists, offering a budget-friendly alternative to traditional in-person services.

Additional specialized services:

Kitchen and bath design: Requires specialized knowledge and expertise to navigate plumbing, electrical and ventilation considerations.

Commercial interior design: Tailored to businesses, focusing on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing workspaces.

Sustainable design: Incorporates eco-friendly materials and practices for environmentally conscious home design.

Senior living design: Addresses the specific needs and safety considerations of older adults.

Lighting design:  Focuses on crafting lighting designs that naturally blend into an interior space, enhancing both its ambiance and functionality.

Flooring design:  Specializes in selecting and installing various flooring materials, from hardwood floors to carpets, in order to complement the aesthetic and practical needs of an interior.

Finding the right services to offer as an interior designer involves introspection and research. Ask yourself what excites you and where your skills lie. Then, analyze your target market and competitor landscape to discover gaps you can fill profitably. Start small, be adaptable and let your expertise and market feedback guide your service evolution. This way, you'll create a fulfilling career aligned with your passion and the market's needs.

How to manage an interior design business effectively

Half the challenge of running any business is making sure that it runs smoothly. Pay attention to these areas of your business and develop the right strategy for each:

Client communication: Establish clear communication channels with your clients from the beginning. Regularly update them on the progress of their projects and address any concerns. Transparency is key here, don’t keep your clients in the dark.

Project management: Develop effective project management systems to track project timelines, deliverables and budgets. Utilize project management software or tools to streamline communication and collaboration with clients and team members.

Financial management: Implement sound financial management practices, including tracking expenses, booking services  with proper payment methods, invoicing clients and managing cash flow. Consider using accounting software or hiring an accountant to ensure accurate record-keeping and financial reporting. You’ll also need to consider how to raise money for your business if you cannot self-fund it.

Collaboration with contractors and suppliers: Maintain strong relationships with contractors, suppliers and other industry professionals. Clearly communicate project requirements, timelines and expectations for smooth collaboration and timely delivery of materials and services.

Continuing education: Stay updated with the latest trends, materials and design techniques. Attend workshops, conferences, webinars or online courses to sharpen your skills.

How much does it cost to start an interior design business?

The exact cost to start this type of business will depend on several factors, including whether you plan to work from home or rent a physical space and if you will manage the business by yourself, or intend to hire employees from day one.

When calculating the cost of starting an interior design business you'll need to consider the following expenses:

If you don't have formal education or certification in interior design, you may need to invest in relevant courses or degrees.

Check the requirements for licensing and permits in your area. Costs can vary, and you may need to budget for application fees.

Consider whether you'll need a physical office space. This could be a home office initially to save costs.

Purchase of necessary equipment such as computers, software for design work and other office supplies.

Budget for marketing materials, a website, business cards and other promotional expenses to establish your brand.

Get insurance coverage for your business, including liability insurance, to protect yourself and your clients.

If you plan to hire staff, budget for salaries, benefits, and training.

It's important to create a detailed business plan to estimate these costs accurately. Additionally, you might want to start small and gradually scale up as your business grows. Consider consulting with a financial advisor or a mentor in the interior design industry to get more personalized advice of costs based on your specific circumstances.

Learn more: How to register a business , How to get a business license

How to promote your interior design business

Your business isn’t going to sell itself. To attract potential clients, consider these tips:

Establish your branding: The first order of business when it comes to branding is to learn how to name your business effectively. If you need ideas, a business name generator can be your trusty companion. You’ll also want to design a unique logo with the help of a designer or logo maker . Check out some of these clothing logo ideas for inspiration and create a visual identity that captivates your audience.

Make a website: Develop a visually appealing and user-friendly website using a website builder like Wix . Showcase your portfolio , services and client testimonials. Consider including a blog to share design tips, industry insights and case studies.

Advertise on social media: Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn to showcase your design work. Share high-quality photos, design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your projects.

Collaborate with influencers: Partner with interior design influencers or bloggers who align with your style and target audience. Collaborate on content, offer design tips or provide exclusive discounts to their followers. This helps to increase your brand visibility across a wider audience.

Network with real estate professionals: Build relationships with real estate agents, property developers and home builders who can refer clients to you. Attend industry events, join local business associations and offer your expertise for design consultations or staging services.

Get client referrals and testimonials: Encourage satisfied clients to refer your services to their friends, family and colleagues. Offer incentives or discounts for successful referrals. Collect testimonials from happy clients and feature them on your website or social channels to build credibility.

Learn how to make an interior design website .

How profitable is an interior design business?

The profitability of an interior design business can vary based on several factors, including your specific business model, target market, location and the effectiveness of your marketing and business management. When calculating the potential profitability of your business it's worth considering the following:

The size and type of your client base will significantly impact profitability. High-end residential clients or commercial projects can be more lucrative but competition may also be more intense for them.

The demand for interior design services in your area can influence your profitability. In regions with a thriving real estate market or a strong demand for renovation and design services, there may be more opportunities for a profitable business.

Specializing in a niche within the interior design industry, such as eco-friendly design, hospitality design, or historic restoration, can set you apart and potentially lead to higher client fees.

Your fee structure and pricing strategy will play a crucial role in your path to profitability. Some designers charge a flat fee, while others work on an hourly basis or a percentage of the project cost. Ensure your fees cover both your design services and any related expenses.

Managing overhead costs is important. Keep an eye on expenses related to office space, utilities, staff salaries and other operational costs.

Building strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and other professionals in the industry can lead to better deals, discounts and more efficient project execution, positively impacting profitability.

Being adaptable to industry trends and changes can ensure your services remain relevant and in demand.

Examples of interior design businesses on Wix

Check out these interior design businesses for a drop of creative inspiration.

Founded by Eitan Cohen, Studio ETN is rooted in the belief that every client's desires and needs must be planted in the heart of the project. The studio has mastered urban spaces with the right usage of light, natural materials and functional design all curated with thoughtful consideration towards a space in its natural form.

Farah A Interiors

Farah A Interiors knows that the smallest details can make the biggest impact. Since 2015, Farah A Interiors has been helping homeowners in the Dallas-Fort Worth area revamp their spaces, whether they’re looking for a greener outdoor space or a more luxurious bathroom.

Michelle Scarola Interiors

Since 2017, Michelle Scarola Interiors has offered everything from full gut renovations to room decor refreshes. Founder Michelle Scarola is praised for her creativity and resourcefulness, helping many of her past clients successfully save (and wisely spend) their money.

For more inspiration, you can check out these service business examples to help get your creative juices flowing.

Benefits of starting an interior design business

In summary, if you’re looking to start a business in interior design, you can look forward to the following benefits.

Creative freedom: As the owner of an interior design business, you have the freedom to design spaces according to your creative vision. You can experiment with different styles, materials and concepts, offering unique and personalized design solutions to your clients.

Professional growth: The interior design industry is dynamic and ever-evolving. Starting your own business allows you to continually learn and grow as a designer. With each new project, you gain valuable experience, expand your portfolio and refine your skills.

Financial opportunities: The interior design industry presents various financial opportunities. You can charge for design services, consultations, project management and also earn commissions through product sales or partnerships with suppliers. As your reputation grows, you can attract higher-profile clients and charge premium fees.

Diverse clientele: Interior design encompasses a wide range of spaces: residential, commercial, hospitality, retail and more. This diversity offers the opportunity to work on different types of projects and collaborate with clients from various industries, expanding your knowledge and network.

Challenges of running an interior design business

While starting an interior design business has its advantages, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. These include:

Establishing a client base: Building a client base and attracting new clients can be challenging, especially when you’re just getting started. It requires effective marketing and networking strategies to showcase your skills and gain trust in the industry.

Managing finances: Proper financial management is crucial for the success of your business. This includes setting appropriate pricing for your services, tracking expenses, managing cash flow and budgeting for materials and resources.

Handling multiple projects: As your business grows, you may find yourself juggling many projects simultaneously. This requires strong organizational and project management skills to ensure that each project receives proper attention and meets deadlines.

Staying updated with trends: The interior design industry is constantly evolving with new trends, materials and technologies. Many clients will expect you to stay up to date, and keep them informed of the latest trends.

How to start a business in a specific state

If you're eager to launch your interior design business in a particular state, check out these resources to make sure you navigate the waters of state-specific regulations with care:

Start a business in South Carolina

Start a business in Pennsylvania

Start a business in Oregon

Start a business in Tennessee

Start a business in Wisconsin

Start a business in Georgia

Entertaining other pursuits?

If you’re looking to learn about other business types , check out these guides:

How to start an online business

How to start a consulting business

How to start a service business

How to start a fitness business

How to start a fitness clothing line

How to start a makeup line

How to start a candle business

How to start a clothing business

How to start an online boutique

How to start a T-shirt business

How to start a jewelry business

How to start a subscription box business

How to start a beauty business

How to start a trucking business

How to start a coaching business

How to start a homecare business

How to start a plumbing business

How to start a nail business

How to start a handyman business

How to start a marketing business

How to start a food truck business

How to start a baking business

How to start a laundromat business

How to start a wedding business

How to start a hotel business

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Plan Templates

11+ interior design business plan templates – pdf, word.

People, by nature, tend to be creative in what they do, but never more so when it comes to making their personal spaces not only comfortable inside but a joy to behold for any guest that would have the pleasure to visit their homes, building, or apartment. You may also see Interior Design Plan Templates plan Templates .

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Interior Design Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Interior Design Business Plan Template

If you want to start an Interior Design business or expand your current Interior Design business, you need a business plan.

The following Interior Design business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning Interior Design business plan.

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Below are links to each of the key sections of an example interior design business plan. Once you create your plan, download it to PDF to show banks and investors.

Interior Design Business Plan Home I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

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Interior Design Business Plan Sample PDF | Interior Decoration Business Plan PDF

How to Start a Interior Design Business - Interior Design Business Plan PDF

Are you considering starting a Interior Design Business and are in need of an Interior design business plan PDF? if yes, you'll find this free book to be extremely helpful.

This is a practical guide that will walk you step by step through all the essentials of starting your business. The book is packed with guides, worksheets and checklists. These strategies are absolutely crucial to your business' success yet are simple and easy to apply.

Don’t Start a New Interior Design Business Unless You Watch This Video First!

Checklist for Starting a Business: Essential Ingredients for Success

If you are thinking about going into business, it is imperative that you watch this video first! it will take you by the hand and walk you through each and every phase of starting a business. It features all the essential aspects you must consider BEFORE you start a business. This will allow you to predict problems before they happen and keep you from losing your shirt on dog business ideas. Ignore it at your own peril!

Here’s a Valuable Free Gift for You This is a high quality, full blown business plan template complete with detailed instructions and all related spreadsheets. You can download it to your PC and easily prepare a professional business plan for your business. Click Here! To get your free business plan template

The Single Most Important Ingredient for Business Success

The first and most important thing you need to acquire in order to succeed in a small business is... knowledge.

Sounds exaggerated? Listen to this...

According to research conducted by Dun & Bradstreet, 90% of all small business failures can be traced to poor management resulting from lack of knowledge.

This is backed up by my own personal observations. In my 31 years as a business coach and consultant to small businesses, I've seen practically dozens of small business owners go under and lose their businesses -- not because they weren't talented or smart enough -- but because they were trying to re-invent the wheel rather than rely on proven, tested methods that work.

Conclusion: if you are really serious about succeeding in a business... If you want to avoid the common traps and mistakes... it is absolutely imperative that you acquire the right knowledge.

"Why Invent Mediocrity, When You Can Copy Genius?"

That's an excellent quote I picked up from a fellow business owner a few years back. What this means is that you should see what is working and try to duplicate it. Why go through all the trouble of inventing something new, that you don't even know will ever work, when you can easily learn from and duplicate something that has been a proven success?

[ Note: One of the BIGGEST mistakes almost all new businesses make is that they WASTE tons of valuable time, energy and money on trying to create something "new", that has never been tested or proven... only to find out later that it was a total loss. Don't make the same mistake! ]

Hi! My name is Meir. I'm the founder and president of BizMove.com, a successful Internet based information business. I'm also the author of numerous books, mostly in the area of small business management.

I've been involved in small business for the past 31 years of my life, as a business coach, manager of a Interior Design firm, a seminar leader and as the owner of five successful businesses.

During my career as a business coach and consultant I've helped dozens of business owners start their businesses, market, expand, get out of troubles, sell their businesses and do practically every other small business activity you can think of. You see, I have been there .... done it ... and bought the Small Business t-shirt! -- This free book contains techniques and strategies I've learned during my 31 year small business career.

Here's what you'll discover in the 'How to Start a Interior Design Business' book:

Success Tip: Setting Goals

Good management is the key to success and good management starts with setting goals. Set goals for yourself for the accomplishment of the many tasks necessary in starting and managing your business successfully. Be specific. Write down the goals in measurable terms of performance. Break major goals down into sub-goals, showing what you expect to achieve in the next two to three months, the next six months, the next year, and the next five years. Beside each goal and sub-goal place a specific date showing when it is to be achieved.

Plan the action you must take to attain the goals. While the effort required to reach each sub-goal should be great enough to challenge you, it should not be so great or unreasonable as to discourage you. Do not plan to reach too many goals all at one time.

Establish priorities. Plan in advance how to measure results so you can know exactly how well you are doing. This is what is meant by "measurable" goals. If you can’t keep score as you go along you are likely to lose motivation. Re-work your plan of action to allow for obstacles which may stand in your way. Try to foresee obstacles and plan ways to avert or minimize them.

Click here! to download your Interior Design Business plan sample PDF book for free

Here're other free books in the "how to start a business" series that may interest you:

Here's a Sample 'Executive Summary' for a Interior Design Business plan :

[Company Name]is led by Owner, [Name], a designer veteran with over 20 years experience in the residential home design industry. [Company Name] was established in 1987 in Jacksonville, Florida and offers custom home and small office design plans to clients throughout the U.S. These designs range from 600 to 12,000 square feet. [Name]has considerable experience in running an effective business and has an outstanding reputation. Based on the detailed financial projections, [Company Name]'s future sales for 2010, 2011 and 2012 are expected to be $255,450, $263,114 and $271,007, respectively. The focus of this business plan is to put forth objectives to purchase a business office, to hire employees, to advertise, to expand the business and update design software and machines. [Company Name] is ready to elevate to the next step. The Company is seeking $110,000 in grant funding.

1.1 Objectives

1. To purchase a business office 2. To hire employees 3. To advertise 4. To expand business 5. Update software and update machines

1.2 Mission

The mission of [Company Name]is to design the clients "dream home" in a timely, economical and professional manner.

1.3 Keys to Success

[Company Name]'s keys to success would include:

• Provide professional quality
• Guarantee client satisfaction
• Maintain existing clients to refer future business

[Company Name]is a home design company that was established in 1987. [Name] is the owner of the business, which is located at her residence at [Address]. [Name]has over 20 years experience in the residential home design industry. [Company Name] designs includes: custom home plans, small office buildings and over 3,000 stock plans in the north east Jacksonville area and surrounding counties. The designs range from 600 to 12,000 square feet.　

2.1 Company Ownership

[Company Name]is an "S" Corporation. The owner is [Name]. 

2.2 Company History

Sales for 2007, 2008, and 2009 were $178,092, $75,182, and $28,659, respectively. Earnings for this period were ($1,020), ($39,962), and $10,513, respectively.

The Past Financial Performance shows that we have had a decline in sales; however, our earnings had a healthy growth.

Table: Past Performance

3.0 Services

[Company Name] provides custom home designs services throughout the Jacksonville area. These superior services include:

• customized additions of any style or size
• designing homes of any size , style, or location

How to Differentiate a Product or service

When potential customers are shopping around, how can your products or services stand out? Try these top 10 tips to increase your sales.

1. Begin by differentiating your services or products by who you and your company are.

What differentiates you? More training, more experience, better methods, a better team? Come up with your key points.

2. If people can buy a similar product or service for less, be ready to overcome that obstacle.

Agree with the potential customer that they can buy for less but show them that they may be comparing apples to oranges.

3. Sell based on value.

Describe what they will get from your product or service. Use the "feel, felt and found" method. Here's an example: "My coaching service provides new approaches for you so that you'll make new discoveries, and see new answers, so that you will feel in charge of your business and your life".

4. Stress the quality of your product or service.

Point out what you are providing for the same investment as the competitor.

5. Talk about dependability.

How long have you been in business? What's your experience or background? How about testimonials and benefits?

6. Have some advantages that differentiate you.

What can you provide that others don't? Come up with something special or exclusive. Ask your customers what they might suggest.

7. Give outstanding follow-up services.

Frequently, customers complain that after the sale, there is no follow-up. Differentiate yourself by providing a unique follow-up service. That alone will be a refreshing change for customers!

8. Offer a money back guarantee.

Great point for differentiation.

9. Take credit cards if most of your competitors don't.

10. Target a niche that your competitor doesn't sell to.

Want to be different - just sell to people that no one else has marketed to... it takes a bit of research but can really pay off!

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Interior Design Business Plan Template

Interior design marketing plan.

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For an interior design business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : in the product section you should reiterate the type of interior design that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to residential interior design, will you offer services such as furniture or decor resale?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your interior design. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your interior design firm located next to an architect, or home decor store, etc. Discuss how your location might provide a steady stream of customers.

Promotions : the final part of your interior design marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Making your interior design’s front store extra appealing to attract passing customers
• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local bloggers and websites
• Social media marketing
• Pay per click advertising
• Partnerships with local organizations (e.g., architects, home goods retailers)
• Local radio advertising
• Banner ads at local venues

INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS PLAN OUTLINE

• Interior Design Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan
• 10. Appendix
• Interior Design Business Plan Summary

Start Your Interior Design Plan Here

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